Numbers 29:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 29:13
13 And ye shall offer a burnt offering, a sacrifice made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD; thirteen young bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year; they shall be without blemish:
Chapter Context
Numbers 29 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, love, creation. 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 21-40: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 29:13
13 And ye shall offer a burnt offering, a sacrifice made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD; thirteen young bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs of the first year; they shall be without blemish:
Analysis
Thirteen young bullocks, two rams, and fourteen lambs—The fifteenth day of the seventh month inaugurated Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles), the harvest thanksgiving festival. The staggering number of animals (29 total) surpassed all other festivals, reflecting agricultural abundance and joy in God's provision.
A sacrifice made by fire, of a sweet savour (אִשֶּׁה רֵיחַ נִיחֹחַ, isheh reach nichoach)—'Made by fire' emphasizes the consuming flame transforming the offering into fragrant smoke ascending to heaven. This festival celebrated dwelling in temporary booths (sukkot), commemorating wilderness wanderings when God was Israel's shelter (Leviticus 23:42-43).
Historical Context
Sukkot, one of three mandatory pilgrimage feasts (Deuteronomy 16:16), occurred post-harvest (September/October). Instituted in Leviticus 23, it prefigured millennial glory when all nations will celebrate it (Zechariah 14:16). The seven-day feast plus eighth day assembly totaled eight days.
Reflection
- How does Sukkot's emphasis on temporary dwellings challenge modern attachment to material security?
- What prophetic significance does Zechariah 14:16's vision of Gentile nations keeping Sukkot hold for Christ's kingdom?
Word Studies
- Lamb: שֶׂה / כֶּבֶשׂ (Seh / Kebes) H3532 - Lamb, young sheep
Cross-References
- Sacrifice: Numbers 28:11, Ezra 3:4