I will offer You fatlings as burnt offerings, with the fragrant smoke of rams; I will offer bulls and goats. Selah I will offer YouThis phrase signifies a personal commitment and dedication to God. The Hebrew root for "offer" is "עָלָה" (alah), which means to ascend or go up, often used in the context of sacrifices ascending to God. This reflects the worshiper's intention to elevate their devotion and gratitude to the Lord, acknowledging His sovereignty and grace. burnt offerings
The term "burnt offerings" comes from the Hebrew "עוֹלָה" (olah), which refers to a sacrifice that is completely consumed by fire on the altar. This symbolizes total surrender and consecration to God. Historically, burnt offerings were a central part of Israelite worship, representing atonement and a desire for reconciliation with God. of fat animals
The phrase "fat animals" indicates the offering of the best and most valuable livestock. In ancient Israel, fatness was associated with prosperity and abundance. Offering the "fat animals" signifies giving God the choicest and most precious possessions, reflecting a heart of generosity and reverence. with the fragrant smoke of rams
The "fragrant smoke" is a pleasing aroma to the Lord, as described in Levitical law. The Hebrew word "רֵיחַ" (reyach) means aroma or scent, and it conveys the idea of the offering being acceptable and delightful to God. Rams were often used in significant sacrifices, symbolizing strength and leadership. I will sacrifice
The act of sacrificing, from the Hebrew "זָבַח" (zabach), involves the ritual slaughter of animals as an act of worship. This reflects the seriousness and solemnity of the worshiper's commitment to God, acknowledging His holiness and the need for atonement. bulls and goats
Bulls and goats were common sacrificial animals in the Old Testament, each with specific symbolic meanings. Bulls, representing strength and service, were often used in covenantal ceremonies. Goats, associated with sin offerings, symbolize the removal of sin and guilt. Together, they represent a comprehensive act of worship and repentance. Selah
The term "Selah" is a Hebrew word found frequently in the Psalms, though its exact meaning is uncertain. It is often interpreted as a pause for reflection or a musical interlude. In this context, "Selah" invites the reader to pause and meditate on the significance of the offerings and the worshiper's devotion to God, encouraging a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sacrificial system and its fulfillment in Christ. Persons / Places / Events 1. PsalmistThe author of the psalm, traditionally attributed to David, who expresses a commitment to worship God through sacrifices. 2. GodThe recipient of the offerings, representing the divine presence and authority in the life of the believer. 3. Burnt OfferingsA type of sacrifice in the Old Testament where the entire animal was consumed by fire, symbolizing complete devotion to God. 4. Rams, Bulls, and GoatsAnimals used in sacrificial offerings, each with specific significance in the Hebrew sacrificial system. 5. SelahA term used in the Psalms, possibly indicating a pause for reflection or musical interlude. Teaching Points Understanding SacrificeThe psalmist's mention of burnt offerings highlights the importance of sacrifice in worship. In the Old Testament, these offerings were a way to express devotion and seek atonement. Today, believers are called to offer spiritual sacrifices, such as prayer, praise, and service. Symbolism of AnimalsEach animal mentioned (rams, bulls, goats) had specific roles in the sacrificial system, symbolizing strength, leadership, and atonement. Reflect on what you are offering to God in your life and how it symbolizes your devotion. Selah - Pause and ReflectThe use of "Selah" invites us to pause and consider the significance of our worship practices. Take time to reflect on how you can deepen your relationship with God through intentional acts of worship. Christ as the Ultimate SacrificeWhile the psalmist speaks of animal sacrifices, Christians understand that Jesus' sacrifice on the cross fulfills and surpasses these offerings. Embrace the freedom and grace found in Christ's atonement. Living SacrificesRomans 12:1 calls believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices. Consider how your daily actions and decisions can be offerings to God, reflecting His love and righteousness. Bible Study Questions 1. What does the practice of offering burnt offerings in the Old Testament teach us about the nature of worship and devotion to God? 2. How can the symbolism of rams, bulls, and goats in sacrifices inform our understanding of what we offer to God today? 3. In what ways can the concept of "Selah" be applied to our modern worship practices and daily lives? 4. How does the New Testament teaching on Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice change our perspective on the sacrificial system described in Psalm 66:15? 5. Reflect on Romans 12:1. What practical steps can you take to live as a "living sacrifice" in your current context? Connections to Other Scriptures Leviticus 1Describes the laws concerning burnt offerings, providing context for the psalmist's reference to sacrifices. Hebrews 10Discusses the insufficiency of animal sacrifices and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, offering a New Testament perspective on the psalmist's practice. Romans 12:1Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the psalmist's commitment to worship through offerings. People PsalmistPlaces JerusalemTopics Animals, Beasts, Bullock, Bullocks, Bulls, Burned, Burnt, Burnt-offerings, Burnt-sacrifices, Fat, Fatlings, Fatted, Goats, He-goats, Incense, Male, Offer, Offering, Offerings, Oxen, Perfume, Prepare, Rams, Sacrifice, Sacrifices, Selah, Sheep, Smoke, SweetDictionary of Bible Themes Psalm 66:15 4605 animals, religious role
4615 bull
5858 fat Psalm 66:13-15 4651 goat Library Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners:
A BRIEF AND FAITHFUL RELATION OF THE EXCEEDING MERCY OF GOD IN CHRIST TO HIS POOR SERVANT, JOHN BUNYAN; WHEREIN IS PARTICULARLY SHOWED THE MANNER OF HIS CONVERSION, HIS SIGHT AND TROUBLE FOR SIN, HIS DREADFUL TEMPTATIONS, ALSO HOW HE DESPAIRED OF GOD'S MERCY, AND HOW THE LORD AT LENGTH THROUGH CHRIST DID DELIVER HIM FROM ALL THE GUILT AND TERROR THAT LAY UPON HIM. Whereunto is added a brief relation of his call to the work of the ministry, of his temptations therein, as also what he hath met with …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3But, after that He had Made Mention of These Evils...
30. But, after that he had made mention of these evils, he added and said, "On account of which cometh the wrath of God on the sons of unbelief." [1923] Surely it was a wholesome alarm that believers might not think that they could be saved on account of their faith alone, even although they should live in these evils: the Apostle James with most clear speech crying out against that notion, and saying, "If any say that he have faith, and have not works, shall his faith be able to save him?" [1924] …
St. Augustine—On Continence The History of the Psalter
[Sidenote: Nature of the Psalter] Corresponding to the book of Proverbs, itself a select library containing Israel's best gnomic literature, is the Psalter, the compendium of the nation's lyrical songs and hymns and prayers. It is the record of the soul experiences of the race. Its language is that of the heart, and its thoughts of common interest to worshipful humanity. It reflects almost every phase of religious feeling: penitence, doubt, remorse, confession, fear, faith, hope, adoration, and …
Charles Foster Kent—The Origin & Permanent Value of the Old Testament The Heart's Desire Given to Help Mission Work in China.
"Sept. 30 [1869].--From Yorkshire L50.--Received also One Thousand Pounds to-day for the Lord's work in China. About this donation it is especially to be noticed, that for months it had been my earnest desire to do more than ever for Mission Work in China, and I had already taken steps to carry out this desire, when this donation of One Thousand Pounds came to hand. This precious answer to prayer for means should be a particular encouragement to all who are engaged in the Lord's work, and who may …
George Müller—Answers to Prayer In Death and after Death
A sadder picture could scarcely be drawn than that of the dying Rabbi Jochanan ben Saccai, that "light of Israel" immediately before and after the destruction of the Temple, and for two years the president of the Sanhedrim. We read in the Talmud (Ber. 28 b) that, when his disciples came to see him on his death-bed, he burst into tears. To their astonished inquiry why he, "the light of Israel, the right pillar of the Temple, and its mighty hammer," betrayed such signs of fear, he replied: "If I were …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life Shewing Wherein all Saving Grace Does Summarily Consist"
The next thing that arises for consideration is, What is the nature of this Divine principle in the soul that is so entirely diverse from all that is naturally in the soul? Here I would observe,-- 1. That that saving grace that is in the hearts if the saints, that within them [which is] above nature, and entirely distinguishes 'em from all unconverted men, is radically but one -- i.e., however various its exercises are, yet it is but one in its root; 'tis one individual principle in the heart. 'Tis …
Jonathan Edwards—Treatise on Grace I Will Pray with the Spirit and with the Understanding Also-
OR, A DISCOURSE TOUCHING PRAYER; WHEREIN IS BRIEFLY DISCOVERED, 1. WHAT PRAYER IS. 2. WHAT IT IS TO PRAY WITH THE SPIRIT. 3. WHAT IT IS TO PRAY WITH THE SPIRIT AND WITH THE UNDERSTANDING ALSO. WRITTEN IN PRISON, 1662. PUBLISHED, 1663. "For we know not what we should pray for as we ought:--the Spirit--helpeth our infirmities" (Rom 8:26). ADVERTISEMENT BY THE EDITOR. There is no subject of more solemn importance to human happiness than prayer. It is the only medium of intercourse with heaven. "It is …
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3 Jesus Heals on the Sabbath Day and Defends his Act.
(at Feast-Time at Jerusalem, Probably the Passover.) ^D John V. 1-47. ^d 1 After these things there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. [Though every feast in the Jewish calendar has found some one to advocate its claim to be this unnamed feast, yet the vast majority of commentators choose either the feast of Purim, which came in March, or the Passover, which came in April. Older commentators pretty unanimously regarded it as the Passover, while the later school favor the feast …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Why all Things Work for Good
1. The grand reason why all things work for good, is the near and dear interest which God has in His people. The Lord has made a covenant with them. "They shall be my people, and I will be their God" (Jer. xxxii. 38). By virtue of this compact, all things do, and must work, for good to them. "I am God, even thy God" (Psalm l. 7). This word, Thy God,' is the sweetest word in the Bible, it implies the best relations; and it is impossible there should be these relations between God and His people, and …
Thomas Watson—A Divine Cordial Question Lxxxiii of Prayer
I. Is Prayer an Act of the Appetitive Powers? Cardinal Cajetan, On Prayer based on Friendship II. Is it Fitting to Pray? Cardinal Cajetan, On Prayer as a True Cause S. Augustine, On the Sermon on the Mount, II. iii. 14 " On the Gift of Perseverance, vii. 15 III. Is Prayer an Act of the Virtue of Religion? Cardinal Cajetan, On the Humility of Prayer S. Augustine, On Psalm cii. 10 " Of the Gift of Perseverance, xvi. 39 IV. Ought We to Pray to God Alone? S. Augustine, Sermon, cxxvii. 2 V. …
St. Thomas Aquinas—On Prayer and The Contemplative Life Psalms
The piety of the Old Testament Church is reflected with more clearness and variety in the Psalter than in any other book of the Old Testament. It constitutes the response of the Church to the divine demands of prophecy, and, in a less degree, of law; or, rather, it expresses those emotions and aspirations of the universal heart which lie deeper than any formal demand. It is the speech of the soul face to face with God. Its words are as simple and unaffected as human words can be, for it is the genius …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Psalm 66:15 NIVPsalm 66:15 NLTPsalm 66:15 ESVPsalm 66:15 NASBPsalm 66:15 KJV
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