“And for a drink offering thou shalt offer the third part of an hin of wine, for a sweet savour unto the LORD.”
Context: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and records the events that took place during the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. In this particular chapter, God gives instructions to Moses regarding various offerings, including grain offerings, drink offerings, and sacrifices.
Drink Offering: The drink offering mentioned in Numbers 15:7 was a part of the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites. It was a pouring out of wine as an offering to the Lord. The drink offering accompanied various burnt offerings, grain offerings, and peace offerings. It symbolized the pouring out of one’s resources and devotion to God.
The Third Part of a Hin: The measurement mentioned, “the third part of a hin,” refers to a specific volume of liquid. A hin was a unit of liquid measurement in ancient Israel, equivalent to approximately 1.5 gallons or 5.7 liters. Therefore, the drink offering was to consist of one-third of a hin of wine.
Sweet Savour unto the LORD: The phrase “sweet savour unto the LORD” indicates that the drink offering was a pleasing aroma or fragrance to God. Just as the aroma of a pleasing sacrifice would ascend to God, the drink offering was a tangible expression of worship and devotion to Him.
Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons:
- Total commitment: The drink offering, like other offerings, symbolized the Israelites’ complete dedication and surrender to God. It represented their willingness to pour out their lives and resources to honor and worship Him.
- Giving our best: The offering of wine, a valuable and precious commodity, demonstrates the principle of giving God our best. It signifies offering something of worth and value, not mere leftovers or something of lesser significance.
- Worship and gratitude: The act of pouring out the drink offering was an act of worship and gratitude to God. It expressed the Israelites’ acknowledgment of His goodness, faithfulness, and provision in their lives.
- Christological significance: In the New Testament, Jesus Christ fulfilled the sacrificial system of the Old Testament. The drink offering, along with other offerings, foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. His shed blood became the perfect offering for the redemption of humanity.
Application:
- Giving our best: Just as the Israelites offered their best in the drink offering, we are called to give our best to God in all areas of our lives. This includes our time, talents, resources, and devotion.
- Worship and gratitude: We can express our worship and gratitude to God by acknowledging His goodness and faithfulness in our lives. Taking time to thank Him for His blessings and provision is an act of worship.
- Total commitment: God desires our wholehearted devotion. Like the drink offering, we are called to offer ourselves fully to Him, surrendering our will, desires, and ambitions to His purposes.
- Reflection on Christ’s sacrifice: The drink offering serves as a reminder of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross. It can deepen our appreciation for His redemptive work and motivate us to live in light of His love.
Remember, studying the Bible helps us gain insights into God’s character and His plan for humanity. It also provides guidance for our daily lives as we seek to honor and follow Him.
