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Book of Numbers - Chapter 7 - Verse 87

7:87
All the oxen for the burnt offering were twelve bullocks, the rams twelve, the lambs of the first year twelve, with their meat offering: and the kids of the goats for sin offering twelve.

Meaning

In this verse, the significance lies in the number twelve, which is repeated several times. The number twelve holds great symbolic value in the Bible, representing completeness and perfection. In this context, the twelve bullocks, twelve rams, twelve lambs, and twelve kids of the goats are offered as sacrifices to atone for sins and seek forgiveness from God. The burnt offerings and sin offerings were essential parts of the Israelites' worship practices, demonstrating their dedication to God and their desire to be cleansed of sin. Each animal sacrificed was meant to be a pure and unblemished offering, reflecting the sincerity and reverence of the worshipper. The specificity of the numbers and types of animals used in the offerings emphasizes the meticulous care and attention to detail in the worship of God. Through these sacrifices, the Israelites sought to uphold their covenant with God and receive forgiveness for their transgressions, acknowledging His holiness and justice.

Theological Overview

In this verse, we see a significant pattern of twelve being repeated throughout the offerings brought before the Lord. The number twelve holds great symbolic meaning in the Bible, often representing completeness and perfection. The repetition of twelve bullocks, twelve rams, twelve lambs, and twelve goats for sacrifice emphasizes the symmetry and order of God's divine plan. It also points to the perfect and complete sacrifice that Jesus Christ would ultimately make on the cross. The burnt offerings and sin offerings mentioned here were crucial aspects of the Israelites' worship, highlighting the importance of atonement and surrender to God. Through these offerings, the Israelites sought forgiveness for their sins and expressed their dedication to the Lord. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the meticulous care and attention to detail that the Israelites were called to demonstrate in their worship of God.

American Standard Version

all the oxen for the burnt-offering twelve bullocks, the rams twelve, the he-lambs a year old twelve, and their meal-offering; and the males of the goats for a sin-offering twelve;
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