Numbers 28:21

Numbers 28:21 is a specific instruction regarding the grain offering (meal offering) that was to accompany each of the seven lambs offered daily during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. This verse highlights the meticulous detail God required in the worship and sacrificial system of ancient Israel.

Context

This verse is part of the extensive legal and ceremonial instructions given by God to Moses for the Israelites, found in the Book of Numbers. Chapters 28 and 29 meticulously outline the offerings required for various festivals and holy days throughout the year. Specifically, Numbers 28:21 refers to the daily burnt offerings during the seven days of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which immediately followed Passover. During this week, in addition to the two young bullocks and one ram, seven lambs of the first year were to be offered daily as a burnt offering, and this verse specifies the exact grain accompaniment for each of those seven lambs.

Key Themes

• Precision in Worship: God's commands were remarkably detailed, leaving no room for arbitrary worship. This verse underscores the importance of exactness and adherence to divine instruction in Israelite religious practice.
• Completeness and Sufficiency: The offering of "a several tenth deal for every lamb" emphasizes that each part of the sacrifice was to be complete and sufficient according to God's standard, not merely a general amount.
• Obedience and Reverence: The detailed nature of these laws taught the Israelites profound obedience and reverence for God. Their worship was not casual but a solemn, prescribed act of devotion.
• God's Provision: The grain offering, often made from flour, represented the fruit of the land and human labor, acknowledging God as the ultimate provider of sustenance and blessing.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "a several tenth deal" translates the Hebrew term `isaron` (עִשָּׂרוֹן), which literally means "a tenth part." This refers to a specific measurement, one-tenth of an `ephah` (אֵיפָה), which was a common dry measure. An `ephah` was approximately 22 liters or about half a bushel. Thus, a "tenth deal" was roughly 2.2 liters of fine flour. The KJV's "several" clarifies that this specific amount was distinctively designated for *each* lamb, not a collective amount for all seven.

Practical Application

While the Old Testament sacrificial system is no longer practiced due to Christ's once-for-all sacrifice, the principles embedded in these detailed commands remain relevant. This verse reminds us:

• Intentional Worship: God desires intentionality and thoughtfulness in our approach to Him. Our worship, whether personal devotion or corporate gathering, should be considered and offered with reverence.
• Giving Our Best: The precision in offerings teaches us to give our best to God, not just leftovers or what is convenient. This applies to our time, talents, and resources.
• Obedience Matters: Even seemingly small details in God's commands are significant. Our obedience reflects our love and trust in Him.
• Spiritual Sacrifices: Today, believers are called to offer spiritual sacrifices of praise, service, and a life dedicated to God, as living expressions of our faith.