The answer is: Meat and grain

Lev 7:30, 23:17 - The wave offering was part of the peace offerings given to God.

The wave offering, an intriguing aspect of ancient Israelite worship, includes meat and grain but embodies more than just physical elements. To grasp its significance, let's consider how it interfaces with notions of gratitude and communal sharing in a society deeply tied together. When the Israelites presented a wave offering, they weren't just giving to God; they were creating space to acknowledge God’s provision and generosity.

In Leviticus, these offerings often come from animals and do indeed include fine flour baked into unleavened bread (which has a fascinating tie to the homespun nature of their culture!). Even the act of 'waving'—or lifting—these offerings symbolized a giving away of oneself to God. It made participants aware of what they had as gifts from divine grace—not only for themselves but for others. The offerings were shared in meals that mingled worshippers, priests, and even their family members, emphasizing community engagement and sustenance parallels.

Fun trivia: Did you know that the rituals carried echoes similar to other cultural practices of the time? Many ancient Near Eastern societies practiced similar offerings that reflected a relationship with the divine, showcasing how intertwined human worship and daily-life customs were during this period.

And in a remarkable twist, wave offerings can echo later Christian traditions shared at the Last Supper, revealing a continuity of fellowship and thanksgiving that transcends time. So, even within Levites' specific rituals, we glimpse an ever-engaging dialogue with the divine—and our roles within a community.