TRV
Translation
King James Version
All that are born of the country shall do these things after this manner, in offering an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.
Complete Jewish Bible
"'Every citizen is to do these things in this way when presenting an offering made by fire as a fragrant aroma for ADONAI.
Berean Standard Bible
Everyone who is native-born shall prepare these things in this way when he presents an offering made by fire as a pleasing aroma to the LORD.
American Standard Version
All that are home-born shall do these things after this manner, in offering an offering made by fire, of a sweet savor unto Jehovah.
World English Bible Messianic
“‘All who are native-born shall do these things in this way, in offering an offering made by fire, of a pleasant aroma to the LORD.
Geneva Bible (1599)
All that are borne of the countrey, shall do these things thus, to offer an offring made by fire of sweete sauour vnto the Lord.
Young's Literal Translation
every native doth thus with these, at bringing near a fire-offering of sweet fragrance to Jehovah;
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In the KJVVerse 4,167 of 31,102
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Commentary on Numbers 15 verses 1–21
1 ¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
2 Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye be come into the land of your habitations, which I give unto you,
3 And will make an offering by fire unto the LORD, a burnt offering, or a sacrifice in performing a vow, or in a freewill offering, or in your solemn feasts, to make a sweet savour unto the LORD, of the herd, or of the flock:
4 Then shall he that offereth his offering unto the LORD bring a meat offering of a tenth deal of flour mingled with the fourth part of an hin of oil.
5 And the fourth part of an hin of wine for a drink offering shalt thou prepare with the burnt offering or sacrifice, for one lamb.
6 Or for a ram, thou shalt prepare for a meat offering two tenth deals of flour mingled with the third part of an hin of oil.
7 And for a drink offering thou shalt offer the third part of an hin of wine, for a sweet savour unto the LORD.
8 And when thou preparest a bullock for a burnt offering, or for a sacrifice in performing a vow, or peace offerings unto the LORD:
9 Then shall he bring with a bullock a meat offering of three tenth deals of flour mingled with half an hin of oil.
10 And thou shalt bring for a drink offering half an hin of wine, for an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.
11 Thus shall it be done for one bullock, or for one ram, or for a lamb, or a kid.
12 According to the number that ye shall prepare, so shall ye do to every one according to their number.
13 All that are born of the country shall do these things after this manner, in offering an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.
14 And if a stranger sojourn with you, or whosoever be among you in your generations, and will offer an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD; as ye do, so he shall do.
15 One ordinance shall be both for you of the congregation, and also for the stranger that sojourneth with you, an ordinance for ever in your generations: as ye are, so shall the stranger be before the LORD.
16 One law and one manner shall be for you, and for the stranger that sojourneth with you.
17 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
18 Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye come into the land whither I bring you,
19 Then it shall be, that, when ye eat of the bread of the land, ye shall offer up an heave offering unto the LORD.
20 Ye shall offer up a cake of the first of your dough for an heave offering: as ye do the heave offering of the threshingfloor, so shall ye heave it.
21 Of the first of your dough ye shall give unto the LORD an heave offering in your generations.
Here we have,
I. Full instructions given concerning the meat-offerings and drink-offerings, which were appendages to all the sacrifices of animals. The beginning of this law is very encouraging: When you come into the land of your habitation which I give unto you, they you shall do so and so, Num 15:2. This was a plain intimation, not only that God was reconciled to them notwithstanding the sentence he had passed upon them, but that he would secure the promised land to their seed notwithstanding their proneness to rebel against him. They might think some time or other they should be guilty of a misdemeanour that would be fatal to them, and would exclude them for ever, as the last had done for one generation; but this intimates an assurance that they should be kept from provoking God to such a degree as would amount to a forfeiture; for this statute takes it for granted that there were some of them that should in due time come into Canaan. The meat-offerings were of two sorts; some were offered alone, and we have the law concerning those, Lev 2:1, etc. Others were added to the burnt-offerings and peace-offerings, and constantly attended them, and about these direction is here given. It was requisite, since the sacrifices of acknowledgment (specified in Lev 2:3) were intended as the food of God's table, that there should be a constant provision of bread, oil, and wine, whatever the flesh-meat was. The caterers or purveyors for Solomon's temple provided fine flour, Kg1 4:22. And it was fit that God should keep a good house, that his table should be furnished with bread as well as flesh, and that his cup should run over. In my Father's house there is bread enough. Now the intent of this law is to direct what proportion the meat-offering and drink-offering should bear to several sacrifices to which they were annexed. If the sacrifice was a lamb or a kid, then the meat-offering must be a tenth-deal of flour, that is, an omer, which contained about five pints; this must be mingled with oil, the fourth part of a hin (a hin contained about five quarts), and the drink-offering must be the same quantity of wine, about a quart and half a pint, Num 15:3-5. If it was a ram, the meat-offering was doubled, two tenth-deals of flour, about five quarts, and a third part of a hin of oil (which was to them as butter is to us) mingled with it; and the same quantity of wine for a drink-offering, Num 15:6, Num 15:7. If the sacrifice was a bullock, the meat-offering was to be trebled, three omers, with five pints of oil, and the same quantity of wine for a drink-offering, Num 15:8-10. And thus for each sacrifice, whether offered by a particular person or at the common charge. Note, Our religious services should be governed, as by other rules, so by the rule of proportion.
II. Natives and strangers are here set upon a level, in this as in other matters (Num 15:13-16): "One law shall be for you and for the stranger that is proselyted to the Jewish religion." Now, 1. This was an invitation to the Gentiles to become proselytes, and to embrace the faith and worship of the true God. In civil things there was a difference between strangers and true-born Israelites, but not in the things of God; as you are, so shall the stranger be before the Lord, for with him there is no respect of persons. See Isa 56:3. 2. This was an obligation upon the Jews to be kind to strangers, and not to oppress them, because they saw them owned and accepted of God. Communion in religion is a great engagement to mutual affection, and should slay all enmities. 3. It was a mortification to the pride of the Jews, who are apt to be puffed up with their birthright privileges. "We are Abraham's seed." God let them know that the sons of the stranger were as welcome to him as the sons of Jacob; no man's birth or parentage shall turn either to his advantage or his prejudice in his acceptance with God. This likewise intimated that, as believing strangers should be accounted Israelites, so unbelieving Israelites should be accounted strangers. 4. It was a happy presage of the calling of the Gentiles, and of their admission into the church. If the law made so little difference between Jew and Gentile, much less would the gospel make, which broke down the partition-wall, and reconciled both to God in one sacrifice, without the observance of the legal ceremonies.
III. A law for the offering of the first of their dough unto the Lord. This, as the former, goes upon the comfortable supposition of their having come into the promised land, Num 15:18. Now that they lived upon manna they needed not such an express acknowledgment of God's title to their daily bread, and their dependence upon him for it, the thing spoke for itself; but in Canaan, where they should eat the fruit of their own industry, God required that he should be owned as their landlord and their great benefactor. They must not only offer him the first-fruits and tenths of the corn in their fields (these had already been reserved); but when they had it in their houses, in their kneading trough, when it was almost ready to be set upon their tables, God must have a further tribute of acknowledgment, part of their dough (the Jews say a fortieth part, at least, of the whole lump) must be heaved or offered up to God (Num 15:20, Num 15:21), and the priest must have it for the use of his family. Thus they must own their dependence upon God for their daily bread, even when they had it in the house with them; they must then wait on God for the comfortable use of it; for we read of that which was brought home, and yet God did blow upon it, and it came to little, Hag 1:9. Christ has taught us to pray not, Give us this year our yearly harvest, but Give us this day our daily bread. God by this law said to the people, as the prophet long afterwards said to the widow of Sarepta (Kg1 17:13), Only make me thereof a little cake first. This offering was expressly kept up by the laws of Ezekiel's visionary temple, and it is a commandment with promise of family-mercies (Eze 44:30): You shall give unto the priest the first of your dough, that he may cause the blessing to rest in thy house; for, when God has had his dues out of our estates, we may expect the comfort of what falls to our share.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–21. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Numbers 15:13 articulates a fundamental requirement within the Israelite sacrificial system, stipulating that all native-born members of the community were obligated to meticulously follow God's prescribed instructions for presenting offerings made by fire. This verse emphasizes the universal applicability of divine commandments concerning worship, ensuring that every individual within the covenant community adhered to the precise methods for their sacrifices to be considered a "sweet savour," or acceptable, to the LORD. It profoundly underscores God's demand for obedient worship and His gracious acceptance of offerings presented according to His revealed will.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Numbers 15:13 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The primary device is Legal Language, characterized by its prescriptive tone, imperative verbs ("shall do"), and precise stipulations. This reflects the absolute authority of God's commands and the binding obligation placed upon the Israelites, functioning as a divine decree that leaves no room for ambiguity regarding the universal application of the sacrificial laws. There is also a significant element of Repetition within the broader Pentateuchal context, as the phrase "sweet savour" (or "soothing aroma") appears numerous times in connection with acceptable offerings (e.g., Leviticus 1:9, Exodus 29:18), thereby reinforcing its profound theological significance and establishing a consistent standard for divine acceptance. Finally, Symbolism is powerfully evident in the concept of the "sweet savour." While literally referring to an aroma, it symbolically represents God's spiritual acceptance, pleasure, and favorable reception of the obedience and devotion of His people. The ascending smoke of the burnt offering, carrying this "sweet savour," thus symbolizes the worshiper's devotion reaching God and being graciously received.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 15:13 is profoundly significant for understanding the nature of Old Testament worship and its enduring theological principles. It unequivocally underscores God's absolute sovereignty and His inherent right to dictate the precise terms by which humanity may approach Him. The emphatic instruction "after this manner" reveals that God values meticulous obedience and divine order in worship, not merely the act itself. This principle extends far beyond the ceremonial sacrificial system, teaching that true worship in any dispensation must align with God's revealed will, reflecting a heart of humble submission, reverence, and faith. The concept of a "sweet savour" speaks to God's profound desire for genuine communion with His people, where their acts of devotion, performed in faith and obedience, are met with His gracious acceptance and approval. This verse, therefore, highlights the indispensable connection between divinely prescribed ritual, faithful execution, and divine approval, laying crucial groundwork for understanding acceptable worship in all dispensations.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific animal sacrifices and fire offerings of the Old Covenant are no longer practiced by believers today, Numbers 15:13 offers profound and enduring principles that are immensely relevant for our spiritual lives. It challenges us to deeply consider the very nature of our worship: Is it truly offered "after this manner," meaning strictly according to God's revealed will and not merely our own preferences, convenience, or cultural trends? Just as the Israelites were called to meticulous obedience in their physical offerings, we as New Covenant believers are called to offer spiritual sacrifices—our lives, our fervent prayers, our heartfelt praise, our dedicated service, and our generous giving—in a way that is truly pleasing and acceptable to God. This necessitates a diligent pursuit of understanding His will through the diligent study of His Word, cultivating a heart filled with reverence and humility, and striving for holiness in every aspect of our daily lives. Our worship should never be a casual or self-serving act, but rather a deliberate, devoted, and Spirit-led offering that ascends to God as a "sweet savour," reflecting our deep love, unwavering faith, and obedient submission to Him.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "sweet savour" truly mean in the context of Old Testament sacrifices?
Answer: The phrase "sweet savour" (Hebrew: reakh nihoah) is an anthropomorphic expression, meaning it employs human sensory terms to describe a profound divine reality. It does not imply that God literally smells an aroma. Instead, it signifies God's favorable reception, gracious acceptance, and profound pleasure in an offering that is presented precisely according to His commands and with the right heart of faith and obedience. It indicates that the sacrifice has met God's holy standard, is effective for its intended purpose (e.g., atonement, communion), and is therefore welcomed and approved by Him. It's a theological statement of divine approval, emphasizing the efficacy and spiritual beauty of obedient worship. This concept is foundational to understanding God's interaction with His people through the sacrificial system, as seen in passages like Leviticus 1:9.
Does Numbers 15:13 apply only to native-born Israelites, excluding others?
Answer: Numbers 15:13 specifically states "All that are born of the country" (Hebrew: ezrach), referring to native-born Israelites. However, the very next verses, Numbers 15:14-16, explicitly extend these same sacrificial laws to the "stranger that sojourneth with you." This demonstrates God's inclusive nature even within the Old Covenant, showing that those who chose to live among Israel and identify with their God were also expected to abide by His laws and participate in His prescribed worship. While the initial focus of verse 13 is on the core covenant community, the broader context of the chapter reveals God's desire for all who dwell among His people to participate in His prescribed worship, foreshadowing the glorious inclusion of Gentiles in the New Covenant through Christ.
How does this Old Testament verse relate to Christian worship today, since we don't offer animal sacrifices?
Answer: While the ceremonial laws of animal sacrifice have been perfectly fulfilled in Christ, the underlying principles of Numbers 15:13 remain profoundly relevant and eternally applicable for Christian worship. The verse teaches us that God desires worship that is offered "after this manner"—that is, strictly according to His revealed will, not our own preferences, fleeting emotions, or cultural whims. For Christians, this means our worship should be thoroughly centered on Christ, deeply grounded in biblical truth, and offered with utmost sincerity, reverence, and obedience. Our "offerings" are now spiritual: our entire lives presented as living sacrifices, our heartfelt praise, our earnest prayers, our dedicated service, and our generous financial giving. The ultimate goal remains precisely the same: that our worship would be a "sweet savour" to the Lord, truly pleasing and acceptable to Him because it aligns with His holy character and divine commands, and is offered through unwavering faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 15:13, with its profound emphasis on an "offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD," finds its ultimate, perfect, and conclusive fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The entire Old Testament sacrificial system, including the meticulous laws detailed in Numbers, served as a divine foreshadowing and pedagogical shadow of the one perfect sacrifice that would truly atone for sin and reconcile humanity into full, unhindered communion with God. Jesus Christ is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, and His crucifixion was the consummate "offering made by fire" – not of animals, but of Himself – consumed by the righteous fire of divine justice and the boundless fire of divine love. His sacrifice on the cross was not merely acceptable, but supremely pleasing to God, the ultimate "sweet-smelling offering" (as described in Ephesians 5:2). Through His once-for-all death, Christ perfectly fulfilled all the requirements of the law, rendering all previous sacrifices obsolete and establishing a new and living way (Hebrews 10:1-14). Because of His perfect, unblemished offering, believers now have direct, confident access to God, not through ritualistic animal sacrifice, but solely through faith in Christ's finished work, enabling us to offer spiritual sacrifices that are truly pleasing and acceptable to God (1 Peter 2:5).