Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the term "yearling" typically refers to an animal that is one year old. This term is often used in the context of sacrificial offerings, where specific instructions were given regarding the age and type of animals to be offered to God. The use of yearlings in sacrifices underscores the importance of offering the best and most valuable animals to the Lord, as yearlings were considered to be in their prime.Old Testament References The concept of yearlings is most prominently featured in the Old Testament, particularly in the books of the Law, where God provides detailed instructions for various offerings. In Exodus 12:5, the Israelites are instructed regarding the Passover lamb: "Your lamb must be an unblemished year-old male, and you may take it from the sheep or the goats." This command highlights the requirement for the Passover sacrifice to be a yearling, symbolizing purity and perfection. Similarly, in Leviticus 9:3, Moses instructs Aaron and the Israelites: "Then to the Israelites you are to say, ‘Take a male goat for a sin offering, a calf and a lamb, both a year old and without blemish, for a burnt offering.’" Here, the yearling calf and lamb are specified for the burnt offering, emphasizing the need for offerings that are without blemish and in their prime. Symbolism and Significance Yearlings, being young and vigorous, symbolize the offering of one's best to God. The requirement for yearlings in sacrificial practices reflects the broader biblical principle of giving God the first and finest of what one possesses. This principle is echoed in Proverbs 3:9, which states, "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest." The use of yearlings also points to the foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice. Just as the Israelites were to offer unblemished yearlings, Christ is described as the Lamb of God, without blemish or defect, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). The sacrificial system, including the offering of yearlings, serves as a precursor to the perfect and final sacrifice made by Jesus. Practical Considerations In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, yearlings represented a significant investment. They were at an age where they had survived the vulnerable early months of life and were approaching maturity, making them valuable for both breeding and labor. Offering a yearling, therefore, was a tangible expression of faith and obedience, as it required the giver to trust in God's provision for the future. The requirement for yearlings in sacrifices also ensured that the offerings were of high quality. Animals that were too young or too old might not have been as healthy or robust, and thus not as fitting for a sacrifice meant to honor God. Conclusion The biblical instructions regarding yearlings in sacrificial offerings highlight the importance of giving God the best of what one has. Through these practices, the Israelites were reminded of God's holiness and their need for atonement, while also pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The use of yearlings in the sacrificial system underscores the broader biblical theme of offering one's best to God in worship and devotion. Library Of Removing Tithes. Thesaurus Yearlings (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Yearlings (2 Occurrences). Leviticus 9:3 and to the children of Israel shalt thou speak, saying, Take a ... /y/yearlings.htm - 7k Buck (23 Occurrences) Yearly (16 Occurrences) Yearling-lamb (1 Occurrence) Odour (43 Occurrences) He-lambs (34 Occurrences) Oblation (208 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Yearlings (2 Occurrences)Leviticus 9:3 Leviticus 23:19 Subtopics Related Terms |
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