Topical Encyclopedia In the context of ancient Israelite worship, the evening held significant importance as it marked the time for the second part of the daily sacrificial offerings. This practice was instituted by God as part of the covenantal relationship between Him and the people of Israel, serving as a continual reminder of their dependence on Him and their need for atonement.Biblical Foundation The daily sacrifices, known as the "Tamid" offerings, were commanded by God in the Torah. These offerings were to be made twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening. The instructions for these sacrifices are detailed in the Book of Exodus: "This is what you are to offer regularly on the altar: two lambs a year old, day by day continually. Offer one lamb in the morning and the other at twilight" (Exodus 29:38-39). The term "twilight" here refers to the evening, marking the transition from day to night. Purpose and Significance The evening sacrifice was not merely a ritualistic act but held deep spiritual significance. It symbolized the people's ongoing need for reconciliation with God and served as a daily act of worship and devotion. The offering of a lamb in the evening was a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who would take away the sins of the world (John 1:29). The evening sacrifice also provided a structured rhythm to the Israelites' day, framing their daily lives with moments of reflection and worship. It was a time to acknowledge God's provision and faithfulness, as well as to seek His continued presence and favor. Historical Context The practice of the evening sacrifice was central to the worship life of Israel, particularly during the time of the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem. The priests were responsible for carrying out these sacrifices, ensuring that the offerings were made according to the precise instructions given by God. The evening sacrifice was accompanied by the burning of incense, which symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to God (Exodus 30:7-8). Prophetic and Messianic Implications The evening sacrifice, like many elements of the Old Testament sacrificial system, pointed forward to the coming of the Messiah. The prophet Daniel, in his visions, alludes to the cessation of the daily sacrifices as a significant event in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan (Daniel 9:27). This foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who fulfilled and thus rendered obsolete the need for continual animal sacrifices. New Testament Reflection In the New Testament, the concept of sacrifice is transformed through the person and work of Jesus Christ. The writer of Hebrews explains that Christ's sacrifice was once for all, perfecting forever those who are being sanctified (Hebrews 10:14). The evening sacrifice, therefore, finds its fulfillment in Christ, who is both the High Priest and the sacrificial Lamb. Conclusion The evening sacrifice was a vital component of the daily worship practices of ancient Israel, serving as a constant reminder of God's holiness and the people's need for atonement. It was a precursor to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and the prophets, providing a way for humanity to be reconciled to God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 29:41And the other lamb you shall offer at even, and shall do thereto according to the meat offering of the morning, and according to the drink offering thereof, for a sweet smell, an offering made by fire to the LORD. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 141:2 Daniel 9:21 Library A Lamb was Offered at the Morning and Evening Sacrifice. ... Whether the Effect of Christ's Priesthood is the Expiation of Sins ... November 9 Evening January 4 Evening Psalm cxxxvii. 4 The Foundation of the Church among the Jews The Altar of Incense Separation to God. None but Jesus --Second Part Entire Sanctification in Type. Resources Why do some churches have a Sunday night/evening service? | GotQuestions.orgWhy do some churches have a Wednesday night service? | GotQuestions.org On what day was Jesus crucified? | GotQuestions.org Evening: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Evening: A Season For: Exercise The Evening: A Season For: Meditation The Evening: A Season For: Prayer The Evening: A Season For: Taking Food The Evening: All Defiled Persons Uncleaned Until The Evening: Called: Cool of the Day The Evening: Custom of Sitting at the Gates In The Evening: Divided Into Two, Commencing at 3 O'Clock, and Sunset The Evening: Humiliation often Continued Until The Evening: Man Ceases from Labour In The Evening: Part of the Daily Sacrifice offered In The Evening: Paschal Lamb Killed In The Evening: Stretches out Its Shadows The Evening: The Day Originally Began With The Evening: The Golden Candlestick Lighted In The Evening: The Outgoings of, Praise God The Evening: The Sky Red In, a Token of Fair Weather The Evening: Wild Beasts Come Forth In Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |