Numbers 15:3 Meaning and Explanation
“And will make an offering by fire unto the LORD, a burnt offering, or a sacrifice in performing a vow, or in a freewill offering, or in your solemn feasts, to make a sweet savour unto the LORD, of the herd, or of the flock:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The people are to bring burnt offerings, vow offerings, freewill offerings, and feast offerings from their herds and flocks to create a sweet savor to the LORD.
The Context of Numbers 15:3
God details what types of offerings Israel will bring to maintain right relationship with Him in the promised land.
What Does Numbers 15:3 Mean?
These offerings cover multiple contexts: regular worship (burnt offerings), fulfillment of personal promises (vows), spontaneous devotion (freewill), and communal celebrations (solemn feasts). Each type expresses a different relationship between the worshiper and God.
The phrase 'sweet savour unto the LORD' describes offerings as pleasing to God—a language of relationship and acceptance. The specifications about herds and flocks show these offerings require substance and cost, reflecting the seriousness of approaching God.
Numbers 15:3 in the Original Language
savour (רֵיחַ reiach), 'fragrance' — expresses the aroma of acceptance, symbolizing that the offering reaches God and pleases Him
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 15:3
What does Numbers 15:3 mean?
The people are to bring burnt offerings, vow offerings, freewill offerings, and feast offerings from their herds and flocks to create a sweet savor to the LORD.
What is the context of Numbers 15:3?
God details what types of offerings Israel will bring to maintain right relationship with Him in the promised land.