Numbers 28:6

KJV

[It is] a continual burnt offering, which was ordained in mount Sinai for a sweet savour, a sacrifice made by fire unto the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

It is a continual {H8548} burnt offering {H5930}, which was ordained {H6213} in mount {H2022} Sinai {H5514} for a sweet {H5207} savour {H7381}, a sacrifice made by fire {H801} unto the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

It is the regular burnt offering, the same as was offered on Mount Sinai to give a fragrant aroma, an offering made by fire for ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

This is a regular burnt offering established at Mount Sinai as a pleasing aroma, an offering made by fire to the LORD.

American Standard Version

It is a continual burnt-offering, which was ordained in mount Sinai for a sweet savor, an offering made by fire unto Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 28:6 precisely describes the *olah tamid*, the continual burnt offering, a foundational element of Israel's worship. This daily sacrifice, consisting of two lambs offered morning and evening, was divinely ordained at Mount Sinai. It represented an unwavering national dedication to God, serving as a perpetual reminder of His covenant and a means of maintaining fellowship, offered by fire as a "sweet savour" to the Lord, signifying His acceptance and pleasure.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 28-29 constitutes a highly detailed legislative section within the book of Numbers, meticulously outlining the various sacrifices and offerings required for daily, weekly, monthly, and annual observances. This specific verse introduces the foundational "continual burnt offering" (Hebrew: *olah tamid*), which serves as the bedrock upon which all other specified offerings are built. It follows earlier general instructions on offerings and precedes the elaborate descriptions of sacrifices for Sabbaths, New Moons, and the major annual feasts like Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Booths. The repetition and specificity in these chapters underscore the importance of precise adherence to God's commands regarding worship, emphasizing order, holiness, and the perpetual need for atonement and communion.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Numbers chronicles Israel's journey through the wilderness from Mount Sinai to the plains of Moab, detailing their organization, census, laws, and worship practices. At this point in the narrative, Israel has received the Law at Mount Sinai and is preparing for their eventual entry into the Promised Land. The Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary, was the focal point of their national life and worship. Sacrificial systems were common in the ancient Near East, but Israel's system was unique in its monotheistic focus, divine origin, and specific regulations, all designed to facilitate a holy relationship with Yahweh. The "continual burnt offering" was not merely a ritual but a daily, tangible expression of Israel's covenant relationship with God, a constant act of remembrance and reconciliation in the midst of their wilderness wanderings.
* **Key Themes:** The meticulous instructions for the continual burnt offering in Numbers 28:6 contribute to several overarching themes within the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. It highlights the theme of **Unceasing Devotion**, underscoring the necessity of constant worship and remembrance of God's covenant, serving as a daily reminder of Israel's dependence on God and His provision for their sin. The offering also speaks to the theme of **Atonement and Fellowship**, as burnt offerings were a primary means of atoning for unintentional sins and expressing complete surrender and devotion, thereby facilitating fellowship between God and His people (see [Leviticus 1:4](/leviticus/1-4 "Leviticus 1:4 - Atonement through Burnt Offering")). Furthermore, the phrase "ordained in mount Sinai" emphasizes **God's Ordination and Holiness**, pointing to the divine origin and the unchangeable nature of God's requirements for approaching Him. Finally, the description "a sweet savour, a sacrifice made by fire unto the LORD" signifies **Acceptable Worship**, indicating God's pleasure and acceptance of the offering when performed according to His precise commands, a concept foreshadowing the perfect sacrifice of Christ (compare [Ephesians 5:2](/ephesians/5-2 "Ephesians 5:2 - Christ's Sacrifice as a Fragrant Offering")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **continual burnt offering (Hebrew, _ʿōlat tāmîd'_):** This compound phrase is central to the verse. *ʿōlāh* (עֹלָה) derives from the verb "to go up" or "ascend," referring to an offering that was entirely consumed by fire on the altar, with the smoke "ascending" to God. It signifies complete dedication and surrender. *Tāmîd* (תָּמִיד) means "continual," "perpetual," or "daily," emphasizing the unbroken, uninterrupted nature of this specific ritual. Together, they denote a sacrifice that was to be offered without cessation, morning and evening, every day, symbolizing Israel's constant need for atonement and their perpetual devotion to God.
* **ordained (Hebrew, _tsāwāh'_):** The verb *tsāwāh* (צָוָה) means "to command," "to appoint," or "to ordain." Its use here highlights the divine authority behind this offering. It was not a human invention or a cultural adaptation but a direct, authoritative command from God Himself, given at the pivotal location of Mount Sinai. This underscores the non-negotiable and sacred nature of the ritual, rooted in God's covenant relationship with Israel.
* **sweet savour (Hebrew, _rêaḥ nîḥōaḥ'_):** This phrase, *rêaḥ nîḥōaḥ* (רֵיחַ נִיחֹחַ), literally translates to "a soothing aroma" or "a restful scent." It is an anthropomorphism expressing God's acceptance and pleasure in the offering. It does not imply that God literally smells the burning flesh, but rather that the sacrifice, when offered in obedience and faith according to His commands, was pleasing and satisfactory to Him, bringing Him "rest" or contentment in His relationship with His people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"[It is] a continual burnt offering":** This clause identifies the specific sacrifice being discussed, emphasizing its perpetual and unceasing nature. It refers to the *olah tamid*, the daily morning and evening sacrifice, which was the bedrock of Israel's public worship, symbolizing their constant need for atonement and their unwavering devotion to God.
* **"which was ordained in mount Sinai":** This phrase grounds the offering in divine authority and covenant history. It highlights that this ritual was not a human invention but a direct command from God, given at the very place where He established His covenant with Israel and delivered the Law. This origin underscores its foundational importance and inviolable nature.
* **"for a sweet savour":** This clause describes the desired outcome and divine perception of the offering. "Sweet savour" (or "soothing aroma") signifies God's acceptance and pleasure. When performed according to His will, the offering was pleasing to Him, indicating that the worshiper's act of obedience and devotion, through the prescribed sacrifice, was found acceptable in His sight.
* **"a sacrifice made by fire unto the LORD":** This final clause specifies the method of offering and its ultimate recipient. The consumption by fire signifies the complete dedication of the offering to God, and the explicit mention "unto the LORD" emphasizes that this act of worship was directed solely to Yahweh, distinguishing it from pagan practices and reinforcing the monotheistic nature of Israel's faith.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Legal/Prescriptive Language**, characteristic of the Pentateuch's legislative sections. It is a direct, declarative statement outlining a divine command, emphasizing the precise nature of worship God requires. The phrase "a sweet savour" functions as **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human sensory experience (smell) to God to convey His acceptance and pleasure. This is a common biblical device to make divine realities comprehensible. Furthermore, the entire concept of the burnt offering, particularly its consumption by fire, is rich in **Symbolism**. The ascending smoke symbolizes the offering's dedication to God and the worshiper's prayers rising to Him, while the fire itself symbolizes purification, divine presence, and the complete consumption of the offering as an act of surrender and atonement. The "continual" aspect also points to **Repetition** as a key element of the ritual, reinforcing its importance and the constant nature of Israel's relationship with God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The continual burnt offering, as described in Numbers 28:6, serves as a profound theological statement about God's holiness, humanity's sinfulness, and the divinely appointed means of reconciliation. It underscores the truth that God is holy and cannot tolerate sin in His presence, yet in His grace, He provides a way for His people to approach Him. The daily repetition emphasized the persistent reality of sin and the constant need for atonement, while also serving as a perpetual reminder of God's covenant faithfulness. This offering was not merely a ritualistic act but a tangible expression of Israel's dependence on God, their repentance, and their desire for unbroken fellowship. It prefigured the ultimate and perfect sacrifice that would one day fully and finally satisfy God's righteous demands, transforming the nature of worship and access to God.

* [Exodus 29:38-42](/exodus/29-38 "Exodus 29:38-42 - Ordination of the Daily Burnt Offering")
* [Leviticus 1:9](/leviticus/1-9 "Leviticus 1:9 - The Burnt Offering as a Pleasing Aroma")
* [Hebrews 10:1-10](/hebrews/10-1 "Hebrews 10:1-10 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice Fulfills the Law")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament, including the continual burnt offering, are no longer binding for believers today due to the perfect and once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the underlying principles remain profoundly relevant for our spiritual lives. Numbers 28:6 challenges us to consider the nature of our own devotion. The "continual" aspect of the offering calls us to a life of consistent, unwavering commitment to God, not through ritual sacrifice, but through daily spiritual disciplines: persistent prayer, diligent study of God's Word, and intentional obedience. Our lives are to be "living sacrifices," offered continually in worship and service, reflecting a heart wholly dedicated to the Lord. The concept of a "sweet savour" reminds us that God desires not just our actions, but our hearts—worship offered in spirit and truth, motivated by love and gratitude, is what truly pleases Him. This verse encourages us to cultivate a lifestyle of perpetual awareness of God's presence and a constant desire to honor Him in every aspect of our lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the "continual" nature of the burnt offering challenge my own consistency in daily spiritual disciplines and devotion to God?**
* **In what practical ways can I present my body as a "living sacrifice" (Romans 12:1) that is pleasing and acceptable to God in my everyday life?**
* **How does understanding the purpose and significance of the Old Testament burnt offering deepen my appreciation for the completeness and finality of Christ's sacrifice on the cross?**

### FAQ
**Why was the "continual burnt offering" so important to the Israelites?**

Answer: The continual burnt offering (Hebrew: *olah tamid*) was of paramount importance because it served as the foundational and most frequent act of public worship for the nation of Israel. Ordained by God Himself at [Mount Sinai](/exodus/29-38 "Exodus 29:38 - The Daily Burnt Offering Ordained"), it symbolized the nation's constant dedication to God and their perpetual need for atonement. Offered twice daily, every single day of the year, it was a constant reminder of God's covenant with His people, His holiness, and His provision for their sins. It ensured that a channel of communication and reconciliation remained open between God and Israel, maintaining the purity and sanctity of their relationship. Without this daily offering, the entire system of worship and fellowship would have been compromised, as it represented the ongoing covering for the nation's unintentional sins and a continuous expression of their devotion.

**What does "sweet savour" mean in the context of Old Testament sacrifices?**

Answer: In the context of Old Testament sacrifices, "sweet savour" (Hebrew: *reah nihoah*) signifies God's acceptance and pleasure regarding the offering. It's an anthropomorphic expression, meaning that the sacrifice, when offered according to God's precise commands and with the right heart attitude, was pleasing and satisfactory to Him. It did not refer to a literal pleasant smell, but rather that the act of obedience, faith, and atonement represented by the sacrifice was agreeable to God, bringing Him "rest" or contentment. This concept is seen throughout the Old Testament (e.g., [Leviticus 1:9](/leviticus/1-9 "Leviticus 1:9 - Burnt Offering as a Pleasing Aroma")), indicating that the offering successfully achieved its purpose of reconciliation and worship, allowing God's presence to remain among His people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The continual burnt offering of Numbers 28:6, with its daily repetition and emphasis on a "sweet savour" to the Lord, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament sacrifices, though divinely commanded, were inherently incomplete, serving as a shadow of the reality to come (as illuminated in [Hebrews 10:1](/hebrews/10-1 "Hebrews 10:1 - The Law as a Shadow of Good Things to Come")). Jesus, as the perfect [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), offered Himself once for all time, a single, perfect sacrifice that eternally atones for sin and completely satisfies God's righteous demands. His offering was not merely a "sweet savour" but the very essence of divine pleasure, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God (as described in [Ephesians 5:2](/ephesians/5-2 "Ephesians 5:2 - Christ's Sacrifice as a Fragrant Offering")). Unlike the daily, unending need for the *olah tamid*, Christ's sacrifice on the cross was a finished work, rendering all subsequent animal sacrifices obsolete because He "sat down at the right hand of God, having offered one sacrifice for sins forever" ([Hebrews 10:12](/hebrews/10-12 "Hebrews 10:12 - Christ's One Sacrifice Forever")). Through His blood, believers now have direct and continual access to God, not through the smoke of a burning altar, but through the living and abiding reality of His perfect atonement, enabling us to offer spiritual sacrifices of praise and service that are truly pleasing to God ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Spiritual Sacrifices through Christ")).

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

Amos 5:25

Have ye offered unto me sacrifices and offerings in the wilderness forty years, O house of Israel?

Exodus 29:38

¶ Now this [is that] which thou shalt offer upon the altar; two lambs of the first year day by day continually.

Exodus 29:42

[This shall be] a continual burnt offering throughout your generations [at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation before the LORD: where I will meet you, to speak there unto thee.

Exodus 31:18

And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.

Ezra 3:4

They kept also the feast of tabernacles, as [it is] written, and [offered] the daily burnt offerings by number, according to the custom, as the duty of every day required;

Leviticus 6:9

Command Aaron and his sons, saying, This [is] the law of the burnt offering: It [is] the burnt offering, because of the burning upon the altar all night unto the morning, and the fire of the altar shall be burning in it.

2 Chronicles 2:4

Behold, I build an house to the name of the LORD my God, to dedicate [it] to him, [and] to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual shewbread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the LORD our God. This [is an ordinance] for ever to Israel.