The First Mention Principle is that principle by which God indicates in the first mention of a subject, the truth with which that subject stands connected in the mind of God. Examining the passages in Genesis and Exodus that deal with sacrifices yield the following principles.

1. The Skin Principle (Gen 3)
- Covering provided
- Character of the sacrifice transferred to the beneficiary

2. The Selection Principle (Gen 4)
- Chief sacrifice to be given to God and costly

3. The Sweet Savour Principle (Gen 8)
- Contentment of God upon the offering

4. The Splitting of Victims Principle (Gen 15)
- Covenant established by the sacrifice

5. The Substitution Principle (Gen 22)
- Change of victim

6. The Sharing of Meal Principle (Gen 31)
- Communion effected based on the offering

7. The Shedding/Sprinkling of Blood Principle (Exo 12, 24)
- Consecration and confirmation of the offerers

DG