Numbers 29:33
And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs, shall be according to their number, after the manner:
Original Language Analysis
וּמִנְחָתָ֣ם
And their meat offering
H4503
וּמִנְחָתָ֣ם
And their meat offering
Strong's:
H4503
Word #:
1 of 7
a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)
לַ֠פָּרִים
for the bullocks
H6499
לַ֠פָּרִים
for the bullocks
Strong's:
H6499
Word #:
3 of 7
a bullock (apparently as breaking forth in wild strength, or perhaps as dividing the hoof)
לָֽאֵילִ֧ם
for the rams
H352
לָֽאֵילִ֧ם
for the rams
Strong's:
H352
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree
Historical Context
The cross-referencing to Numbers 15:1-12 throughout these verses ensured inter-generational consistency. A priest serving in Solomon's temple or during Ezra's restoration would offer sacrifices identically to those at Sinai. This covenantal continuity bound Israel together across centuries through shared worship forms.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the unchanging pattern of worship on even the climactic seventh day challenge consumer approaches to church and spiritual experience?
- In what ways does faithful repetition (rather than constant novelty) characterize your devotional practices?
- What does the consistency of God's prescribed worship teach about His covenant faithfulness across generations?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
According to their number, after the manner—On the climactic seventh day, the formula remains unchanged. The minchah and nesek accompany the seven bulls with the same precision as the previous days. Even at the symbolic peak, worship adheres to established patterns—no improvisational flourishes, no deviation from mishpat (ordinance).
This consistency reveals that true spiritual maturity is not graduating beyond obedience but deepening in faithful adherence. The unchanging formula points to God's unchanging character: "I am the LORD, I change not" (Malachi 3:6). Our worship may vary in intensity, but its structure rests on divine revelation, not human creativity.