Numbers 29:11

Include one male goat for a sin offering, in addition to the sin offering of atonement and the regular burnt offering with its grain offering and drink offerings.

Study Bible

You are also to offer
This phrase indicates a command from God, emphasizing the importance of obedience in worship. The Hebrew root for "offer" is "קָרַב" (qarab), meaning to bring near or present. This reflects the act of drawing near to God through sacrifice, a central theme in the Old Testament. The Israelites were reminded that their relationship with God required active participation and adherence to His instructions.

one male goat
The specification of a "male goat" as a sin offering is significant. In Hebrew, "עֵז" (ez) refers to a goat, often used in sacrificial contexts. The male goat was a common sin offering, symbolizing the need for purity and atonement. Historically, goats were valuable livestock, and offering one signified a meaningful sacrifice, underscoring the seriousness of sin and the cost of reconciliation with God.

as a sin offering
The term "sin offering" comes from the Hebrew "חַטָּאת" (chatta'ath), which denotes a sacrifice made to atone for sin. This offering was essential for maintaining holiness and purity among the Israelites. It highlights the gravity of sin and the necessity of atonement, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the need for sin offerings once and for all.

in addition to the sin offering for atonement
This phrase underscores the layered nature of the sacrificial system. The "sin offering for atonement" was a specific sacrifice to reconcile the people with God. The Hebrew word for atonement, "כָּפַר" (kaphar), means to cover or make amends. This reflects the covering of sin, a temporary measure until the perfect atonement through Christ. The additional offering signifies the comprehensive nature of atonement required under the Law.

and the regular burnt offering
The "regular burnt offering" refers to the daily sacrifices commanded in the Law. The Hebrew "עֹלָה" (olah) means a burnt offering, symbolizing complete surrender to God, as the offering was entirely consumed by fire. This regular practice instilled a rhythm of worship and dedication, reminding the Israelites of their continual need for God's presence and favor.

with its grain offering
The "grain offering," or "מִנְחָה" (minchah) in Hebrew, was a tribute to God, often consisting of fine flour, oil, and frankincense. It represented the fruits of human labor and gratitude for God's provision. This offering accompanied burnt offerings, symbolizing the dedication of one's work and sustenance to God, acknowledging Him as the source of all blessings.

and their drink offerings
The "drink offerings," or "נֶסֶךְ" (nesek) in Hebrew, involved pouring out wine as an offering to God. This act symbolized the pouring out of one's life in service and devotion. It complemented the grain and burnt offerings, creating a holistic expression of worship that engaged every aspect of life—material, spiritual, and communal.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the laws and instructions from God, including the sacrificial system outlined in Numbers.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were given these instructions to follow as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites where sacrifices and offerings were made.

4. Day of Atonement
A significant event in the Jewish calendar, a day dedicated to atonement and repentance, which is part of the context for this verse.

5. Sin Offering
A specific type of sacrifice made to atone for sins, highlighting the need for purification and reconciliation with God.

Teaching Points

The Necessity of Atonement
The inclusion of a sin offering underscores the necessity of atonement for sin. It reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the need for reconciliation with God.

The Holiness of God
The detailed instructions for offerings highlight God's holiness and the importance of approaching Him with reverence and obedience.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The sacrificial system points forward to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate sin offering, fulfilling the requirements of the law once and for all.

Regular Worship and Sacrifice
The regularity of offerings teaches the importance of consistent worship and dedication in our relationship with God.

Community and Individual Responsibility
The communal aspect of these offerings reminds us of our responsibility to support one another in our spiritual journeys.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a sin offering in Numbers 29:11 help us understand the nature of sin and its consequences?

2. In what ways does the Day of Atonement foreshadow the work of Christ as described in the New Testament?

3. How can we apply the principle of regular worship and sacrifice in our daily lives today?

4. What does the requirement for a sin offering teach us about God's character and His expectations for His people?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, support each other in maintaining a right relationship with God, similar to the communal aspect of the offerings in Numbers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 16
Provides a detailed description of the Day of Atonement, including the role of the sin offering in the atonement process.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the limitations of the Old Testament sacrificial system and points to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of these sacrifices.

Isaiah 53
Prophesies about the suffering servant who would bear the sins of many, connecting to the concept of atonement and sacrifice.