Numbers 28:21 (KJV)

What does Numbers 28:21 mean?

Numbers 28:21 instructs that for each of the seven lambs offered as part of a special sacrifice, a separate tenth of an ephah (a measure of grain) must be given as a grain offering. This means each lamb is to have its own specific portion, not shared or combined.

In this verse, God is giving Moses detailed instructions for the daily offerings during a festival, speaking to the Israelites through Moses. The focus is on careful, individual attention to each lamb in the ritual, emphasizing order and precision in how the offerings are to be made.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 28:21

• "deal" (עִשָּׂרוֹן, ʿissaron): This word refers to a "tenth part," specifically a tenth of an ephah, which is a standard measure for grain offerings. The use of this word shows the exact amount required for each lamb, highlighting the importance of following the set portion.
• "offer" (עָשָׂה, ʿasah): This verb means "to do" or "to make," and here it refers to the act of presenting or preparing the offering. The word carries the sense of actively carrying out the ritual as instructed.
• "every" (אֶחָד, ʾechad): This word means "each" or "every," making it clear that the instruction applies individually to each lamb, not as a group.
• "lamb" (כֶּבֶשׂ, keves) and "lambs" (כֶּבֶשׂ, keves): The repetition of this word underlines that the offering is specifically for lambs, and that each one is treated separately.
• "seven" (שֶׁבַע, sheva): This word marks the total number of lambs involved in this particular offering, connecting this verse to the larger context of the festival sacrifices.

Why Numbers 28:21 matters

• Numbers 28:21 clarifies that each lamb in the offering receives its own grain portion, preventing any confusion about combining or dividing offerings among the animals.
• This verse highlights the careful structure and order of Israelite worship, showing that every detail mattered in following God's instructions.
• The verse fits into a larger passage about festival offerings, helping readers see how each part of the ritual was carefully regulated and why precision was important in the community's relationship with God.