And one kid of the goats for a sin offering; beside the continual burnt offering, and the meat offering thereof, and their drink offerings.

NUMBERS 29:19KJV
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Numbers 29:19 (KJV)

What does Numbers 29:19 mean?

Numbers 29:19 instructs that, in addition to the regular daily offerings, the Israelites were to present one young male goat as a sin offering, along with the usual burnt offering, grain offering, and drink offerings. This verse emphasizes that these special sacrifices were to be offered alongside, not instead of, the continual daily sacrifices.

Moses is relaying God’s instructions to the Israelites about the sacrifices required during the festival period. The verse is part of a detailed list of offerings for specific days, showing the careful order and extra sacrifices expected during these holy times. The mention of the sin offering highlights the need for atonement even during times of celebration.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 29:19

  • חַטָּאת (chatta't; "sin offering"): This word refers to an offering made to address sin and restore the relationship between the people and God. Its presence here shows that atonement was always part of Israel’s worship, even during festivals.
  • תָּמִיד (tamid; "continual"): This word describes the regular, ongoing burnt offering that was made every day. The verse’s use of "continual" clarifies that these special festival offerings did not replace the daily sacrifices but were added to them.
  • עֹלָה (olah; "burnt offering"): This term means a sacrifice that is completely burned on the altar. Its mention here, along with the sin offering, shows the layered nature of Israel’s sacrificial system—different offerings served different purposes.

Why Numbers 29:19 matters

  • Numbers 29:19 clarifies that special festival sacrifices were always in addition to, not a substitute for, the daily offerings, showing the importance of regular worship routines.
  • The verse highlights that even during joyful festivals, the need for atonement and reflection on sin remained central in Israel’s relationship with God.
  • This instruction fits into a larger section detailing the precise and orderly way Israel was to approach God, revealing the seriousness and structure of their worship life.