Numbers 7:64

one male goat for a sin offering;

Study Bible

one male goat for a sin offering;
In the context of Numbers 7, the leaders of Israel are presenting offerings for the dedication of the altar. The offering of a male goat for a sin offering is significant in the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites. The sin offering, or "ḥaṭṭā't" in Hebrew, was a sacrifice made to atone for unintentional sins and to purify the people or objects from ceremonial uncleanness. This particular offering underscores the need for atonement and the seriousness of sin in the eyes of God.

The choice of a male goat is consistent with the Levitical laws outlined in Leviticus 4, where a male goat is specified for the sin offering of a leader. This reflects the hierarchical structure of the Israelite community and the responsibility of leaders to maintain purity and holiness. The male goat as a sin offering also points to the substitutionary nature of the sacrifice, where the animal bears the sin of the offerer, prefiguring the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who bore the sins of humanity.

The use of a goat is also significant in the Day of Atonement rituals described in Leviticus 16, where one goat is sacrificed as a sin offering and another is sent into the wilderness as the scapegoat, symbolically carrying away the sins of the people. This dual role of the goat highlights the comprehensive nature of atonement, both in terms of purification and removal of sin.

In a broader biblical context, the sin offering is a type of Christ, who is described in the New Testament as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). The male goat for a sin offering in Numbers 7:64 foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who fulfills and surpasses the Old Testament sacrificial system by offering Himself once for all (Hebrews 10:10).

Culturally, the practice of animal sacrifice was common in the ancient Near East, but the Israelite sacrificial system was unique in its theological significance and its role in the covenant relationship between God and His people. The sin offering was not merely a ritual but a profound expression of repentance, faith, and the need for divine forgiveness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions for the offerings from God.

2. Israelites
The people of God who are in the wilderness, receiving laws and instructions for worship.

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

4. Tribe of Naphtali
The tribe making the offering on this particular day, as part of the dedication of the altar.

5. Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice made to atone for sin, symbolizing purification and forgiveness.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Sin Offering
The sin offering in Numbers 7:64 symbolizes the need for atonement and purification from sin. It points to the seriousness of sin and the necessity of seeking God's forgiveness.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The sin offering foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who provides complete atonement for sin. Believers are called to trust in His finished work on the cross.

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites' adherence to God's instructions for offerings demonstrates the importance of obedience in worship. Christians are encouraged to follow God's commands faithfully.

The Role of Confession and Repentance
Just as the sin offering required acknowledgment of sin, believers today are called to confess and repent, trusting in God's promise of forgiveness.

Community and Worship
The collective participation of the tribes in offering sacrifices highlights the communal aspect of worship. Christians are reminded of the importance of gathering together in worship and supporting one another in faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the sin offering in Numbers 7:64 reflect the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement?

2. In what ways does the sin offering point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, as described in the New Testament?

3. How can we apply the principles of obedience and faithfulness seen in the Israelites' offerings to our own lives today?

4. What role does confession and repentance play in our relationship with God, and how is this reflected in the practice of the sin offering?

5. How can we foster a sense of community and shared worship in our own church or faith community, drawing from the example of the Israelites' collective offerings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides detailed instructions on the sin offering, emphasizing its role in atonement and purification.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the insufficiency of animal sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate sin offering.

1 John 1:9
Highlights the promise of forgiveness and cleansing from sin through confession, connecting to the purpose of the sin offering.