Numbers 7:45

One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:

One {H259} young {H1241} bullock {H6499}, one {H259} ram {H352}, one {H259} lamb {H3532} of the first {H1121} year {H8141}, for a burnt offering {H5930}:

one young bull, one ram, one male lamb in its first year as a burnt offering,

one young bull, one ram, and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering;

one young bullock, one ram, one he-lamb a year old, for a burnt-offering;

Commentary

Numbers 7:45 is part of a detailed account of the dedication offerings brought by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel for the newly consecrated Tabernacle and its altar. This specific verse lists the animals designated "for a burnt offering" on the seventh day of these dedication ceremonies, brought by Elishama, leader of the tribe of Ephraim.

Context

Following the construction and anointing of the Tabernacle and its furnishings (as detailed in the latter part of Exodus, especially Exodus 40:34), Numbers chapter 7 records the generous and identical offerings brought by each tribal leader over twelve consecutive days. These offerings were essential for the formal inauguration of the Tabernacle as the central place of worship and atonement for the Israelites. Each day featured specific animals for various types of sacrifices, including burnt offerings, sin offerings, and peace offerings, along with grain and drink offerings. Verse 45 specifies the animals for the burnt offering, highlighting the meticulous nature of God's commands regarding worship.

Key Themes

  • Complete Dedication and Consecration: The burnt offering (Hebrew: olah, meaning "that which ascends" or "goes up") was unique in that the entire animal, except for the hide, was consumed by fire on the altar. This symbolized complete surrender, devotion, and consecration to God. The offering was wholly given to the Lord, indicating a desire for full communion and atonement.
  • Atonement and Cleansing: While not a sin offering, the burnt offering played a significant role in the atonement process, making the worshiper acceptable before God. It was a general offering of reconciliation and a demonstration of devotion.
  • Obedience and Order: The precise instructions regarding the types and numbers of animals for each offering underscore God's demand for specific, orderly worship. The meticulous adherence to these commands by the tribal leaders demonstrated their obedience and reverence.
  • Generosity in Worship: The sheer volume and value of the offerings over twelve days highlight the Israelites' commitment to God and the importance placed on the Tabernacle's service. It was a collective act of national worship and commitment.

Linguistic Insights

The term "burnt offering" translates the Hebrew word olah (עֹלָה), which derives from a root meaning "to ascend" or "to go up." This aptly describes the nature of the sacrifice, where the smoke and aroma of the consumed animal ascended to God, symbolizing the worshiper's devotion and the offering's acceptance. This concept of ascent is central to understanding the spiritual dimension of this ancient ritual, pointing to a desire for closeness with the divine.

Practical Application

While the Old Testament sacrificial system has been fulfilled in Christ, the principles behind the burnt offering remain profoundly relevant. For believers today, the concept of the olah encourages a life of complete dedication and surrender to God. We are called to offer ourselves as "living sacrifices," holy and pleasing to God, which is our spiritual act of worship. This means giving our whole selves—our time, talents, resources, and will—to His service, trusting in the ultimate and perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself once for all to atone for our sins (Hebrews 10:10). The meticulous nature of the Old Testament offerings also reminds us that God desires not just any worship, but worship offered in spirit and in truth, with reverence and intentionality.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Corinthians 5:21 (2 votes)

    For he hath made him [to be] sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

  • Psalms 66:15 (2 votes)

    I will offer unto thee burnt sacrifices of fatlings, with the incense of rams; I will offer bullocks with goats. Selah.

  • Isaiah 53:4 (2 votes)

    ¶ Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.