Numbers 28:19

Present to the LORD an offering made by fire, a burnt offering of two young bulls, one ram, and seven male lambs a year old, all unblemished.

Study Bible

You are to present
This phrase indicates a command, not a suggestion, emphasizing the importance of obedience in worship. The Hebrew root for "present" is "qarab," which means to draw near or approach. This reflects the idea that offerings are a means of drawing near to God, highlighting the relational aspect of worship. In the historical context, presenting offerings was a central part of Israelite worship, symbolizing devotion and reverence.

an offering made by fire
The Hebrew term "ishsheh" refers to offerings consumed by fire, symbolizing purification and the ascent of the offering to God. Fire in the Bible often represents God's presence and holiness. The act of burning the offering signifies the complete surrender and dedication of the worshiper to God, as the smoke rises to heaven.

to the LORD
The use of "LORD" in all capitals indicates the Hebrew name "YHWH," the covenant name of God. This emphasizes the personal relationship between God and Israel. The offerings are not just ritualistic acts but are directed to a personal, covenant-keeping God who desires a relationship with His people.

a burnt offering
The Hebrew word "olah" means "that which goes up," referring to the smoke rising to God. Burnt offerings were entirely consumed on the altar, symbolizing total dedication and atonement. This offering foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself completely for the atonement of sin.

of two young bulls
Bulls were valuable animals, symbolizing strength and wealth. Offering two young bulls indicates the significance and costliness of the sacrifice. In the ancient Near Eastern context, bulls were often associated with leadership and power, underscoring the importance of offering the best to God.

one ram
Rams were also significant in sacrificial rituals, often representing substitutionary atonement. The ram's inclusion in the offering highlights the completeness and variety of the sacrifice, ensuring that it covers all aspects of atonement and dedication.

and seven male lambs a year old
The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection. Offering seven lambs signifies the completeness of the sacrifice. Lambs, being gentle and innocent, are a poignant symbol of purity and innocence, pointing to Christ, the Lamb of God.

all unblemished
The requirement for the animals to be unblemished underscores the need for purity and perfection in offerings to God. This reflects God's holiness and the standard of perfection required for atonement. It also points to Jesus Christ, the sinless and perfect sacrifice for humanity's sins.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who receives and communicates God's laws and instructions.

3. Israelites
The people of God, who are commanded to follow these sacrificial laws.

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

5. Feast of Unleavened Bread
The context of this offering, a significant event in the Jewish calendar commemorating the Exodus from Egypt.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites were required to follow God's specific instructions for offerings. This teaches us the importance of obedience to God's commands in our lives.

Holiness and Perfection
The requirement for unblemished animals symbolizes the holiness and perfection God desires. In our lives, we are called to pursue holiness and offer our best to God.

Sacrifice and Worship
Sacrifices were central to Israel's worship. Today, our worship involves offering our lives as living sacrifices, as described in Romans 12:1.

Remembrance and Thanksgiving
The offerings during the Feast of Unleavened Bread were a reminder of God's deliverance. We are encouraged to remember and give thanks for God's work in our lives.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The sacrificial system points to Jesus Christ, the ultimate unblemished sacrifice. Understanding this helps us appreciate the depth of Christ's sacrifice for our sins.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for unblemished animals in Numbers 28:19 reflect God's nature and expectations for His people?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of offering our best to God in our daily lives?

3. How does the Feast of Unleavened Bread connect to the concept of remembrance and thanksgiving in our Christian walk?

4. What are some practical ways we can live as "living sacrifices" in light of Romans 12:1?

5. How does understanding the sacrificial system in the Old Testament enhance our appreciation of Jesus' sacrifice as described in Hebrews 10?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
Provides further details on the Feast of Unleavened Bread and its significance.

Exodus 12
Describes the original Passover event, which the Feast of Unleavened Bread commemorates.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system in Jesus Christ, the perfect sacrifice.