“And the drink offering thereof shall be the fourth part of an hin for the one lamb: in the holy place shalt thou cause the strong wine to be poured unto the LORD for a drink offering.”
Historical Context:The book of Numbers is part of the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Bible) and it describes the events that occurred during the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In Numbers 28, God instructs Moses on the offerings and sacrifices that were to be made daily, weekly, monthly, and on special occasions.
The Drink Offering:In the Old Testament, drink offerings were an important part of the sacrificial system. They were typically made in conjunction with other offerings, such as burnt offerings or grain offerings. The drink offering consisted of pouring out a portion of wine or other fermented drink as an offering to God. It was a symbolic act of giving back to God and acknowledging His provision.
The Fourth Part of an Hin:In Numbers 28:7, God specifies that the drink offering for one lamb should be the fourth part of a hin. A hin was a unit of liquid measurement in ancient Israel, roughly equivalent to 1.5 litres or about 1.6 quarts. So, the drink offering would be around 0.375 litres or 0.4 quarts.
The Holy Place:The verse also states that the strong wine was to be poured out in the holy place. In the tabernacle, which was the portable sanctuary of Israel during their wilderness wanderings, the holy place referred to the area where the altar of incense was located, just before the Most Holy Place where the Ark of the Covenant resided. The drink offering was to be poured out in this sacred area as an act of worship and dedication to God.
Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons:The drink offering, like other offerings, had symbolic significance. Wine is often associated with joy and celebration in the Bible. Pouring out wine as an offering represented the pouring out of one’s heart and life to God. It symbolised a complete dedication and surrender to Him. It also signified gratitude, recognising God’s blessings and provision.
As we reflect on Numbers 28:7, we can draw some spiritual lessons. Firstly, it reminds us of the importance of offering our lives to God as a sacrifice. Just as the Israelites offered their drink offering, we are called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). It involves surrendering our will, desires, and ambitions to God, aligning ourselves with His purposes.
Secondly, the drink offering reminds us of the joy and celebration that comes from a relationship with God. Wine is often associated with joy in the Bible (e.g., Psalm 104:15). When we offer ourselves to God and walk in obedience to His commands, we experience the abundant life and joy that come from being in His presence (John 10:10).
Lastly, the drink offering encourages us to have a heart of gratitude. Pouring out the wine was an act of acknowledging God’s provision and expressing gratitude for His blessings. Similarly, we should cultivate an attitude of gratitude in our lives, recognising and thanking God for His goodness, mercy, and faithfulness.
In summary, Numbers 28:7 teaches us about the drink offering in the Old Testament sacrificial system. It symbolised dedication, surrender, joy, and gratitude. As believers, we can apply these lessons by offering ourselves to God, finding joy in His presence, and cultivating a heart of gratitude in all circumstances.
