King James Version

What Does Numbers 15:7 Mean?

Numbers 15:7 in the King James Version says “And for a drink offering thou shalt offer the third part of an hin of wine, for a sweet savour unto the LORD.” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And for a drink offering thou shalt offer the third part of an hin of wine, for a sweet savour unto the LORD.”

Numbers 15:7 · KJV

Context

5

And the fourth part of an hin of wine for a drink offering shalt thou prepare with the burnt offering or sacrifice, for one lamb.

6

Or for a ram, thou shalt prepare for a meat offering two tenth deals of flour mingled with the third part of an hin of oil.

7

And for a drink offering thou shalt offer the third part of an hin of wine, for a sweet savour unto the LORD.

8

And when thou preparest a bullock for a burnt offering, or for a sacrifice in performing a vow, or peace offerings unto the LORD:

9

Then shall he bring with a bullock a meat offering of three tenth deals of flour mingled with half an hin of oil.

Read Numbers 15 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse prescribes the drink offering accompanying a ram sacrifice, requiring one-third hin of wine (approximately 1.3 quarts). The phrase "sweet savour unto the LORD" (reach nichoach l'YHWH) describes not merely pleasant aroma but worship that brings satisfaction and delight to God. The drink offering was poured out completely, symbolizing total devotion.

Wine in Scripture represents joy, celebration, and covenant blessing (Psalm 104:15). Unlike grain or animal offerings which were consumed, wine was entirely poured out, teaching that some acts of worship involve complete surrender without personal benefit. The specific measurement (one-third hin) demonstrates that acceptable worship follows divine prescription, not human preference.

This regulation appears in Numbers 15, a chapter given after Israel's rebellion at Kadesh-barnea. God's provision of worship instructions even after judgment shows His desire for restored relationship. The offerings look forward to Christ, whose blood was poured out completely (Mark 14:24) as the ultimate drink offering, bringing eternal satisfaction to the Father.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Drink offerings were common throughout the ancient Near East, but Israel's practice was distinctive in reserving them exclusively for Yahweh. Other cultures poured out wine to multiple deities or to the dead, practices strictly forbidden to Israel (Deuteronomy 32:38). The hin was an Egyptian liquid measure adopted during Israel's time in Egypt, holding approximately 3.8 liters.

Wine production was central to ancient Israelite agriculture and economy. Archaeological excavations have uncovered numerous wine presses, storage jars, and evidence of sophisticated viticulture throughout Canaan. The requirement to use wine (an expensive commodity in a desert environment) rather than water demonstrated the principle of offering God valuable resources. The pouring out of wine at the base of the altar created a permanent record of devotion, as the ground absorbed what could never be recovered.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does the complete pouring out of wine teach us about the nature of true worship and sacrifice?
  2. How can we ensure our worship brings a 'sweet savour' to the Lord rather than being merely ritualistic?
  3. In what ways does the precision of Old Testament measurements inform our approach to obedience in New Testament worship?
  4. What modern 'drink offerings'—acts of devotion we pour out completely—might God be calling you to make?
  5. How does understanding these offerings as pointing to Christ's sacrifice deepen your appreciation for His work on the cross?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
וְיַ֥יִן1 of 8

“of wine”

H3196

wine (as fermented); by implication, intoxication

לַנֶּ֖סֶךְ2 of 8

“And for a drink offering”

H5262

a libation; also a cast idol

שְׁלִשִׁ֣ית3 of 8

“the third”

H7992

third; feminine a third (part); by extension, a third (day, year or time); specifically, a third-story cell)

הַהִ֑ין4 of 8

“part of an hin”

H1969

a hin or liquid measure

תַּקְרִ֥יב5 of 8

“thou shalt offer”

H7126

to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose

רֵֽיחַ6 of 8

“savour”

H7381

odor (as if blown)

נִיחֹ֖חַ7 of 8

“for a sweet”

H5207

properly, restful, i.e., pleasant; abstractly, delight

לַֽיהוָֽה׃8 of 8

“unto the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

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 15:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Test Your Knowledge

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Continue Your Study

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