Leviticus 3:7

Sheep were smaller, easier to raise, and less expensive than cattle. Besides the exceptions mentioned in these verses, people offered sheep as sacrifices in the same way as cattle.

The peace offering (called shelem in Hebrew) showed worship through fellowship with the Lord and others. The word comes from the same root as shalom, which means wholeness, well-being, harmony, and peace.

Shalom is more than just ending conflict between God and the worshiper. It means a bond of harmonious fellowship. The peace offering was a shared meal celebrating fellowship with God and others (compare Exodus 18:12; 24:9–11; 1 Samuel 9:15–24). They could offer it as thanks (Leviticus 7:12–15), as a voluntary offering, or to fulfill a vow (7:16–18; 22:21).

Peace offerings often came after whole burnt offerings (for example, 1 Kings 9:25). This showed that fellowship with God follows atonement. When we experience atonement through Christ, we can be at peace with God and each other (see Acts 2:42; 10:36; Romans 5:1; 1 Corinthians 10:16; 11:17–34; 2 Corinthians 5:18–21).