“And their meat offering shall be of flour mingled with oil, three tenth deals unto every bullock of the thirteen bullocks, two tenth deals to each ram of the two rams.”
Numbers 29:14 is a part of the detailed instructions given by God to Moses concerning the observance of the Feast of Tabernacles (also known as the Feast of Booths) during the wilderness journey of the Israelites. This festival was one of the major feasts celebrated by the Israelites and had both historical and agricultural significance.
In this particular verse, God outlines the specific offerings that were to be presented during the Feast of Tabernacles. The focus of this verse is on the “meat offering” or the grain offering that accompanies the sacrificial offerings of bullocks and rams.
Meat Offering:The meat offering mentioned here is made from flour mixed with oil. In the Old Testament, a meat offering (also known as a grain offering) was a non-animal offering presented to God. It symbolized gratitude, dedication, and devotion to God. The offering was made by combining fine flour and olive oil. It was a way for the people to acknowledge that all good things come from God and to express their dependence on Him.
Quantities:The verse specifies the quantities of the meat offering that were to be presented. For each bullock offered (a total of thirteen bullocks), three tenth deals (approximately 3.6 liters) of flour mixed with oil were required. For each ram offered (a total of two rams), two tenth deals (approximately 2.4 liters) were required. These specific measurements indicate the prescribed proportions for each sacrifice.
It’s important to note that the Feast of Tabernacles was a time of rejoicing and celebration. The various offerings and sacrifices outlined in this chapter of Numbers were meant to honor God and express gratitude for His provision. They served as a way for the Israelites to remember their journey through the wilderness and God’s faithfulness in providing for them.
As we study this verse, we can draw some spiritual lessons. The meat offering, in particular, teaches us the importance of gratitude, dedication, and acknowledging God as the source of our blessings. It reminds us to present our lives as a pleasing offering to God, offering our time, talents, and resources with a heart of thanksgiving.
Overall, Numbers 29:14 highlights the meticulous instructions given by God for the observance of the Feast of Tabernacles, emphasizing the significance of the meat offering in conjunction with the sacrificial offerings. It serves as a reminder of the Israelites’ gratitude and reliance on God for His provision throughout their journey in the wilderness.
