Numbers 28:4
The one lamb shalt thou offer in the morning, and the other lamb shalt thou offer at even;
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
The morning sacrifice likely occurred around 9 AM, the third hour (when Holy Spirit fell at Pentecost, Acts 2:15). The evening sacrifice was between 3-5 PM (when Peter and John went to temple at the hour of prayer, Acts 3:1). These times structured Israel's daily worship rhythm for 1,500 years until temple destruction. The offerings included fine flour, oil, and wine (v.5-7) - grain, produce, representing human labor consecrated to God. The practice demonstrated that all of life - work, food, time - belonged to God. Modern believers no longer offer physical sacrifices but present bodies as living sacrifices (Rom 12:1) and offer praise continually (Heb 13:15).
Questions for Reflection
- Do you frame your days with worship - beginning in prayer/Scripture and ending with reflection and thanksgiving?
- How does the morning and evening sacrifice pattern challenge you to maintain regular devotional rhythm?
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Analysis & Commentary
God specifies: 'The one lamb shalt thou offer in the morning, and the other lamb shalt thou offer at even.' The Hebrew 'boqer' (morning) and 'ereb' (evening/between the evenings) bookended each day with sacrifice, sanctifying the entire day. This pattern taught that worship should frame daily life - beginning with God sets direction; ending with God reviews the day under His lordship. Daniel maintained this pattern centuries later (Dan 6:10). Jesus' crucifixion at 9 AM (morning sacrifice time) and death at 3 PM (evening sacrifice time) fulfilled this typology - His one sacrifice encompasses all time and sanctifies believers' entire lives continually.