Topical Encyclopedia The drink offering, or "libation," is a significant element in the sacrificial system of ancient Israel, as outlined in the Old Testament. It typically consisted of wine and was poured out as an offering to the Lord, symbolizing the dedication and consecration of the worshiper. The drink offering was often presented alongside other sacrifices, such as burnt offerings and grain offerings, to complete the sacrificial ritual.Biblical Instructions and Context The instructions for the drink offering are primarily found in the Pentateuch, particularly in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers. In Exodus 29:40-41 , the drink offering is described as part of the daily offerings: "With the first lamb, offer a tenth of an ephah of fine flour mixed with a quarter hin of oil from pressed olives, and a quarter hin of wine as a drink offering. Offer the second lamb at twilight with the same grain offering and drink offering as in the morning. It is a pleasing aroma, an offering made by fire to the LORD." The drink offering was also included in the instructions for various feasts and special occasions, as seen in Numbers 28-29. These offerings were to be made at the tabernacle and later at the temple, where the presence of God dwelt among His people. Prohibition on the Altar of Incense While the drink offering was an integral part of the sacrificial system, it was not to be poured on the altar of incense. The altar of incense, located in the Holy Place of the tabernacle and later the temple, was reserved for the burning of fragrant incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God. Exodus 30:9 provides a clear directive: "You must not offer on this altar any other incense, burnt offering, or grain offering, nor are you to pour a drink offering on it." The prohibition against pouring the drink offering on the altar of incense underscores the distinct purposes of the various elements within the tabernacle and temple worship. The altar of incense was dedicated solely to the offering of incense, which was to be burned twice daily, in the morning and at twilight, as a perpetual incense before the Lord (Exodus 30:7-8). Theological Significance The separation of the drink offering from the altar of incense highlights the order and sanctity of worship as prescribed by God. Each element of the sacrificial system had its specific role and symbolism, reflecting the holiness and majesty of God. The drink offering, poured out at the base of the altar of burnt offering, symbolized the outpouring of life and devotion to God, while the incense represented the prayers and intercessions of the people. This distinction also points to the broader theological theme of holiness and the proper approach to God. The Israelites were reminded that worship was not a matter of personal preference but was to be conducted according to God's revealed will. The careful observance of these instructions was a demonstration of obedience and reverence for the divine order established by God. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul uses the imagery of the drink offering to describe his own life and ministry. In Philippians 2:17 , he writes, "But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you." Here, Paul likens his sacrificial service to a drink offering, emphasizing his willingness to give his life for the sake of the Gospel and the faith of others. The drink offering, therefore, serves as a powerful symbol of dedication and self-sacrifice, both in the Old Testament sacrificial system and in the life of a believer committed to following Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 30:9You shall offer no strange incense thereon, nor burnt sacrifice, nor meat offering; neither shall you pour drink offering thereon. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Annunciation of St. John the Baptist The Purification of the virgin and the Presentation in the Temple Strange Fire Whether a Suitable Cause Can be Assigned for the Ceremonies which ... Princely Service. Ancestors of the Blessed virgin The Upbringing of Jewish Children Fragrant Graces The Saints' Privilege and Profit; The Liturgy of the Blessed Apostles. Resources Did Jesus drink wine/alcohol? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about drinking alcohol / wine? Is it a sin for a Christian to drink alcohol / wine? | GotQuestions.org Is it a sin to drink alcohol? | GotQuestions.org Drink: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Drink offering for Public Sacrifices Provided by the State Drink offering: Idolaters often Used Blood For Drink offering: Idolatrous Jews: Offered to the Queen of Heaven Drink offering: Idolatrous Jews: Reproved for offering, to Idols Drink offering: Illustrative of The: Devotedness of Ministers Drink offering: Illustrative of The: Offering of Christ Drink offering: Illustrative of The: Pouring out of the Spirit Drink offering: Not Poured on the Altar of Incense Drink offering: Omission of, Caused by Bad Vintage Drink offering: Quantity Appointed to be Used for Each Kind of Sacrifice Drink offering: Sacrifices Accompanied By Drink offering: Vanity of offering, to Idols Related Terms Drink-offering (33 Occurrences) |
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