Numbers 28:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 28:2
2 Command the children of Israel, and say unto them, My offering, and my bread for my sacrifices made by fire, for a sweet savour unto me, shall ye observe to offer unto me in their due season.
Chapter Context
Numbers 28 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, covenant, love. 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 essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 28:2
2 Command the children of Israel, and say unto them, My offering, and my bread for my sacrifices made by fire, for a sweet savour unto me, shall ye observe to offer unto me in their due season.
Analysis
God commands Israel to observe 'my offering, and my bread for my sacrifices made by fire' at their appointed seasons. The Hebrew 'qorban' (offering) and 'lechem' (bread) emphasize that sacrifices are God's food - anthropomorphic language showing God delights in His people's worship, not that He needs sustenance. The phrase 'sweet savour' (reiach nichoach) appears throughout, meaning a soothing aroma pleasing to God. These offerings foreshadow Christ, the true Bread from heaven (John 6:35) who offered Himself as a fragrant offering to God (Eph 5:2).
Historical Context
Given near the end of Israel's wilderness wanderings as they prepared to enter Canaan, these instructions ensure worship continuity in the Promised Land. The detailed regulations (daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly offerings) would structure Israel's entire calendar around worship, making every day, week, and season point to God's provision and their dependence on Him.
Reflection
- How can you structure your daily and weekly rhythms to make worship central rather than peripheral?
- In what ways does your life become a 'sweet savour' - a pleasing aroma - to God through Christ?
Cross-References
- Creation: Leviticus 3:11
- Parallel theme: Genesis 8:21