Numbers 15:5 (KJV)

What does Numbers 15:5 mean?

Numbers 15:5 instructs that with every burnt offering or sacrifice of one lamb, a quarter of a hin of wine should be prepared as a drink offering. This verse gives a specific requirement for the amount of wine to accompany the animal sacrifice in Israel’s worship.

In this passage, God is giving Moses detailed instructions for the Israelites about how to present offerings once they are in the Promised Land. The focus here is on the proper way to bring a lamb as a burnt offering or other sacrifice, including the addition of a measured amount of wine as part of the ritual. This shows the careful attention to detail in Israel’s worship practices.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 15:5

• "hin" (הִין, hin): This is an ancient Hebrew unit of liquid measure, often estimated at about 3.8 to 6 liters (roughly 1 to 1.5 gallons). The mention of a "fourth part" means about a quart or a liter of wine, showing the specific quantity required.
• "wine" (יַיִן, yayin): The word refers to fermented grape juice, not just grape juice. Its use as a drink offering (נֶסֶךְ, nesekh—not tagged here, but implied by "offering") was a symbol of dedication and celebration in worship.
• "offering" (מִנְחָה, minchah): In this context, the drink offering is an addition to the main animal sacrifice, highlighting that worship involved more than just the animal—it included grain and drink as well.
• "burnt offering" (עֹלָה, olah) and "sacrifice" (זֶבַח, zevach): These terms distinguish between types of offerings, with the burnt offering being completely consumed by fire, and "sacrifice" covering a broader range of offerings.

Why Numbers 15:5 matters

• Numbers 15:5 clarifies that worship in ancient Israel was not only about the animal but also included other elements like wine, showing a fuller picture of their sacrificial system.
• The verse emphasizes precision and care in following God’s instructions, reflecting the seriousness with which the Israelites were to approach worship.
• This detail connects to the wider passage, which outlines how offerings should be made once the people are settled in the land, reminding them that their worship practices were to continue and be carefully maintained even after their journey.