Numbers 29:26

On the fifth day you are to present nine bulls, two rams, and fourteen male lambs a year old, all unblemished,

Study Bible

On the fifth day
The fifth day refers to the sequence of offerings during the Feast of Tabernacles, a significant festival in the Jewish calendar. This feast, also known as Sukkot, is a time of rejoicing and thanksgiving for the harvest. It is one of the three pilgrimage festivals where Israelites were commanded to appear before the Lord in Jerusalem. The number five in biblical numerology often symbolizes grace, which can be seen in the context of God's provision and blessing during this festival.

you are to present
The act of presenting offerings is a central aspect of worship in the Old Testament. It signifies obedience, reverence, and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. The Israelites were to bring these offerings to the tabernacle, and later the temple, as a way to maintain their covenant relationship with God. This act of presentation is a precursor to the New Testament concept of offering oneself as a living sacrifice, as seen in Romans 12:1.

nine bulls
Bulls were considered valuable and significant offerings due to their size and strength. The number nine, being three times three, can symbolize completeness or finality in biblical terms. Bulls were often used in burnt offerings, which were entirely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God. The increasing number of bulls offered each day during the Feast of Tabernacles may reflect the growing intensity of worship and dedication.

two rams
Rams were also significant in sacrificial offerings, often associated with atonement and consecration. The ram was used in the consecration of priests (Exodus 29:15-18) and in the sin offering on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:3). The number two can symbolize witness or testimony, suggesting that these offerings serve as a testimony to God's holiness and the people's need for atonement.

and fourteen male lambs a year old
Lambs are frequently used in sacrificial contexts, symbolizing innocence and purity. The specification of "a year old" indicates that these lambs are in their prime, representing the best of what the Israelites could offer. The number fourteen, being double seven, can signify a double measure of spiritual perfection or completeness. This aligns with the themes of the Feast of Tabernacles, which celebrates God's provision and the completion of the harvest.

all unblemished
The requirement for offerings to be unblemished underscores the importance of purity and perfection in worship. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is described as the Lamb of God without blemish or defect (1 Peter 1:19). The unblemished nature of these offerings points to the holiness required to approach God and the perfect sacrifice that Jesus would provide for the atonement of sin.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people of God who are receiving these instructions for offerings during the Feast of Tabernacles.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is conveying God's instructions to the people.

3. Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot)
A significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' journey in the wilderness and God's provision.

4. Sacrificial Offerings
Specific animals to be offered as a burnt offering to the Lord, symbolizing atonement and dedication.

5. The Tabernacle
The dwelling place of God among His people, where these offerings are to be made.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites were required to follow God's instructions precisely, demonstrating the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The unblemished animals symbolize purity and the need for a perfect sacrifice, pointing to Jesus Christ as the ultimate unblemished Lamb.

God's Provision and Faithfulness
The Feast of Tabernacles reminds us of God's provision during the Israelites' wilderness journey, encouraging us to trust in His faithfulness today.

Community Worship
The communal aspect of the festival emphasizes the importance of gathering together in worship and celebration of God's goodness.

Spiritual Reflection and Renewal
The offerings and the festival provide an opportunity for spiritual reflection, repentance, and renewal in our relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for unblemished animals in Numbers 29:26 reflect God's standards for holiness and purity?

2. In what ways does the Feast of Tabernacles serve as a reminder of God's provision and faithfulness in your own life?

3. How can the concept of sacrificial offerings in the Old Testament deepen your understanding of Jesus' sacrifice in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical ways you can incorporate the principles of obedience and community worship into your daily life?

5. How does reflecting on God's past faithfulness encourage you to trust Him with your current challenges and future uncertainties?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 23
Provides a broader context for the Feast of Tabernacles, detailing its significance and the required offerings.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the New Covenant.

John 7
Jesus attends the Feast of Tabernacles, highlighting its continued importance and fulfillment in Him.