Numbers 29:6

These are in addition to the monthly and daily burnt offerings with their prescribed grain offerings and drink offerings. They are a pleasing aroma, an offering made by fire to the LORD.

Study Bible

These are in addition to the monthly and daily burnt offerings
This phrase highlights the additional nature of these offerings, emphasizing the regularity and structure of Israelite worship. The monthly offerings, or "new moon" sacrifices, were significant in marking time and seasons (Numbers 28:11-15). Daily burnt offerings, known as the "tamid," were offered every morning and evening (Exodus 29:38-42). This regularity underscores the importance of continual devotion and the need for constant atonement and communion with God. The concept of additional offerings points to the idea that worship and sacrifice are not limited to specific times but are an ongoing commitment.

with their prescribed grain offerings and drink offerings
Grain and drink offerings accompanied burnt offerings, symbolizing the dedication of the fruits of labor to God. The grain offering, or "minchah," often consisted of fine flour, oil, and frankincense (Leviticus 2:1-16), representing sustenance and the work of human hands. The drink offering, or "nesek," typically involved wine (Exodus 29:40), symbolizing joy and celebration. These offerings reflect the holistic nature of worship, involving both the spiritual and material aspects of life. They also prefigure the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who offered Himself wholly for humanity.

They are a pleasing aroma
The phrase "pleasing aroma" is a recurring motif in the sacrificial system (Genesis 8:21, Leviticus 1:9). It signifies God's acceptance of the offering and the worshiper's sincere devotion. The aroma metaphorically represents the satisfaction and delight God finds in the obedience and faithfulness of His people. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where Christ's sacrifice is described as a "fragrant offering" (Ephesians 5:2), indicating divine approval and fulfillment of the sacrificial system.

a food offering to the LORD
The term "food offering" underscores the idea of providing sustenance, not in a literal sense for God, but symbolically representing fellowship and communion. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, sharing a meal was a sign of covenant and relationship. This offering signifies the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where the people acknowledge God's provision and sovereignty. It also points to the Eucharistic themes in the New Testament, where believers partake in the body and blood of Christ, symbolizing spiritual nourishment and unity with God (1 Corinthians 10:16-17).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are given specific instructions on how to worship and offer sacrifices.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who receives and communicates God's laws and instructions to the people.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence, where sacrifices and offerings are made.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who commands the offerings and is the recipient of the sacrifices.

5. The Sacrifices
Specific offerings made by fire, including burnt offerings, grain offerings, and drink offerings, which are a pleasing aroma to the LORD.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Sacrificial System
The sacrificial system was a means for the Israelites to maintain a right relationship with God. It points to the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.

The Pleasing Aroma
The phrase "a pleasing aroma" signifies God's acceptance of the offerings. It reminds us that our worship and sacrifices should be genuine and pleasing to God.

Christ as the Fulfillment
Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system. His sacrifice on the cross was once and for all, making the Old Testament sacrifices a foreshadowing of His redemptive work.

Daily Worship and Sacrifice
Just as the Israelites had daily offerings, Christians are called to daily worship and dedication to God, offering themselves as living sacrifices.

Heart Posture in Worship
God desires a heart that is humble and contrite over mere ritualistic offerings. Our worship should be heartfelt and sincere.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the sacrificial system in Numbers 29:6 point to the need for a Savior?

2. In what ways can we offer "a pleasing aroma" to God in our daily lives today?

3. How does understanding the Old Testament sacrifices enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice?

4. What are some practical ways we can present our bodies as living sacrifices, as mentioned in Romans 12:1?

5. How can we ensure that our worship is genuine and not just a ritual, in light of Psalm 51:16-17?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
This chapter outlines the appointed feasts of the LORD, providing context for the additional offerings mentioned in Numbers 29:6.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the New Covenant.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the sacrificial system as a form of worship.

Psalm 51:16-17
Highlights the importance of a contrite heart over ritual sacrifices, emphasizing the heart's posture in worship.