And their meat offering shall be of floure mingled with oyle, three tenth deales vnto euery bullocke of the thirteene bullocks, two tenth deales to each ramme of the two rammes: Numbers 29:14 (KJV)
Numbers 29:14 is part of the detailed instructions given by God to Moses concerning the observance of the Feast of Tabernacles, also called the Feast of Booths, during the Israelites’ wilderness journey. This festival was one of the major feasts celebrated by Israel and carried both historical and agricultural significance.
In this verse God specifies the grain offering—referred to as the “meat offering”—that accompanied the animal sacrifices of thirteen bullocks and two rams. The meat offering consisted of fine flour mixed with olive oil. In the Old Testament a grain offering was a non‑animal sacrifice presented to God as a sign of gratitude, dedication, and devotion. By combining flour and oil the people acknowledged that all good things come from God and expressed their dependence on Him.
The quantities prescribed were three tenth‑deals of the flour‑oil mixture for each bullock and two tenth‑deals for each ram. These measurements indicated the exact proportion required for each sacrifice.
The Feast of Tabernacles was a time of rejoicing and celebration. The various offerings and sacrifices outlined in this chapter were intended to honor God and to express thankfulness for His provision. They also served as a memorial of the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness and of God’s faithful care throughout that period.
From this verse we can draw spiritual lessons. The meat offering teaches the importance of gratitude and dedication, reminding believers to recognize God as the source of every blessing. It encourages us to present our lives—our time, talents, and resources—as a pleasing offering to God, offered with a heart of thanksgiving.
Overall, Numbers 29:14 underscores the meticulous instructions God gave for the Feast of Tabernacles, highlighting the significance of the grain offering alongside the animal sacrifices. It stands as a reminder of the Israelites’ gratitude and reliance on God for provision throughout their wilderness wanderings.
