Numbers 28:20

And their meate offering shall be of flowre mingled with oyle: three tenth deales shall ye offer for a bullocke, and two tenth deales for a ramme. Numbers 28:20 (KJV)

Historical Context: The book of Numbers records the events of the Israelites’ wilderness journey after their deliverance from Egypt. This verse is part of the instructions given to Moses concerning the offerings at the tabernacle.

The Meat Offering: The passage focuses on the “meat offering,” also called the grain or cereal offering. It consisted of fine flour mixed with oil (and frankincense in the broader ordinance), without leaven or honey. It was a voluntary offering that accompanied other sacrifices.

Quantities for Offerings: The verse provides the required amounts of flour mixed with oil to accompany each animal offering—specific measures are given for a bullock and for a ram.

Symbolism and Spiritual Meaning: The meat offering symbolizes dedicating the fruits of one’s labor to God, acknowledging His provision and expressing gratitude. Fine flour, produced through grinding and refining, suggests a life purified and consecrated to God. The mingling of flour with oil signifies the union of humanity and divinity; oil is often associated with the Holy Spirit, representing anointing and empowerment.

Application:

Gratitude and Dedication: As the Israelites offered the meat offering in gratitude, believers are called to present their lives as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1), offering daily work and resources to God with thanksgiving.

Consecration: The use of refined flour points to the call for personal holiness, allowing God to purify character and make believers vessels fit for His use (1 Peter 1:15‑16).

Dependence on the Holy Spirit: Oil represents the Holy Spirit’s empowering presence. Christians should rely on the Spirit’s guidance, strength, and empowerment in every aspect of life (Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 5:18).

Conclusion: Numbers 28:20 gives specific instructions for the meat offering, and while these regulations belong to the Old‑Testament ceremonial system, they invite believers today to reflect on gratitude, dedication, consecration, and reliance on the Holy Spirit in their daily walk with God.