And they sacrificed sacrifices unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings unto the LORD, on the morrow after that day, even a thousand bullocks, a thousand rams, and a thousand lambs, with their drink offerings, and sacrifices in abundance for all Israel:
1 CHRONICLES 29:21KJVWhat does 1 Chronicles 29:21 mean?
1 Chronicles 29:21 describes how, the day after a major event, the Israelites offered a large number of animal sacrifices and drink offerings to the LORD, making abundant sacrifices on behalf of all Israel. This verse highlights the scale and communal nature of their worship, showing their dedication and gratitude to God.
This verse is set at the end of King David’s reign, during the transition of leadership to Solomon and the preparations for building the temple. The people, led by their leaders, come together to celebrate and dedicate themselves to God through these offerings. The detailed mention of the numbers and types of animals sacrificed emphasizes both the generosity of the people and the importance of this moment in Israel’s history.
The Hebrew behind 1 Chronicles 29:21
- "Sacrificed" (זָבַח, zāvaḥ) and "sacrifices" (זֶבַח, zevaḥ): Both words are related, with the verb meaning "to slaughter for sacrifice" and the noun referring to the actual offerings. Their use here underlines the act of dedicating something valuable to God.
- "Offered" (עָלָה, ‘ālāh) and "offerings" (עֹלָה, ‘ōlāh): The verb means "to go up" or "to ascend," and the noun refers specifically to burnt offerings that are wholly consumed by fire. This stresses the complete devotion of these offerings to God.
- "Abundance" (רֹב, rov): This word points to the great quantity of sacrifices, highlighting the people’s wholehearted participation and the extraordinary nature of the event.
Why 1 Chronicles 29:21 matters
- This verse clarifies that the offerings were not just symbolic but involved real, significant resources, showing the people’s deep commitment.
- The scale of the sacrifices connects to the larger narrative of Israel’s unity and collective worship as they prepare for a new era under Solomon.
- By naming the types and numbers of animals, the verse emphasizes the careful organization and seriousness with which the people approached their relationship with God at this key moment.