Numbers 28:22 (KJV)

What does Numbers 28:22 mean?

Numbers 28:22 commands that one goat be offered as a sin offering to make atonement for the people. This instruction is part of a set of detailed sacrifices God required from the Israelites for forgiveness and cleansing.

In this passage, God is speaking to Moses, giving him specific instructions for the Israelites about their regular offerings. The context is a list of sacrifices to be made during special times, and the goat as a sin offering highlights the need for atonement—covering or removing sin—so the people could remain in right relationship with God.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 28:22

• "one" (אֶחָד, 'echad'): This word emphasizes that only a single goat is required for this particular sin offering, pointing to the specific and intentional nature of the sacrifice.
• "goat" (שָּׂעִיר, sa‘ir): The choice of a goat for the sin offering was common in Israelite rituals, often seen as a suitable animal for bearing away sin.
• "offering" (חַטָּאָה, chatta’ah): This word is often translated as "sin offering," and it refers to a sacrifice made specifically to deal with sin or impurity.
• "atonement" (כָּפַר, kaphar): This verb means "to cover" or "to make atonement," carrying the idea of covering over sin so that the relationship between God and the people could be restored.

Why Numbers 28:22 matters

• Numbers 28:22 clarifies that atonement was not automatic; it required a specific sacrifice, showing the seriousness with which sin was treated in Israelite worship.
• The verse connects to the broader passage by showing how each offering had a distinct purpose and meaning, not just a ritual to be performed but a way to address real spiritual needs.
• This verse helps readers see the careful structure and intention behind Old Testament sacrifices, highlighting the importance of following God's instructions exactly as given.