Command the children of Israel, and say unto them, My offering, and my bread for my sacrifices made by fire, for a sweet savour unto me, shall ye observe to offer unto me in their due season.
NUMBERS 28:2KJVWhat does Numbers 28:2 mean?
Numbers 28:2 records God instructing Moses to command the Israelites to be careful in offering the sacrifices that belong to Him, including the offerings described as His "bread" and those made by fire, at the appointed times. The verse emphasizes that these offerings are to be made as a pleasing aroma to God and must be given at the specific times He has set.
In this verse, God is speaking directly to Moses, who is then to relay these instructions to the people of Israel. The context is the beginning of a section where God lays out the regular sacrifices and offerings that the Israelites are to bring, highlighting their importance and the need for careful observance. The language shows that these offerings are not just rituals, but are considered God’s own portion, and the timing of them is not left up to personal choice but is set by God Himself.
The Hebrew behind Numbers 28:2
- "Offering" (קָרְבָּנִי, qor-bani): This word refers to something brought near or presented, often used for sacrifices or offerings given to God. It highlights that what is being offered is meant to draw the worshipper close to God.
- "Bread" (לֶחֶם, lechem): While "bread" usually means food, here it stands for the portion of the offerings that is considered God's food, symbolizing His share of the sacrifice.
- "Observe" (שָׁמַר, shamar): This word means to keep, guard, or watch carefully. It stresses that the Israelites are to pay close attention to the timing and manner of these offerings, not treating them casually.
- "Season" (מוֹעֵד, mo'ed): This word means an appointed time or set feast. It shows that the offerings are to be made according to a fixed schedule, not whenever people feel like it.
Why Numbers 28:2 matters
- Numbers 28:2 clarifies that the regular offerings are not optional or arbitrary, but are commanded by God and must be given at specific, appointed times.
- The verse highlights the seriousness with which God views these offerings, describing them as His own "bread" and "sweet savour," which shows a personal connection to the sacrifices.
- This instruction sets the stage for the detailed list of daily, weekly, and seasonal offerings that follows, helping the reader understand the structure and rhythm of Israel’s worship life as God intended it.