What is the meaning of Numbers 29:11?

Include one male goat

- God specifies a male goat—an animal already regarded as valuable and sturdy—to underscore that sin costs something precious (Leviticus 4:23–24; Hebrews 9:22).

- The singular “one” highlights personal accountability; each Israelite community could picture this one animal standing in their place (Exodus 12:3–5).

- Male animals without defect mirrored Christ, the spotless Lamb who would once for all bear our sin (John 1:29; 1 Peter 1:19).

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for a sin offering

- A sin offering dealt with unintentional sins and impurity (Leviticus 4:1–12). Here, even at the climactic Day of Atonement festival week, God reminds His people that hidden faults still need covering (Psalm 19:12; 1 John 1:7).

- The sacrifice was not optional; holiness requires payment. Yet God Himself provided the means, foreshadowing the gospel truth that salvation is by grace, not human ingenuity (Ephesians 2:8–9).

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in addition to the sin offering of atonement

- This phrase shows layers of provision. The special Day of Atonement rites in Leviticus 16 had already secured national cleansing. Still, God orders another goat here, revealing the depth of His desire to keep communion open (Micah 7:18–19).

- It teaches believers never to take atonement lightly; ongoing repentance should follow the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ (Hebrews 10:14, 22).

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and the regular burnt offering

- Daily burnt offerings (Numbers 28:3–4) proclaimed total dedication, every morning and evening. By adding the sin offering to the regular rhythm, God intertwines forgiveness with devotion—both must mark worship (Romans 12:1; Colossians 3:17).

- The burnt offering was wholly consumed, symbolizing complete surrender. When sin is addressed, wholehearted worship naturally follows.

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with its grain offering and drink offerings

- Grain and drink offerings expressed gratitude and fellowship after atonement had been made (Leviticus 2:1–10; Philippians 4:18).

- Wine poured out pictured joy overflowing, pointing ahead to the new covenant cup (Luke 22:20).

- The order matters: sin offering first (cleansing), burnt offering next (consecration), grain and drink last (communion). God lays out a gospel pattern still relevant: cleansing, surrender, celebration.

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summary

Numbers 29:11 layers one more goat onto an already packed Day of Atonement schedule to spotlight how seriously God treats sin and how lavishly He provides forgiveness. The verse reveals a progression—cleansing from sin, wholehearted dedication, and joyful fellowship—that ultimately finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the perfect sacrifice who brings us into continual, grateful communion with the Father.