Numbers 28:8

And offer the second lamb at twilight, with the same grain offering and drink offering as in the morning. It is an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD.

Study Bible

Offer the second lamb
The Hebrew word for "offer" is "qarab," which means to bring near or present. This act of offering signifies drawing near to God, a central theme in the sacrificial system. The "second lamb" indicates the continuity and regularity of worship, emphasizing the importance of daily devotion and the perpetual need for atonement and communion with God.

at twilight
The term "twilight" refers to the time between the setting of the sun and the onset of night. In Hebrew, this is "bein ha'arbayim," meaning "between the evenings." This time was significant for the Israelites as it marked the transition from day to night, symbolizing the need for God's presence and protection as they moved into the darkness, both physically and spiritually.

with the same grain offering and drink offering
The grain offering, or "minchah" in Hebrew, was a tribute to God, representing the fruits of human labor and dedication. The drink offering, "nesek," was a libation poured out, symbolizing the pouring out of one's life in service to God. These offerings, accompanying the lamb, highlight the holistic nature of worship, involving both sustenance and spirit, and the dedication of all aspects of life to God.

as in the morning
This phrase underscores the consistency and faithfulness required in worship. Just as the morning sacrifice was a fresh start to the day, the evening sacrifice served as a reminder of God's continual presence and the need for ongoing devotion. It reflects the rhythm of life centered around God, beginning and ending each day with Him.

It is an offering made by fire
The phrase "offering made by fire" translates the Hebrew "isheh," which means a burnt offering. Fire in the sacrificial system symbolizes purification and the presence of God. The burning of the offering represents the complete surrender and transformation of the offering into something pleasing to God, a metaphor for the believer's life being wholly dedicated to Him.

a pleasing aroma to the LORD
The "pleasing aroma" is a recurring motif in the sacrificial language, indicating God's acceptance and satisfaction with the offering. In Hebrew, "reach nichoach" conveys the idea of rest or satisfaction. This phrase assures the Israelites that their offerings, when given with a sincere heart, are acceptable to God, bringing peace and reconciliation between God and His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the laws and instructions from God, including the sacrificial system outlined in Numbers.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given specific instructions on how to worship and offer sacrifices to maintain their covenant relationship with Him.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, where sacrifices and offerings were made.

4. The Evening Sacrifice
A daily ritual offering made at twilight, symbolizing continual devotion and reliance on God.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who prescribed the sacrificial system as a means for His people to express worship and maintain fellowship with Him.

Teaching Points

Consistency in Worship
The daily offerings highlight the importance of regular, consistent worship and devotion to God. Just as the Israelites were to offer sacrifices every morning and evening, believers today are encouraged to maintain a consistent prayer and worship life.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The evening sacrifice symbolizes the end of the day and the need to reflect on God's provision and grace. It serves as a reminder to end each day with gratitude and acknowledgment of God's presence.

Pleasing Aroma to the LORD
The phrase "a pleasing aroma to the LORD" signifies that God delights in sincere worship and obedience. Our lives, when lived in accordance with His will, can be a pleasing aroma to Him.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The sacrificial system points forward to Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice. Understanding the Old Testament sacrifices helps us appreciate the depth of Christ's atonement and the new covenant established through His blood.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of daily sacrifices in Numbers 28:8 encourage us to maintain a consistent spiritual discipline in our lives today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is a "pleasing aroma" to the LORD, as described in this passage?

3. How does the evening sacrifice serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness and provision throughout the day?

4. What are some practical ways we can incorporate the principles of the sacrificial system into our modern-day worship practices?

5. How does understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice as described in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 29:38-42
Provides the initial instructions for the daily offerings, establishing the pattern of morning and evening sacrifices.

Leviticus 6:8-13
Details the perpetual fire on the altar, emphasizing the continual nature of the offerings and the priests' role in maintaining it.

Hebrews 10:1-14
Discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate and final sacrifice, fulfilling the law.