Numbers 15:9

KJV

Then shall he bring with a bullock a meat offering of three tenth deals of flour mingled with half an hin of oil.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then shall he bring {H7126} with a bullock {H1241}{H1121} a meat offering {H4503} of three {H7969} tenth deals {H6241} of flour {H5560} mingled {H1101} with half {H2677} an hin {H1969} of oil {H8081}.

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:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 15:9 specifies the precise accompanying grain and oil offerings required when a bullock was presented as a sacrifice in ancient Israelite worship. This verse is part of a larger section detailing various laws for offerings and vows that would be observed once the Israelites entered the Promised Land, emphasizing God's meticulous instructions for worship, the importance of obedience, and the concept of a complete and acceptable sacrifice.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers chapter 15 serves as a crucial interlude, bridging the narratives of the wilderness wanderings and the impending entry into Canaan. Following the disheartening rebellion at Kadesh Barnea and the subsequent divine judgment that condemned the current generation to die in the wilderness (Numbers 13-14), this chapter provides laws for the next generation, anticipating their settled life in the Promised Land. Verses 1-16 specifically outline the standard accompanying offerings—grain and drink offerings—that were to be presented alongside burnt offerings and peace offerings of various animals. This detailed prescription underscores God's enduring covenant faithfulness and His desire for proper worship even after a period of rebellion and judgment, setting the stage for renewed obedience and an ordered community life in the land. The meticulous nature of these instructions, including the specific quantities in [Numbers 15:9](/numbers/15-9 "Numbers 15:9 - Grain and Oil Offering with a Bullock"), highlights 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 on the cusp of transitioning from a nomadic existence to an agrarian society in Canaan. The sacrificial system, central to Israelite worship, was not merely a set of rituals but a divinely ordained means of approaching a holy God, expressing devotion, seeking atonement, and maintaining fellowship. In the ancient Near East, offerings of grain, oil, and animals were common expressions of worship and appeasement to deities. However, Israel's system was distinct, rooted in the covenant with Yahweh and 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 and equity in worship. Oil, a valuable commodity, 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. 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](/hebrews/10-14 "Hebrews 10:14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). 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](/deuteronomy/26 "Deuteronomy 26 - Firstfruits and Tithes")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Meat offering (Hebrew, _minchah'_):** The King James Version's translation "meat offering" is an archaic rendering that can be misleading to modern readers. The Hebrew word _minchah_ (מִנְחָה) does not refer to animal flesh but specifically to a "grain offering" or "meal offering." It was typically composed of fine flour, often mixed with oil and frankincense, and could be offered alone or, as in this verse, as an accompaniment to burnt offerings or peace offerings. The _minchah_ symbolized dedication, thanksgiving, and the acknowledgment of God's provision from the produce of the land. Its non-bloody nature distinguished it from sin or guilt offerings, though it could be presented in various contexts, as detailed in [Leviticus 2](/leviticus/2 "Leviticus 2 - The Grain Offering").
* **Three tenth deals (Hebrew, _‘issaron'_):** This refers to three _‘issaron_ (עִשָּׂרֹן), which literally means "one-tenth" and is equivalent to an omer. An omer was a dry measure, one-tenth of an ephah. An ephah was roughly equivalent to 22 liters or about half a bushel. Therefore, "three tenth deals" would be approximately 6.6 liters of fine flour, a substantial quantity indicating the generosity and completeness expected in the offering. This specific measurement for a bullock was larger than that for a ram or a lamb, reflecting the greater value and significance of the bullock in the sacrificial hierarchy.
* **Half an hin (Hebrew, _hin'_):** A _hin_ (הִין) was a standard liquid measure in ancient Israel, roughly equivalent to 3.6-6.1 liters (or about 1 gallon). Thus, "half an hin" would be approximately 1.8-3.0 liters of oil. Oil, particularly olive oil, was a valuable commodity in ancient Israel, used for food, light, anointing, and purification. Its inclusion in the offering signified richness, sustenance, and the anointing of God's presence. The precise quantity underscores the divine expectation for specific, not arbitrary, acts of worship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then shall he bring with a bullock":** This clause establishes that the grain and oil offering described is not a standalone sacrifice but an accompanying offering. The "bullock" (a young bull) was one of the most valuable animals for sacrifice, often used for burnt offerings (signifying complete dedication and atonement) or peace offerings (signifying fellowship and thanksgiving). The phrase "with a bullock" indicates that the grain and oil were integral complements, making the overall sacrifice complete and acceptable to God.
* **"a meat offering of three tenth deals of flour":** This specifies the type and quantity of the grain offering. As discussed, "meat offering" is _minchah_, a grain offering. The "three tenth deals of flour" (three omers) indicate a significant amount of fine flour, signifying a generous and high-quality offering. Fine flour was the best available, representing the worshiper's commitment to giving God their very best.
* **"mingled with half an hin of oil":** This details the preparation of the grain offering. The flour was not offered dry but was "mingled" or mixed with "half an hin of oil." This mixture created a dough or paste, which was then typically baked or cooked. The oil's integration was essential, adding richness, symbolic value (anointing, sustenance), and practical utility to the offering. The specific quantity of oil, "half an hin," further emphasizes the divine precision required for worship.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 15:9, though a prescriptive legal text, employs several literary devices to convey its 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. Furthermore, there is an element 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. The "bullock" itself symbolizes strength, value, and a complete sacrifice. The combination of these elements in a 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.

* [Leviticus 2:1-3](/leviticus/2-1 "The Grain Offering Explained")
* [Exodus 29:40-41](/exodus/29-40 "Daily Burnt Offering with Grain and Drink")
* [Philippians 4:18](/philippians/4-18 "A Fragrant Offering, Acceptable to God")

### 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](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones, Spiritual Sacrifices"))—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
* **In what ways can I offer my "best" to God in my daily life, beyond formal worship services?**
* **How does the precision of God's commands in the Old Testament inform my understanding of His desire for intentionality and order in my spiritual disciplines today?**
* **Considering the symbolism of flour (provision) and oil (anointing/blessing), how can I more consciously acknowledge God's provision and seek His anointing in my acts of worship and service?**

### 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 _minchah_ (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](/numbers/15-9 "Numbers 15:9 - Grain and Oil Offering with a Bullock"), 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](/leviticus/2 "The Law of the Grain Offering").

**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](/numbers/15-9 "Numbers 15:9 - Grain and Oil Offering with a Bullock"), 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. 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](/hebreros/10 "Hebrews 10 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")), 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](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones, Spiritual Sacrifices"))—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](/hebrews/10-1 "Hebrews 10:1 - The Law is a Shadow")). 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](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), 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](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). 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](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Our High Priest, Tempted Yet Sinless")). He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and anointed without measure for His ministry (as in [Luke 4:18](/luke/4-18 "Luke 4:18 - Jesus Anointed by the Spirit") and [John 3:34](/john/3-34 "John 3:34 - God Gives the Spirit Without Limit")). His life, a perfect offering of obedience and dedication, was the ultimate _minchah_, a fragrant aroma pleasing to God (as in [Ephesians 5:2](/ephesians/5-2 "Ephesians 5:2 - Christ's Sacrificial Love")). 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.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Numbers 28:14

And their drink offerings shall be half an hin of wine unto a bullock, and the third [part] of an hin unto a ram, and a fourth [part] of an hin unto a lamb: this [is] the burnt offering of every month throughout the months of the year.

Numbers 28:12

And three tenth deals of flour [for] a meat offering, mingled with oil, for one bullock; and two tenth deals of flour [for] a meat offering, mingled with oil, for one ram;

Leviticus 14:10

¶ And on the eighth day he shall take two he lambs without blemish, and one ewe lamb of the first year without blemish, and three tenth deals of fine flour [for] a meat offering, mingled with oil, and one log of oil.

Leviticus 6:14

¶ And this [is] the law of the meat offering: the sons of Aaron shall offer it before the LORD, before the altar.

Numbers 29:6

Beside the burnt offering of the month, and his meat offering, and the daily burnt offering, and his meat offering, and their drink offerings, according unto their manner, for a sweet savour, a sacrifice made by fire unto the LORD.

Nehemiah 10:33

For the shewbread, and for the continual meat offering, and for the continual burnt offering, of the sabbaths, of the new moons, for the set feasts, and for the holy [things], and for the sin offerings to make an atonement for Israel, and [for] all the work of the house of our God.

Ezekiel 42:13

Then said he unto me, The north chambers [and] the south chambers, which [are] before the separate place, they [be] holy chambers, where the priests that approach unto the LORD shall eat the most holy things: there shall they lay the most holy things, and the meat offering, and the sin offering, and the trespass offering; for the place [is] holy.