Question 1

What does Numbers 29:28 mean?

Accepted Answer

Numbers 29:28 describes the requirement to offer one goat as a sin offering, in addition to the regular daily burnt offering, its grain offering, and its drink offering. This instruction is part of a larger set of commands about sacrifices during Israel’s festivals. In this verse, God is giving Moses detailed instructions for the offerings to be made by the Israelites during a specific festival, likely the Feast of Tabernacles. The verse highlights that the sin offering (a goat) is not a replacement but an addition to the daily sacrifices, emphasizing the thoroughness and regularity of Israel’s worship practices.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Numbers 29:28

Accepted Answer

"one" (אֶחָד, ’echad): This word simply means "one," making it clear that only a single goat is required for the sin offering on this occasion. "goat" (שָׂעִיר, sa‘ir): This term refers specifically to a male goat, which was commonly used for sin offerings, symbolizing atonement. "offering" (חַטָּאת, chatta’t): This word means "sin offering," highlighting that the goat is meant to address sin and restore the relationship between the people and God. "continual" (תָּמִיד, tamid): This word describes the regular, ongoing nature of the daily burnt offering, showing that these festival sacrifices are in addition to—not instead of—the daily routine.

Question 3

Why Numbers 29:28 matters

Accepted Answer

Numbers 29:28 clarifies that special festival offerings did not replace the daily sacrifices but were added to them, showing the layered nature of Israel’s worship. The verse highlights the importance of the sin offering (the goat), reminding readers that atonement was a regular and necessary part of Israel’s relationship with God. This instruction fits into a larger pattern in Numbers 28–29, where each day of the festival has its own set of sacrifices, emphasizing careful obedience and attention to God’s commands.

Numbers 29:28 (KJV)