Numbers 29:16

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

Study Bible

and one male goat
The phrase "one male goat" refers to the specific animal designated for the sin offering. In Hebrew, the word for goat is "sa'ir," which often denotes a hairy or shaggy goat. The male goat, in particular, was a common sacrificial animal in ancient Israelite worship, symbolizing strength and vitality. Historically, goats were abundant in the region, making them a practical choice for offerings. The selection of a male goat underscores the importance of offering something valuable and without blemish to God, reflecting the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.

as a sin offering
The term "sin offering" comes from the Hebrew word "chatta'ah," which signifies an offering made to atone for sin. This type of offering was crucial in the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites, serving as a means to restore the relationship between the people and God. The sin offering was a profound reminder of humanity's fallen nature and the need for divine forgiveness. It prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who, as the Lamb of God, took away the sins of the world.

in addition to the regular burnt offering
The phrase "in addition to the regular burnt offering" indicates that the sin offering was not a replacement but an addition to the daily sacrifices. The "burnt offering," or "olah" in Hebrew, was a continual offering that symbolized the worshiper's total dedication to God. It was entirely consumed by fire, representing the complete surrender of the individual to the divine will. The inclusion of the sin offering alongside the regular burnt offering highlights the comprehensive nature of worship, which involves both atonement for sin and dedication to God.

with its grain and drink offerings
The "grain and drink offerings" were supplementary offerings that accompanied the primary sacrifices. The grain offering, or "minchah" in Hebrew, consisted of fine flour, oil, and frankincense, symbolizing the fruits of human labor and gratitude to God. The drink offering, or "nesek," involved the pouring out of wine, representing joy and celebration in the presence of God. Together, these offerings illustrate the fullness of worship, encompassing repentance, dedication, thanksgiving, and joy. They remind believers of the holistic nature of their relationship with God, which involves every aspect of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people to whom the instructions for offerings were given. They were God's chosen people, set apart to follow His laws and commandments.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the laws and instructions from God, including those concerning offerings and sacrifices.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, where sacrifices and offerings were made.

4. Feast of Tabernacles
The context of this passage is the instructions for offerings during the Feast of Tabernacles, a significant festival in the Jewish calendar.

5. Sin Offering
A specific type of offering made to atone for sin, symbolizing purification and reconciliation with God.

Teaching Points

The Necessity of Atonement
The sin offering underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. It reminds us that sin separates us from God, and reconciliation requires a sacrifice.

Symbolism of the Male Goat
The male goat as a sin offering symbolizes the transfer of sin and the need for a substitute. This foreshadows Christ, who became our substitute on the cross.

Regularity and Consistency in Worship
The inclusion of the sin offering alongside regular burnt offerings highlights the importance of consistent and faithful worship practices. Our spiritual disciplines should be regular and intentional.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The Old Testament sacrifices point to Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and became the ultimate sin offering. Our faith rests in His completed work on the cross.

Holiness and Purity
The offerings remind us of God's holiness and our call to live pure and holy lives. We are to be set apart, reflecting God's character in our daily actions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a sin offering in Numbers 29:16 help us understand the gravity of sin and the need for atonement in our lives today?

2. In what ways does the regularity of offerings in the Old Testament challenge us to maintain consistent spiritual practices in our own lives?

3. How does the symbolism of the male goat as a sin offering point to the work of Christ on the cross, and how can this deepen our appreciation for His sacrifice?

4. What are some practical ways we can pursue holiness and purity in our daily lives, reflecting the call to be set apart as God's people?

5. How can understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system enhance our understanding of New Testament teachings on grace and forgiveness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides detailed instructions on the sin offering, emphasizing its role in atonement and forgiveness.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the insufficiency of animal sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate and perfect sacrifice for sin.

1 John 1:9
Highlights the promise of forgiveness and cleansing from sin through confession, connecting the Old Testament practice of sin offerings to the New Testament understanding of grace.