Numbers 29:14

along with the grain offering of three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil with each of the thirteen bulls, two-tenths of an ephah with each of the two rams,

Study Bible

along with the grain offering of three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil with each of the thirteen bulls
The grain offering, also known as the "meal offering," was a significant part of the sacrificial system in ancient Israel. It symbolized the dedication of the fruits of human labor to God, acknowledging His provision. The specific measurement of three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour indicates a substantial offering, reflecting the importance of the sacrifice. Fine flour was a luxury item, representing purity and quality, and the addition of oil signifies the presence of the Holy Spirit, anointing, and consecration. The number thirteen, associated with the bulls, is significant in the context of the Feast of Tabernacles, where these offerings were made. This feast celebrated God's provision and protection during the Israelites' wilderness journey, and the bulls represented strength and leadership. The sacrificial system foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself as the perfect and final offering for sin.

two-tenths of an ephah with each of the two rams
The offering of two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour with each ram highlights the importance of the rams in the sacrificial system. Rams were often used in burnt offerings and symbolized atonement and consecration. The number two can represent witness and testimony, suggesting the role of these offerings in bearing witness to God's covenant with His people. The grain offering accompanying the rams underscores the theme of dedication and thanksgiving. In the broader biblical narrative, rams are significant in various contexts, such as the ram provided by God as a substitute for Isaac in Genesis 22, prefiguring Christ's substitutionary atonement. The meticulous detail in these offerings reflects the holiness and orderliness required in worship, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who perfectly fulfilled the law and the prophets.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people to whom the laws and instructions were given, including the sacrificial system.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the law from God and communicated it to the people.

3. Tabernacle
The place where the Israelites performed sacrifices and offerings as part of their worship to God.

4. Feast of Tabernacles
The context of this passage, a significant festival in the Jewish calendar, celebrating God's provision and presence.

5. Sacrificial System
The system of offerings and sacrifices that were central to Israelite worship and obedience to God.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Sacrificial System
The detailed instructions for offerings highlight the importance of obedience and reverence in worship.

Symbolism of the Offerings
The grain offerings, mixed with oil, symbolize dedication and the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life.

God's Provision and Presence
The Feast of Tabernacles reminds us of God's provision and His desire to dwell among His people.

Fulfillment in Christ
The sacrificial system points to Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice, who fulfills the law and offers us a new covenant.

Living Sacrifices
As believers, we are called to present our lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, in response to His mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed nature of the sacrificial instructions in Numbers 29:14 reflect God's character and expectations for worship?

2. In what ways does the Feast of Tabernacles serve as a reminder of God's provision and presence in our lives today?

3. How can understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system deepen our appreciation for Christ's sacrifice as described in Hebrews 10?

4. What does it mean to offer ourselves as living sacrifices in the context of Romans 12, and how can we apply this in our daily lives?

5. How can we ensure that our worship and offerings to God are genuine and not merely ritualistic, as emphasized in Psalm 51?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
Provides a broader context for the Feast of Tabernacles, detailing its significance and the required offerings.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the fulfillment of the sacrificial system in Christ, emphasizing the once-for-all nature of His sacrifice.

Exodus 29
Describes the consecration of the priests and the importance of offerings in maintaining a relationship with God.

Psalm 51
Highlights the heart attitude behind sacrifices, emphasizing that God desires a contrite heart over mere ritual.

Romans 12
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the Old Testament sacrificial system.