Definition: And three tenth deals of flour [for] a meat offering, mingled with oil, for one bullock; and two tenth deals of flour [for] a meat offering, mingled with oil, for one ram;
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 28:12. It’s a very important part of the Old Testament story of Passover! Here's what it means in simple terms: Essentially, this verse describes how the Israelites were to prepare for and participate in the Passover meal. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And three tenth deals of flour [for] a meat offering…” – This means they needed to have 30% (three tenths) of the total amount of wheat/flour dedicated to the sacrifice. This was for the meat portion of the Passover meal. “…mixed with oil…” - The oil wasn’t just being added to the flour; it was mixed with it. This symbolized that the blood of the sacrificial lamb (the Passover lamb) would protect them from death and symbolize God's protection. “…for one bullock…” – This refers to a single ox, which was used for the sacrifice. “And two tenth deals of flour [for] a meat offering, mingled with oil, for one ram…” - This is where it gets even more significant. They needed 20% (two tenths) of the total amount of wheat/flour dedicated to the sacrifice – this was for the ram portion. The ram was a symbolic representation of Abraham and the covenant between God and Israel. So, putting it all together: The Israelites were instructed to prepare for Passover by having 30% of their harvest dedicated to the sacrifice (meat), mixed with oil, and then 20% dedicated to the sacrifice (ram). This was a crucial part of the Jewish tradition – it’s believed that this ritual ensured they would be spared from death during the Exodus. Why is this important? Symbolic Meaning: It’s a powerful symbolic representation of God's protection and covenant with his people. Reminder of the Past: It reminds us of the historical significance of Passover, commemorating the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Do you want me to explain any particular aspect of this verse further? For example, would you like to know: What does “thirteenth” and "twelfth" mean in this context? How did this ritual play out during Passover?