Numbers 29:38

Context of Numbers 29:38

Numbers 29:38 is part of an extensive section in the book of Numbers (chapters 28-29) that meticulously details the sacrificial calendar for the Israelites. Specifically, this verse concludes the instructions for the offerings to be made on the eighth day of the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot), also known as the Feast of Ingathering. This final day was a solemn assembly, distinct from the seven days of the feast, and marked by specific, diminishing numbers of animal sacrifices compared to the preceding days. The mention of "the continual burnt offering, and his meat offering, and his drink offering" highlights that these daily, regular sacrifices were always to be observed in addition to any special festival offerings.

Key Themes and Messages

• Atonement and Purification: The inclusion of "one goat for a sin offering" on this final day underscores the persistent need for atonement for sins, even amidst joyous celebration. The sin offering (Hebrew: hatta't) was crucial for ritually cleansing the people and the sanctuary from unintentional sins or impurities, ensuring the holiness required for fellowship with God.
• God's Meticulous Provision: The detailed instructions for each offering, down to the specific animals and their accompanying grain and drink offerings, demonstrate God's meticulous care in establishing a system by which His people could approach Him and find forgiveness. It illustrates His desire for a holy relationship with Israel.
• Foreshadowing of Christ's Sacrifice: All Old Testament sin offerings, including this goat, pointed forward to the ultimate and perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Unlike the repeated animal sacrifices that could only cover sins temporarily, Christ's death on the cross was a once-for-all atonement for the sins of humanity, making a permanent way for reconciliation with God. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
• Continual Dependence on God: The phrase "beside the continual burnt offering" emphasizes that even during special festival celebrations, the daily, foundational acts of worship and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty were not to be neglected. This speaks to a life of ongoing devotion and reliance on God's grace.

Linguistic Insights

• "Sin offering" (חַטָּאת - hatta't): This Hebrew term refers not only to an offering for sin but also broadly to an offering that purifies or cleanses from ritual impurity or unintentional transgression. It highlights the need for purification to maintain a holy standing before God.
• "Continual burnt offering" (עֹלַת הַתָּמִיד - olat hat-tamid): The word tamid signifies "continual" or "regular," denoting an offering made daily, morning and evening, throughout the year. It signifies the unbroken communion and dedication owed to God.

Practical Application

Numbers 29:38, though detailing an ancient ritual, offers timeless spiritual truths. It reminds us of the persistent reality of sin and the constant need for God's grace and forgiveness. For believers today, it deepens our appreciation for the finished work of Christ. We no longer offer animal sacrifices, but we live in light of His perfect sacrifice, which has provided complete cleansing and access to God. This verse encourages us to live a life of ongoing gratitude, seeking purity, and recognizing our continual dependence on God's provision for our spiritual well-being.