King James Version

What Does Numbers 15:12 Mean?

Numbers 15:12 in the King James Version says “According to the number that ye shall prepare, so shall ye do to every one according to their number. — study this verse from Numbers chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

According to the number that ye shall prepare, so shall ye do to every one according to their number.

Numbers 15:12 · KJV


Context

10

And thou shalt bring for a drink offering half an hin of wine, for an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.

11

Thus shall it be done for one bullock, or for one ram, or for a lamb , or a kid.

12

According to the number that ye shall prepare, so shall ye do to every one according to their number.

13

All that are born of the country shall do these things after this manner, in offering an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.

14

And if a stranger sojourn with you, or whosoever be among you in your generations, and will offer an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD; as ye do, so he shall do.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
According to the number that ye shall prepare, so shall ye do to every one according to their number—Mathematical precision in worship: multiply offerings by the number of animals sacrificed. This verse addresses those bringing multiple sacrifices simultaneously (e.g., at festivals or dedications), requiring proportional grain/oil/wine for each animal.

The repetition emphasizes accountability and integrity in worship. God keeps accounts—our offerings are not vague gestures but specific acts of obedience. This principle extends to New Testament stewardship: 'Every man according as he purposeth in his heart' (2 Corinthians 9:7), where intentionality matters.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Large-scale sacrifices occurred at major festivals (Passover, Tabernacles) and special occasions (temple dedications, royal coronations). Solomon sacrificed 22,000 oxen and 120,000 sheep at the temple dedication (1 Kings 8:63)—requiring meticulous calculation of accompanying offerings.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the call to multiply offerings proportionally challenge us to scale our generosity with our blessings?
  2. What does God's attention to numerical detail in worship reveal about His character and expectations?
  3. In what ways can we apply the principle of 'proportional obedience' to our time, talents, and treasure in Christian service?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
כְּמִסְפָּרָֽם׃1 of 7

According to the number

H4557

a number, definite (arithmetical) or indefinite (large, innumerable; small, a few); also (abstractly) narration

אֲשֶׁ֣ר2 of 7
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

תַּֽעֲשׂ֥וּ3 of 7

shall ye do

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

כָּ֛כָה4 of 7

so

H3602

just so, referring to the previous or following context

תַּֽעֲשׂ֥וּ5 of 7

shall ye do

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

לָֽאֶחָ֖ד6 of 7

to every one

H259

properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first

כְּמִסְפָּרָֽם׃7 of 7

According to the number

H4557

a number, definite (arithmetical) or indefinite (large, innumerable; small, a few); also (abstractly) narration


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Numbers 15:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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