Numbers 7:45
One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:
Original Language Analysis
פַּ֣ר
bullock
H6499
פַּ֣ר
bullock
Strong's:
H6499
Word #:
1 of 11
a bullock (apparently as breaking forth in wild strength, or perhaps as dividing the hoof)
בֶּן
of the first
H1121
בֶּן
of the first
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
3 of 11
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
בָּקָ֗ר
young
H1241
בָּקָ֗ר
young
Strong's:
H1241
Word #:
4 of 11
a beeve or an animal of the ox family of either gender (as used for plowing); collectively, a herd
אַ֧יִל
ram
H352
אַ֧יִל
ram
Strong's:
H352
Word #:
5 of 11
properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree
בֶּן
of the first
H1121
בֶּן
of the first
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
9 of 11
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Historical Context
The examination for blemishes was thorough—animals had to be physically perfect to be acceptable. This requirement taught that God deserves our best and that worship should never be casual or careless. The priests' inspection ensured compliance, protecting the sanctity of worship and the integrity of sacrifice.
Questions for Reflection
- In what ways are we tempted to offer God our 'blemished' gifts rather than our best?
- How does the requirement for unblemished sacrifices prefigure Christ's perfection?
- What does comprehensive dedication look like in contemporary Christian living?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The burnt offering animals—young bullock, ram, lamb—each in its prime and without defect, represent offering God our best rather than our leftovers. The young bullock in strength, the ram in maturity, the lamb in innocence—together they symbolize comprehensive devotion of our entire being. This completeness of offering prefigures Christ's perfect sacrifice and calls us to give ourselves wholly to God. The Reformed doctrine of consecration involves all of life, not compartmentalized spirituality.