“And on the second day ye shall offer twelve young bullocks, two rams, fourteen lambs of the first year without spot:”
This verse is part of the instructions given by God to Moses concerning the observance of the Feast of Tabernacles, also known as the Feast of Booths or Sukkot. The Feast of Tabernacles was one of the seven annual feasts appointed by God for the Israelites to commemorate and celebrate.
In Numbers 29:12-40, God provides specific instructions for the offerings that were to be made on each day of the feast, including the number and type of animals to be offered. These offerings were presented as burnt offerings, signifying the people’s devotion and surrender to God.
In particular, Numbers 29:17 focuses on the offerings to be made on the second day of the Feast of Tabernacles. It specifies the following offerings:
Twelve young bullocks:The bullocks, or young bulls, were considered valuable sacrifices. The number twelve represents the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying the unity and representation of the entire community.
Two rams:Rams were mature male sheep and were commonly used as offerings in various rituals. The offering of two rams could symbolize a duality or a pairing of elements.
Fourteen lambs of the first year without spot:Lambs were often used as sacrifices, representing innocence and purity. The number fourteen might represent a double portion, as seven is a significant number in biblical numerology associated with completion and perfection.
These offerings were required by God as part of the Israelites’ obedience to His commands. They served as a way for the people to express their gratitude, devotion, and commitment to God. The animals offered were to be without spot or blemish, representing the requirement for offerings to be perfect and acceptable in God’s sight.
Overall, Numbers 29:17 provides specific instructions for the offerings to be made on the second day of the Feast of Tabernacles, highlighting the importance of sacrificial worship and the people’s dedication to God during this significant festival.
