Numbers 7:28

one male goat for a sin offering;

Study Bible

one male goat
The phrase "one male goat" refers to a specific type of animal used in ancient Israelite sacrificial practices. In Hebrew, the word for goat is "שָׂעִיר" (sa'ir), which often denotes a hairy or shaggy goat. Goats were common in the agrarian society of ancient Israel and were considered valuable livestock. The male goat, in particular, was often used in sacrificial rituals due to its significance in atonement practices. Historically, goats were seen as symbols of strength and vitality, and their use in offerings underscored the importance of the sacrifice being made. The choice of a male goat for this offering highlights the need for a pure and unblemished sacrifice, reflecting the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.

for a sin offering
The term "for a sin offering" translates the Hebrew word "חַטָּאת" (chatta'ath), which refers to a specific type of sacrifice intended to atone for sin. The sin offering was a crucial part of the Levitical sacrificial system, designed to restore the relationship between the Israelites and God when it had been disrupted by sin. This offering was not just about the physical act of sacrifice but was deeply symbolic of repentance and the desire for reconciliation with God. The sin offering served as a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who, according to Christian belief, became the final and perfect sin offering for humanity. In the historical context, the sin offering was a reminder of the holiness of God and the need for His people to live in accordance with His laws. It emphasized the gravity of sin and the mercy of God in providing a means for atonement.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions from God regarding the offerings.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were commanded to bring offerings for the dedication of the altar.

3. Tribe of Ephraim
The tribe responsible for the offering on this particular day, as part of the dedication of the altar.

4. Tabernacle
The sacred place where the offerings were made, representing God's dwelling among His people.

5. Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice made to atone for sin, symbolizing purification and reconciliation with God.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
The requirement of a sin offering underscores the gravity of sin and the need for atonement. Sin separates us from God, and the offering symbolizes the need for reconciliation.

God's Provision for Forgiveness
The sin offering is a reminder of God's provision for forgiveness. In the Old Testament, it was through animal sacrifices; in the New Testament, it is through Jesus Christ.

The Role of Obedience
The Israelites' obedience in bringing the offerings as prescribed by God demonstrates the importance of following God's commands precisely.

Symbolism of the Male Goat
The male goat as a sin offering symbolizes substitution and the transfer of sin, pointing forward to Christ's substitutionary atonement.

Community Responsibility
Each tribe's participation in the offerings highlights the communal aspect of worship and responsibility in maintaining a right relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a sin offering in Numbers 7:28 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 in the New Testament?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in the Israelites' offerings to our own spiritual lives today?

4. What does the communal aspect of the offerings teach us about the importance of community in our faith journey?

5. How can we incorporate the practice of confession and seeking forgiveness into our daily lives, as encouraged by 1 John 1:9?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Hebrews 9
Discusses the ultimate fulfillment of the sin offering through Jesus Christ, who offered Himself once for all.

1 John 1:9
Highlights the ongoing need for confession and God's faithfulness to forgive sins, connecting to the purpose of the sin offering.