TRV
Translation
King James Version
Then shall he bring with a bullock a meat offering of three tenth deals of flour mingled with half an hin of oil.
Complete Jewish Bible
there is to be presented with the bull a grain offering of one-and-a-half gallons of fine flour mixed with two quarts of olive oil.
Berean Standard Bible
present with the bull a grain offering of three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with half a hin of olive oil.
American Standard Version
then shall he offer with the bullock a meal-offering of three tenth parts of an ephah of fine flour mingled with half a hin of oil:
World English Bible Messianic
then shall he offer with the bull a meal offering of three tenth parts of an efah of fine flour mixed with half a hin of oil:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then let him offer with ye bullocke a meate offring of three tenth deales of fine floure, mingled with halfe an Hin of oyle.
Young's Literal Translation
then he hath brought near for the son of the herd a present of flour, three-tenth deals, mixed with oil, a half of the hin;
See also
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In the KJVVerse 4,163 of 31,102
Study This Verse
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 15:9 precisely outlines the required accompanying grain and oil offerings to be presented alongside a bullock sacrifice in ancient Israelite worship. This verse is part of a broader set of laws given to the Israelites in the wilderness, anticipating their future life in the Promised Land, and underscores God's meticulous instructions for proper worship, emphasizing the importance of obedience, generosity, and the concept of a complete and acceptable sacrifice.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: Numbers chapter 15 functions as a pivotal interlude, bridging the narrative of Israel's wilderness wanderings with the anticipation of their entry into Canaan. Following the devastating rebellion at Kadesh Barnea and the subsequent divine judgment that condemned the rebellious generation to perish in the wilderness (as detailed in Numbers 13-14), this chapter provides renewed instructions and laws for the next generation, who would indeed inherit the land. Verses 1-16 specifically detail the standard accompanying offerings—grain and drink offerings—that were to be presented alongside burnt offerings and peace offerings involving various animals. This detailed prescription highlights God's enduring covenant faithfulness and His desire for ordered, proper worship even after a period of significant national failure, setting the stage for renewed obedience and an established community life in the land. The meticulous nature of these instructions, including the specific quantities mentioned in this verse, underscores the divine origin and non-negotiable character of Israel's sacrificial system.
Historical & Cultural Context: The instructions in Numbers 15 were given to a people poised to transition from a nomadic existence to an agrarian society in Canaan. The sacrificial system was not merely a collection of rituals but a divinely ordained means for Israel to approach a holy God, express devotion, seek atonement, and maintain covenant fellowship. In the broader ancient Near East, offerings of animals, grain, and oil were common practices in the worship of various deities. However, Israel's system was uniquely rooted in their covenant with Yahweh, designed to teach profound theological truths about sin, holiness, and divine provision. The specific measures of "three tenth deals of flour" and "half an hin of oil" reflect the standardized weights and measures of the time, ensuring consistency, equity, and the proper execution of worship. Oil, a valuable commodity (often olive oil), symbolized anointing, light, and sustenance, while flour, representing the fruit of the land, signified God's provision and the worshiper's dependence.
Key Themes: Numbers 15:9, within its broader context, contributes to several overarching themes foundational to Israelite worship and theology. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates Divine Prescription and Order, demonstrating God's meticulous attention to detail in matters of worship. Every element, quantity, and type of offering was divinely ordained, underscoring the importance of obedience and reverence in approaching a holy God. Secondly, the concept of Completeness and Sufficiency is evident; the prescribed offerings, including the accompanying grain and oil, ensured that the sacrifice was whole and presented according to God's exact standard, lacking nothing. This foreshadows the perfect and complete sacrifice of Christ, which leaves nothing wanting (as seen in Hebrews 10:14). Thirdly, these offerings were profound acts of Worship and Devotion, signifying the people's thanksgiving, acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and provision, and their commitment to the covenant. Finally, while the primary animal sacrifice (the bullock) might be for atonement or fellowship, the accompanying grain offering represented a deeper commitment, acknowledging God as the ultimate provider and sustainer, a theme echoed in the principles of tithing and firstfruits throughout the Pentateuch (e.g., Deuteronomy 26:1-11).
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Numbers 15:9, though a prescriptive legal text, employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is Precision, evident in the exact quantities ("three tenth deals," "half an hin") and specific components ("flour," "oil," "bullock"). This meticulous detail underscores God's absolute sovereignty and His demand for an ordered, intentional, and obedient approach to worship. The very act of specifying such minutiae highlights the divine authorship and the non-negotiable nature of these commands, leaving no room for human improvisation. Furthermore, there is a rich layer of Symbolism at play. The flour, representing the produce of the land, symbolizes God's provision and the worshiper's dependence, while the oil, a valuable commodity, often symbolizes anointing, the Holy Spirit, or the richness of God's blessing and sustenance. The "bullock" itself symbolizes strength, value, and a complete sacrifice. The combination of these elements in a divinely prescribed manner creates a rich tapestry of meaning, where each component contributes to the overall theological message of complete dedication and acceptable worship. The verse also functions as a form of Legal Formula, presenting a divine statute in a clear, unambiguous manner, ensuring that the people understood exactly what was required of them. This formulaic language is characteristic of the legal sections of the Pentateuch, emphasizing the binding nature of God's covenant commands.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 15:9, with its precise instructions for accompanying offerings, reveals profound theological truths about the nature of worship and God's character. It underscores that true worship is not haphazard or arbitrary but is to be conducted with intentionality, reverence, and according to divine prescription. The requirement for specific quantities of valuable commodities like fine flour and oil teaches the principle of giving one's best to God, not merely leftovers or what is convenient. This act of giving from one's substance acknowledges God as the ultimate provider and sustainer, fostering a posture of dependence and gratitude. Furthermore, the integration of grain and oil with the animal sacrifice signifies the holistic nature of worship—it involves not just atonement for sin (through the animal) but also dedication of one's life, labor, and resources (through the grain and oil). This foreshadows a worship that encompasses all aspects of life, a "living sacrifice" offered in response to God's grace.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the principles embedded within Numbers 15:9 remain profoundly relevant for believers today. This verse challenges us to consider the intentionality and quality of our worship. God desires worship that is thoughtful, prepared, and offered with reverence, not as an afterthought or a mere formality. Just as the Israelites were to bring their best flour and oil, we are called to offer our "spiritual sacrifices" (as described in 1 Peter 2:5)—our time, talents, resources, and very lives—with excellence and devotion. This means cultivating a heart of obedience to God's revealed will, seeking to understand and apply His Word in all areas of our lives. It reminds us that true faith is demonstrated not only through belief but also through actions that reflect our love and commitment to God, acknowledging Him as the source of all provision and the worthy recipient of our highest praise.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What exactly was a "meat offering" in the context of Numbers 15:9?
Answer: The King James Version's term "meat offering" for the Hebrew word minchâh (מִנְחָה) is an archaic translation. In modern English, it is more accurately understood as a "grain offering" or "meal offering." It did not involve animal flesh but was typically made of fine flour, often mixed with oil and frankincense. This offering symbolized dedication, thanksgiving, and the acknowledgment of God's provision from the produce of the land. In Numbers 15:9, it served as an accompanying offering to a primary animal sacrifice, such as a bullock, making the overall presentation complete and acceptable to God. You can find extensive details on the grain offering in Leviticus 2.
Why were such precise measurements (e.g., "three tenth deals of flour," "half an hin of oil") required for these offerings?
Answer: The meticulous precision in the measurements for offerings, as seen in Numbers 15:9, underscores several critical theological principles. Firstly, it emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty and His demand for an ordered and intentional approach to worship. God is not to be approached casually or haphazardly. Secondly, it highlights the importance of obedience to divine command; the Israelites were to follow God's instructions exactly, demonstrating their submission and reverence. Thirdly, it ensured consistency and equity in worship across the community, preventing arbitrary offerings and promoting uniformity in devotion. Finally, the specific quantities, often involving valuable commodities, reinforced the principle of giving one's best to God, reflecting a generous and devoted heart, rather than just any offering. This precision points to the holiness of God and the seriousness of approaching Him.
Is this Old Testament law relevant for Christians today, given that we no longer offer animal sacrifices?
Answer: While the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament, including the sacrificial system, are fulfilled in Jesus Christ (as discussed in Hebrews 10:1-18), the underlying principles of Numbers 15:9 remain profoundly relevant for Christians. The verse teaches us about the nature of true worship: it should be intentional, reverent, and offered with our best. We are called to offer "spiritual sacrifices" (as in 1 Peter 2:5)—our lives, our praise, our resources, and our obedience—to God. The precision of the Old Testament law reminds us that God desires worship that is thoughtful and devoted, not casual or half-hearted. It encourages us to cultivate a heart of obedience and generosity, recognizing God as the ultimate provider and worthy recipient of all our devotion.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 15:9, with its detailed prescription for the grain and oil offering accompanying a bullock, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament sacrificial system, including its meticulous components, served as a shadow pointing to the perfect reality found in Him (as articulated in Hebrews 10:1). The bullock, representing a costly and complete sacrifice for atonement and dedication, is perfectly embodied in Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, whose once-for-all sacrifice on the cross perfectly atoned for humanity's sin, rendering all further animal sacrifices obsolete (as seen in Hebrews 9:11-14). Furthermore, the "meat offering" (grain offering) of fine flour, mingled with oil, beautifully foreshadows Christ's humanity and the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Jesus, born of a woman, was the "finest flour" of humanity—sinless, perfect, and fully consecrated to God (as described in Hebrews 4:15). He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and anointed without measure for His ministry (as in Luke 4:18 and John 3:34). His life, a perfect offering of obedience and dedication, was the ultimate minchâh, a fragrant aroma pleasing to God (as in Ephesians 5:2). Thus, in Christ, we see not only the complete animal sacrifice but also the perfect human offering, consecrated by the Spirit, fulfilling every detail of the Old Testament's sacrificial types and providing the only true means of approaching a holy God.