“But ye shall offer the burnt offering for a sweet savour unto the LORD; two young bullocks, one ram, seven lambs of the first year.”
Historical Context:The book of Numbers is primarily concerned with the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. It contains detailed instructions regarding various aspects of worship, including sacrifices, offerings, and the responsibilities of the priests. In Numbers 28, God gives specific instructions to Moses regarding the daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly offerings that the Israelites were to present to Him.
The Burnt Offering: The burnt offering was one of the most important and frequently offered sacrifices in the Old Testament. It was a voluntary offering that symbolized complete surrender and dedication to God. The entire animal was consumed by fire, signifying the worshipper’s desire to offer themselves entirely to the Lord. The burnt offering was often accompanied by other offerings, such as grain offerings, drink offerings, and peace offerings.
The Sweet Savour: In Numbers 28:27, the burnt offering is described as a “sweet savour” to the Lord. This phrase indicates that the offering was pleasing and acceptable to God. The aroma of the burning sacrifices was symbolic of the worshipper’s obedience, devotion, and desire to please God. It was a way for the Israelites to express their gratitude and seek reconciliation with God.
Symbolic Meaning: The burnt offering, including the specific animals mentioned in Numbers 28:27, carried symbolic significance. The two young bullocks represented strength and power, symbolizing the worshipper’s dedication and willingness to serve God with their physical resources. The ram represented submission and humility, reflecting the worshipper’s surrender and willingness to be led by God. The seven lambs of the first year may represent completeness and perfection, signifying the worshipper’s desire to offer their entire life to God.
Spiritual Application: Although the practice of offering animal sacrifices is not applicable to Christians today, there are spiritual lessons we can learn from Numbers 28:27. It reminds us of the importance of surrendering ourselves wholly to God, offering our lives as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1). We are called to present our bodies, minds, and hearts to God in worship, seeking to please Him in all that we do.
Additionally, the concept of a “sweet savour” teaches us that our worship and obedience can bring pleasure and delight to God. When we live in accordance with His will, seeking to honor Him with our actions, our lives become a fragrant offering before Him.
In conclusion, Numbers 28:27 highlights the significance of the burnt offering as a sweet savour to the Lord. While we no longer practice animal sacrifices, we can apply the principles of surrender, dedication, and pleasing God in our lives as we offer ourselves as living sacrifices before Him.
