A seuerall tenth deale shalt thou offer for euery lambe, throughout the seuen lambes: Numbers 28:21 (KJV)
The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and provides an account of the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. It contains various instructions and laws given by God to the Israelites, including regulations concerning sacrifices and offerings.
In Numbers 28:21, God instructs the Israelites regarding the offerings they are to bring to Him. The verse specifically focuses on the offering to be made for each lamb during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. The quantity mentioned is a ‘several tenth deal’ for each lamb, which refers to a specific measurement of fine flour used as an offering. The term ‘several tenth deal’ is often translated as ‘one‑tenth of an ephah’ in other Bible versions. An ephah was a standard unit of measurement for grain. The instruction applies to each of the seven lambs sacrificed daily during the seven‑day Feast of Unleavened Bread. The instruction regarding the offering is to be carried out daily, consisting of two lambs—one in the morning and one at twilight. For each lamb, a ‘several tenth deal,’ or one‑tenth of an ephah of fine flour, was to be offered as part of the sacrifice.
The offering of fine flour symbolizes the dedication of the Israelites’ resources to God. By offering a portion of their harvest, they acknowledged that all they had came from God and that He deserved their worship and gratitude. The offering was a tangible expression of their devotion and dependence on God.
While the specific regulations regarding offerings and sacrifices in the Old Testament were fulfilled in Jesus Christ, there are principles we can glean from this verse. It reminds us of the importance of giving to God out of a heart of gratitude and worship. Just as the Israelites offered a portion of their resources, we are encouraged to give back to God generously and cheerfully, recognizing that everything we have is ultimately a gift from Him. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is referred to as the ‘Lamb of God’ who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29). His sacrificial death on the cross fulfilled the ultimate offering for sin, making the need for animal sacrifices obsolete. Through faith in Jesus, we can receive forgiveness and salvation. His sacrifice represents the complete atonement for sin, and we are called to respond with a heart of gratitude and surrender.
Remember that studying the Bible requires a holistic approach, considering the broader context, historical background, and other related Scriptures. It is always beneficial to seek further understanding through prayer, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and studying additional resources that provide deeper insights into the text.
