Numbers 29:28 (KJV)

What does Numbers 29:28 mean?

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.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 29:28

• "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.

Why Numbers 29:28 matters

• 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.