Numbers 15:11
Thus shall it be done for one bullock, or for one ram, or for a lamb, or a kid.
Original Language Analysis
כָּ֣כָה
H3602
יֵֽעָשֶׂ֗ה
Thus shall it be done
H6213
יֵֽעָשֶׂ֗ה
Thus shall it be done
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
2 of 12
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
הָֽאֶחָ֑ד
for one
H259
הָֽאֶחָ֑ד
for one
Strong's:
H259
Word #:
4 of 12
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
א֖וֹ
H176
א֖וֹ
Strong's:
H176
Word #:
5 of 12
desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if
לָאַ֣יִל
ram
H352
לָאַ֣יִל
ram
Strong's:
H352
Word #:
6 of 12
properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree
הָֽאֶחָ֑ד
for one
H259
הָֽאֶחָ֑ד
for one
Strong's:
H259
Word #:
7 of 12
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
אֽוֹ
H176
אֽוֹ
Strong's:
H176
Word #:
8 of 12
desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if
Historical Context
In the ancient world, religious practices varied wildly by region, social class, and personal preference. Israel's uniform worship regulations were countercultural, emphasizing that Yahweh's holiness demanded prescribed (not invented) worship forms.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the principle of prescribed worship challenge modern notions of 'authentic' or 'spontaneous' spiritual expression?
- What parallels exist between Old Testament sacrificial precision and New Testament calls to worship 'in spirit and truth' (John 4:24)?
- In what areas might we be tempted to substitute cultural preferences for biblical patterns in worship?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Thus shall it be done for one bullock, or for one ram, or for a lamb, or a kid—The standardization formula ensures that worship follows divine prescription, not human innovation. Whether wealthy (bullock) or poor (lamb/kid), each worshiper followed the same proportional system, reflecting the truth that God 'is no respecter of persons' (Acts 10:34).
The phrase underscores the importance of careful obedience to God's revealed will. The Levitical system's precision taught Israel that approaching a holy God requires reverence for His instructions. Nadab and Abihu's 'strange fire' (Leviticus 10:1-2) demonstrated the deadly consequences of liturgical improvisation.