Numbers 28:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 28:16
16 And in the fourteenth day of the first month is the passover of the LORD.
Chapter Context
Numbers 28 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, sacrifice, wisdom. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 28:16
16 And in the fourteenth day of the first month is the passover of the LORD.
Analysis
The Feast of Unleavened Bread's seven-day duration ('on the fifteenth day of this month is the feast: seven days shall unleavened bread be eaten') required extended focus on redemption themes. Leaven's removal symbolized sin's purging, teaching that salvation necessitates holiness. The week-long feast prevented casual observance, requiring sustained attention to spiritual realities. The number seven (completion) emphasized thorough dedication to remembering God's deliverance and pursuing corresponding purity.
Historical Context
Unleavened bread commemorated Israel's hasty Exodus departure, leaving no time for dough to rise (Exodus 12:39). The feast immediately followed Passover, creating an eight-day celebration (combining both feasts' observances). Leaven's removal from households required thorough cleansing, symbolizing sin's comprehensive purging. Paul later applied this imagery to Christian living, calling believers to purge out old leaven of malice and wickedness (1 Corinthians 5:7-8).
Reflection
- What 'leaven' (sin) requires purging from your life to live consistently with your redemption in Christ?
- How can extended focus on spiritual themes (not just brief moments) deepen transformation?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 12:18