Zevachim 46: Six Intentions, Whose Words Might Invalidate the Sacrifice?

After describing further possible interpretations of problem cases, we are introduced to a new Mishna.  It teaches that sacrifices must be brought with our attention on six different intentions:

• zevach: the intention must be to sacrifice what has been brought in particular
• zoveiach: the intention must be for the owner of the sacrifice only
• HaShem: the intention must be based on G-d as the receiver of the sacrifice
• ishim: the intention must be to sacrifice the animal on the altar
• reiach: the intention must be to bring the sacrifice in a way that will raise its scent
• nichoach: the intention must be to fulfill what G-d has asked of us

Further, a sin-offering or a guilt-offering must be brought with a specific transgression in one's thoughts.

The Gemara teaches us that Rabbi Yosei prioritizes the intentions of the person who is preforming the service.  If the owner is someone different, s/he need not think of any of these ideas because these are rabbinic and not Torah-derived.  Rashi says that the Sages believed intention did not matter in such cases because a misstatement could invalidate the sacrifice.  Steinsaltz teaches us about Rav Avraham Chayyim Shor's opinion: only the priests are implicated as they bring the sacrifices and they would invalidate another person's offering if they make incorrect statements.  Rambam suggests that the owner must have these six issues in his/her head, and Rabbi Yosei asserts that we should not consider the owner at all but instead the kohen's thoughts for he is performing the service.