To offer only animals which are at least eight days old

This mitzvah establishes the requirement that no animal may be offered on the Mizbeach until it is eight days old. During its first week, an animal is considered incomplete and too fragile for consecration. From the eighth day onward, it reaches a state of wholeness and is acceptable for korbanot.

Rambam explains that this mitzvah reflects Hashem’s compassion, ensuring that an animal has time to strengthen before being sanctified. Sefer HaChinuch teaches that the number eight symbolizes covenant and renewal — just as circumcision is on the eighth day, so too offerings must come from animals that have entered a new stage of life.

The Talmud derives from this mitzvah broader principles about maturity and readiness in service. Ramban emphasizes that offerings must reflect perfection in both body and timing, teaching that true sanctity emerges only when creation reaches completion.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Hilchot Issurei Mizbeach 2:5): Rules that no animal younger than eight days may be brought as an offering.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 294): Explains that the symbolism of “eight” reflects renewal, covenant, and completeness.
• Rashi (Lev. 22:27): Notes that the Torah requires an animal to pass a full seven-day cycle before being suitable for sacrifice.
• Talmud (Shabbat 135b; Chullin 38b): Derives the principle that animals, like humans, require eight days to be considered whole for sacred use.
• Ramban: Teaches that Hashem desires completeness; offering a newborn animal would symbolize deficiency.