Numbers 28:6

This is a regular burnt offering established at Mount Sinai as a pleasing aroma, an offering made by fire to the LORD.

Study Bible

This is a regular burnt offering
The phrase "regular burnt offering" refers to the continual or daily sacrifices that were instituted by God for the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "regular" is "תָּמִיד" (tamid), which means perpetual or continual. This indicates the ongoing nature of the offering, symbolizing the constant need for atonement and dedication to God. The "burnt offering" (Hebrew: "עֹלָה" - olah) was entirely consumed by fire, representing total surrender and devotion to God. It served as a daily reminder of the Israelites' covenant relationship with God and their need for purification.

established at Mount Sinai
The establishment of the burnt offering at Mount Sinai underscores the significance of the covenantal laws given to Moses. Mount Sinai is a pivotal location in biblical history, where God revealed Himself and delivered the Ten Commandments. The Hebrew root for "established" is "צָוָה" (tzavah), meaning to command or ordain. This highlights the divine authority and intentionality behind the sacrificial system. The offerings were not merely ritualistic but were divinely instituted practices meant to draw the people closer to God and remind them of His holiness and their need for obedience.

as a pleasing aroma
The phrase "pleasing aroma" (Hebrew: "רֵיחַ נִיחוֹחַ" - reyach nichoach) is a metaphorical expression indicating that the offering was acceptable and delightful to God. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the sense of smell was often associated with divine favor. The "pleasing aroma" signifies God's acceptance of the sacrifice and, by extension, the worshiper. It reflects the idea that sincere worship and obedience are delightful to God, emphasizing the relational aspect of the sacrificial system.

an offering made by fire
The term "offering made by fire" (Hebrew: "אִשֶּׁה" - ishsheh) refers to the method of sacrifice, where the offering is consumed by fire on the altar. Fire in the Bible often symbolizes God's presence, purity, and judgment. The use of fire in sacrifices underscores the transformative process of the offering, turning the physical into the spiritual. It also serves as a reminder of God's consuming holiness and the need for purification through sacrifice.

to the LORD
The phrase "to the LORD" (Hebrew: "לַיהוָה" - l'YHWH) indicates the ultimate recipient of the offering. The use of the divine name YHWH emphasizes the personal and covenantal relationship between God and Israel. It is a reminder that the sacrifices were not just religious duties but acts of worship directed to the one true God. This phrase underscores the monotheistic faith of Israel and their unique relationship with God, who is both transcendent and immanent.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the laws and instructions from God, including those concerning offerings.

2. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave Moses the Ten Commandments and other laws, including the instructions for offerings.

3. The Israelites
The people of God who were commanded to follow these laws and offer sacrifices as a part of their covenant relationship with Him.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel who established the covenant and gave the laws for worship and offerings.

5. Burnt Offering
A specific type of sacrifice that was completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The regular burnt offering was a command from God, highlighting the importance of obedience in our worship and daily lives.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The burnt offering symbolizes total dedication and surrender to God, reminding us to offer our lives as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1).

Consistency in Worship
The regularity of the offering teaches us the importance of consistent and faithful worship practices.

God's Holiness and Our Response
The offerings were a response to God's holiness, calling us to live lives that reflect His character.

Foreshadowing of Christ
The sacrificial system points to Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice, encouraging us to find our hope and redemption in Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a "pleasing aroma" in the burnt offering relate to our spiritual sacrifices today?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate total dedication to God in our daily lives, similar to the symbolism of the burnt offering?

3. How does the regularity of the burnt offering challenge us to be consistent in our spiritual disciplines?

4. What aspects of the sacrificial system in the Old Testament help us understand the significance of Christ's sacrifice?

5. How can we apply the principles of obedience and holiness from this passage to our current context and challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29
This chapter provides detailed instructions for the consecration of priests and the offerings, including the regular burnt offering, which connects to the establishment of these practices at Mount Sinai.

Leviticus 1
Offers a detailed description of the burnt offering, its purpose, and how it is to be conducted, emphasizing its role as a pleasing aroma to the LORD.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the fulfillment of the sacrificial system in Christ, who offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice, making the regular burnt offerings a foreshadowing of His work.