Exodus 29:38 (KJV)

What does Exodus 29:38 mean?

Exodus 29:38 gives a specific instruction from God to Moses about offering two young lambs every day on the altar as a regular, ongoing sacrifice. This command sets up a daily routine for worship in Israel, showing that these offerings are to be made continually, not just once.

In this verse, God is speaking to Moses on Mount Sinai, giving detailed directions for how the priests should serve at the newly built altar in the tabernacle. The verse marks the beginning of a section about daily sacrifices, emphasizing that worship and atonement were meant to be a constant part of Israel’s life, not just occasional events.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 29:38

• "offer" (עָשָׂה, ʿasah): While often translated as "to do" or "to make," here it means to "offer" or "present" a sacrifice, highlighting the active role of the priests in carrying out this command.
• "altar" (מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbeach): This word specifically refers to the altar used for sacrifices in the tabernacle, making it clear that these offerings are to be made at the central place of worship.
• "continually" (תָּמִיד, tamid): This word means "always" or "regularly," stressing that the sacrifices are to be offered without interruption, every day.

Why Exodus 29:38 matters

• Exodus 29:38 clarifies that the daily sacrifices were not optional or occasional, but a continual duty for the priests, shaping the rhythm of Israel’s worship life.
• The verse connects to the larger instructions about the tabernacle, showing how God’s presence among the people was to be honored with regular, repeated acts of devotion.
• Understanding the command for continual offerings helps explain later references to "the continual burnt offering" throughout the Old Testament, showing its foundational role in Israel’s relationship with God.