Numbers 29:5

Include one male goat as a sin offering to make atonement for you.

Study Bible

Include
The directive to "include" signifies the necessity and completeness of the sacrificial system established by God. In Hebrew, the word used here implies an addition or incorporation, emphasizing that this offering is not optional but an integral part of the ritual. This reflects the comprehensive nature of God's instructions to His people, ensuring that every aspect of their worship is covered and that nothing is left to human discretion.

one male goat
The specification of "one male goat" as the offering is significant. In Hebrew, the word for goat is "sa'ir," which often denotes a hairy or shaggy goat, a common sacrificial animal in ancient Israel. The male goat, in particular, was seen as a symbol of strength and vitality. This choice underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for a robust offering to atone for it. Historically, goats were readily available and valuable, making them a fitting representation of the costliness of sin and the need for a worthy sacrifice.

as a sin offering
The term "sin offering" in Hebrew is "chatat," which means to purify or cleanse. This offering was specifically designed to atone for unintentional sins, highlighting God's provision for human frailty and His desire for His people to remain in right standing with Him. The sin offering is a profound reminder of the holiness of God and the separation that sin causes between God and humanity. It points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who would become the perfect sin offering for all humanity.

to make atonement
The phrase "to make atonement" comes from the Hebrew word "kaphar," which means to cover or to reconcile. This concept is central to the sacrificial system, as it signifies the covering of sin and the restoration of the relationship between God and His people. Atonement is not merely about forgiveness but about restoring the broken fellowship caused by sin. This anticipates the New Testament revelation of Christ's atoning work on the cross, which fully reconciles believers to God.

for you
The personal nature of "for you" emphasizes the individual and communal aspect of atonement. Each member of the community is implicated in the need for atonement, and the offering is made on behalf of the people. This underscores the personal responsibility each person has in maintaining their relationship with God and the communal responsibility to uphold the covenant. It is a reminder that while the sacrificial system was a communal act, it had personal implications for each Israelite, just as Christ's sacrifice is both a personal and communal act of redemption for believers today.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The people of God who were given these instructions to follow as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice in the Old Testament, intended to atone for sin and restore the relationship between the people and God.

4. Tabernacle
The place where the Israelites performed their sacrifices and offerings, serving as the dwelling place of God among His people.

5. Day of Atonement
A significant event in the Jewish calendar where offerings, including sin offerings, were made to atone for the sins of the people.

Teaching Points

Understanding Atonement
The sin offering in Numbers 29:5 underscores the necessity of atonement for sin. It points to the seriousness of sin and the need for reconciliation with God.

Symbolism of the Goat
The male goat as a sin offering symbolizes the transfer of sin and the need for a substitute to bear the penalty, foreshadowing Christ's sacrifice.

Continuity and Fulfillment
The Old Testament sacrificial system finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the perfect and final sin offering. This highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan.

Personal Reflection on Sin
Reflect on the gravity of sin in our lives and the need for continual repentance and reliance on Christ's atoning work.

Living in Grace
As believers, we are called to live in the grace provided by Christ's atonement, leading lives of gratitude, obedience, and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a sin offering in Numbers 29:5 help us understand the nature of sin and its consequences?

2. In what ways does the sin offering in the Old Testament point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ?

3. How can we apply the principle of atonement in our daily lives, particularly in our relationships with God and others?

4. What are some practical ways we can live out the grace and forgiveness we have received through Christ's atonement?

5. How do the teachings in Numbers 29:5 challenge us to view our own sin and the need for repentance and forgiveness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides detailed instructions on the sin offering, emphasizing its role in atonement and forgiveness.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the limitations of Old Testament sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate sin offering.

Isaiah 53
Prophesies about the suffering servant who would bear the sins of many, connecting to the concept of atonement.

1 John 1:9
Highlights the New Testament understanding of confession and forgiveness through Jesus Christ, the ultimate atonement.