Numbers 28:11

At the beginning of every month, you are to present to the LORD a burnt offering of two young bulls, one ram, and seven male lambs a year old, all unblemished,

Study Bible

On the first of every month
The Hebrew phrase here, "בְּרֹאשׁ חֹדֶשׁ" (b'rosh chodesh), refers to the beginning of the lunar month, which was marked by the new moon. In ancient Israel, the new moon was a significant time for worship and offerings, symbolizing renewal and a fresh start. This practice underscores the importance of regular, cyclical worship and dedication to God, reminding the Israelites of His continual presence and sovereignty over time.

you are to present to the LORD
The act of presenting offerings to the LORD, "תַּקְרִיבוּ עֹלָה לַיהוָה" (takrivu olah l'YHWH), emphasizes the personal and communal responsibility of the Israelites to maintain their covenant relationship with God. The offerings were not merely ritualistic but were acts of devotion and acknowledgment of God's provision and holiness. This phrase highlights the importance of intentionality in worship, where offerings are given with a heart of reverence and gratitude.

a burnt offering
The term "עֹלָה" (olah) refers to a burnt offering, which was completely consumed by fire on the altar. This type of offering symbolizes total dedication and surrender to God, as nothing was held back. The burnt offering was a powerful expression of worship, signifying the worshiper's desire to be wholly devoted to the LORD, reflecting the call for believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1).

of two young bulls
The "פָּרִים" (parim), or young bulls, were considered valuable and significant offerings due to their size and strength. Offering two young bulls indicates the importance and solemnity of the occasion. Bulls were often associated with leadership and strength, symbolizing the community's acknowledgment of God's power and authority.

one ram
The "אַיִל" (ayil), or ram, was another significant animal in sacrificial practices. Rams were often used in consecration ceremonies and were symbolic of leadership and substitution. The inclusion of a ram in the offering highlights the theme of atonement and dedication, pointing to the need for a mediator between God and His people.

and seven male lambs a year old
The "שִׁבְעָה כְבָשִׂים" (shiv'ah k'vasim), or seven male lambs, represent completeness and perfection in biblical numerology. Lambs, being young and pure, symbolize innocence and purity. The number seven, often associated with divine perfection, underscores the completeness of the offering and the desire for a perfect relationship with God.

all unblemished
The requirement for the offerings to be "תְּמִימִם" (temimim), or unblemished, signifies the need for purity and perfection in what is offered to God. This reflects God's holiness and the call for His people to strive for holiness in their lives. The unblemished nature of the sacrifices points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who was without sin, fulfilling the law's requirements perfectly.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who commands the offerings and is the recipient of worship.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, through whom God gives these instructions.

3. Israelites
The people of God, who are to carry out these offerings as part of their covenant relationship with Yahweh.

4. The Tabernacle
The place where these offerings are to be made, serving as the dwelling place of God among His people.

5. New Moon (Rosh Chodesh)
The first day of each month in the Hebrew calendar, marked by specific offerings and a time of renewal and dedication.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Regular Worship
The monthly offerings remind us of the importance of regular, intentional worship and dedication to God. Just as the Israelites had a structured time to present offerings, we too should have regular times of worship and reflection.

Holiness and Purity
The requirement for offerings to be "without blemish" underscores the holiness and purity God desires. In our lives, we are called to present ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.

Renewal and New Beginnings
The new moon offerings symbolize renewal and new beginnings. Each month, we have the opportunity to recommit ourselves to God, seeking His guidance and strength for the days ahead.

Community and Corporate Worship
These offerings were a communal activity, reminding us of the importance of gathering together as a body of believers to worship and support one another in our faith journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of regular offerings in Numbers 28:11 apply to our modern-day practice of worship and devotion?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our "offerings" to God—our time, talents, and resources—are "without blemish"?

3. How can the idea of renewal at the start of each month inspire us to seek new beginnings in our spiritual lives?

4. What role does community play in our worship practices, and how can we foster a sense of corporate worship in our church or small group?

5. How do the offerings and festivals in the Old Testament point us to the work and person of Jesus Christ, as discussed in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
This chapter outlines various feasts and offerings, providing a broader context for the monthly offerings described in Numbers 28:11.

Psalm 81
This psalm references the blowing of the trumpet at the new moon, connecting the practice of monthly offerings with worship and celebration.

Colossians 2
Paul discusses the shadow of things to come, including festivals and new moons, pointing to their fulfillment in Christ.