Definition: Thus ye also shall offer an heave offering unto the LORD of all your tithes, which ye receive of the children of Israel; and ye shall give thereof the LORDâS heave offering to Aaron the priest.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 18:28. It’s a really important part of understanding how the Jewish people were to handle their tithes (a portion of their earnings). Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says: “You are required to give a specific amount of money – called ‘heave offerings’ – to God as a regular payment for your blessings.” Let's unpack that a little more: "Thus ye also shall offer..." : This is a formal instruction. It means everyone in the Jewish community must do this. "...an heave offering unto the LORD of all your tithes..." : “Tithes” are the regular payments people make to God as part of their faith. "Heave" here refers to a large, significant amount – think of it like a big gift. “To the LORD” means to give to God. "...which ye receive of the children of Israel..." : This tells us who needs to give this offering. It’s about the people who were receiving tithes from the Israelites (the group that followed Moses). "...and ye shall give thereof the LORDâS heave offering to Aaron the priest." : This is the most important part. Aaron, a high-ranking priest in the temple of God, was specifically assigned to receive and manage this “heave offering.” He would be responsible for keeping track of it and presenting it to God. In short, this verse establishes a system where everyone in the Jewish community has a specific obligation – to give a large portion of their earnings to God as a regular tribute. Why is this important? This practice was crucial for maintaining holiness and honoring God. It’s believed that by giving regularly, the Jewish people showed they were grateful for God's blessings and were committed to living righteously. Do you want me to: Explain another verse in Numbers 18? Discuss the significance of this practice within Judaism?