King James Version

What Does Numbers 7:46 Mean?

Numbers 7:46 in the King James Version says “One kid of the goats for a sin offering:” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“One kid of the goats for a sin offering:”

Numbers 7:46 · KJV

Context

44

One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:

45

One young bullock, one ram, one lamb of the first year, for a burnt offering:

46

One kid of the goats for a sin offering:

47

And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

48

On the seventh day Elishama the son of Ammihud, prince of the children of Ephraim, offered:

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The kid of the goats for sin offering addresses the reality that even in contexts of extraordinary devotion (tribal princes dedicating the tabernacle), sin must be addressed. No human righteousness, no matter how impressive, eliminates the need for atonement. This teaches humility—even our best works are tainted with sin and require forgiveness. The Reformed understanding of simul justus et peccator (simultaneously justified and sinner) is illustrated. We are both dedicated servants and needy sinners requiring ongoing atonement.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The consistent sin offering throughout the dedication period prevented triumphalism or pride. The message was clear: this magnificent tabernacle, these costly offerings, these devoted leaders all existed only by God's grace and required blood atonement for acceptance. Human achievement never replaces divine provision.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does acknowledging ongoing sin prevent pride in our spiritual achievements?
  2. What does the necessity of sin offerings even during dedication teach about human nature?
  3. In what ways should consciousness of sin shape our approach to ministry and service?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
שְׂעִיר1 of 4

“kid”

H8163

shaggy; as noun, a he-goat; by analogy, a faun

עִזִּ֥ים2 of 4

“of the goats”

H5795

a she-goat (as strong), but masculine in plural (which also is used elliptically for goat's hair)

אֶחָ֖ד3 of 4

“One”

H259

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

לְחַטָּֽאת׃4 of 4

“for a sin offering”

H2403

an offence (sometimes habitual sinfulness), and its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation; also (concretely) an offender

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 7:46 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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