Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Numbers 28:12 teach about the meal offerings for the bullock and the ram?
A: Numbers 28:12 specifies the amounts of fine flour (soles) mixed with oil required for the meal offerings (mincha) brought with the bullock and the ram. For the bullock, three tenths of an ephah (about 6.6 liters) of flour was used, while for the ram, two tenths (about 4.4 liters) were required. These measurements reflect the different levels of sanctity and importance of the sacrifices, as explained by Rashi and other commentators.
Q: Why were different amounts of flour used for the bullock and the ram in Numbers 28:12?
A: The Torah prescribes different amounts of flour for the bullock and the ram to correspond to their respective levels of importance in the sacrificial service. A bullock was a more significant offering, often associated with atonement or communal sacrifices, hence requiring a larger meal offering (three tenths). The ram, while still important, was a lesser offering, requiring only two tenths. This teaches us about the gradations in holiness and the careful attention to detail in divine service, as discussed in the Talmud (Menachot 89a).
Q: What is the significance of mixing the flour with oil in Numbers 28:12?
A: Mixing the fine flour (soles) with oil symbolizes richness and dedication in serving Hashem. Oil represents anointing and consecration, as seen in the anointing of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and its vessels. The Mincha offering, though simple, becomes elevated through this act, teaching that even basic acts of service can be infused with holiness when performed with the right intention, as highlighted in Midrash Tanchuma (Tetzaveh 5).
Q: How does Numbers 28:12 apply to us today without the Temple?
A: Although we no longer bring physical meal offerings, the principles behind Numbers 28:12 remain relevant. The verse teaches us about the importance of precision, sincerity, and gradation in our spiritual service. Just as the offerings required specific measurements, our prayers and mitzvot should be performed with care and proper intention. The Rambam (Hilchos Maaseh HaKorbanos 3:15) explains that prayer serves as a substitute for sacrifices, emphasizing devotion and mindfulness in our relationship with Hashem.
Q: What can we learn from the detailed instructions in Numbers 28:12?
A: The detailed instructions in Numbers 28:12 teach us that every aspect of divine service matters. Hashem cares not only about the sacrifices themselves but also about the accompanying meal offerings, their measurements, and preparation. This reflects the broader Torah principle of hiddur mitzvah (beautifying commandments), where we strive to perform mitzvot in the best possible way. As the Talmud (Bava Kama 9b) states, one should always be eager to fulfill mitzvot with excellence.
Explanation of the Verse
The verse describes the meal offerings (מִנְחָה) brought alongside the sacrifices of a bullock (פָּר) and a ram (אַיִל). According to Rashi (Bamidbar 28:12), these measurements are specified to ensure proper fulfillment of the mitzvah, as the Torah mandates precise amounts for korbanot (sacrifices). The flour is to be mixed with oil, symbolizing refinement and dedication to Hashem.
Significance of the Measurements
Symbolism of the Meal Offering
The Mincha offering, consisting of fine flour (סֹלֶת) and oil (שֶׁמֶן), represents human labor and devotion. The Talmud (Menachot 104b) teaches that the blending of flour and oil signifies the unity of physical and spiritual efforts in serving Hashem.
Halachic Insights
According to the Mishnah (Menachot 7:1), the measurements must be exact—neither diminished nor increased—to fulfill the mitzvah properly. The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 486:1) later codifies these requirements for meal offerings, emphasizing precision in divine service.