Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Numbers 15:3 mean?
A: Numbers 15:3 discusses the various types of offerings that can be brought to Hashem (God) in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) or later in the Beit Hamikdash (Temple). These include burnt offerings (olah), sacrifices (zevach), vow offerings (neder), freewill offerings (nedavah), and holiday offerings (mo'adim). The verse emphasizes that these offerings must come from cattle or sheep and are meant to create a 'pleasant aroma' for Hashem, symbolizing the sincerity and devotion of the worshiper.
Q: Why is Numbers 15:3 important?
A: This verse is important because it outlines the different types of korbanot (offerings) that were central to worship in the times of the Mishkan and Beit Hamikdash. According to Rashi and other commentators, these offerings served as a means for atonement, thanksgiving, and connection with Hashem. Even today, though we cannot bring sacrifices, we learn from this verse the importance of sincere devotion and the different ways we can express our commitment to serving Hashem through prayer and mitzvot.
Q: What can we learn from Numbers 15:3 today?
A: Although we no longer bring physical korbanot (offerings), the Talmud (Berachot 26b) teaches that prayer was established in place of sacrifices. This verse reminds us that just as there were different types of offerings for different purposes (vows, freewill, holidays), our prayers today should also reflect sincerity, gratitude, and devotion. The Rambam (Hilchot Tefillah 1:1) emphasizes that prayer is a form of divine service, continuing the spiritual legacy of the korbanot.
Q: What is the significance of the 'pleasant aroma' mentioned in Numbers 15:3?
A: The 'pleasant aroma' (re'ach nichoach) symbolizes Hashem's acceptance of the worshiper's sincere intentions. Rashi explains that this phrase indicates that the offering is pleasing to Hashem when brought with the right kavanah (intention). The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 27:6) teaches that it is not the physical smell that matters, but the devotion behind the act. Today, this teaches us that our mitzvot and prayers should be performed with wholehearted dedication.
Q: Why does Numbers 15:3 specify cattle and sheep for offerings?
A: The Torah specifies cattle and sheep because these animals were considered valuable and represented a meaningful sacrifice. Rashi notes that these animals were commonly owned and thus accessible for offerings. The Talmud (Chullin 84a) also discusses the qualities of these animals, explaining that they were chosen for their suitability for korbanot. This teaches us that serving Hashem should involve giving something meaningful, not just what is easy or insignificant.
Overview of the Verse
The verse (Bamidbar 15:3) discusses various types of korbanot (offerings) that may be brought to Hashem, including burnt offerings (olah), sacrifices (zevach), vow offerings (neder), freewill offerings (nedavah), and offerings brought during appointed festivals (mo'adim). The purpose of these offerings is to produce a "rei'ach nicho'ach" (a pleasing aroma) to Hashem, whether from cattle or sheep.
Types of Offerings Mentioned
The Concept of Rei'ach Nicho'ach
The phrase "rei'ach nicho'ach la'Hashem" (a pleasing aroma to Hashem) appears frequently in connection with korbanot. Rashi (on Vayikra 1:9) explains that this expression signifies Hashem's acceptance of the offering when brought with proper intent. The Rambam (Hilchot Me'ilah 8:8) emphasizes that the physical "aroma" is metaphorical, representing the spiritual satisfaction Hashem derives from human devotion.
Choice of Cattle or Flock
The verse specifies that these offerings may come from cattle (bakar) or sheep (tzon). The Talmud (Chullin 84a) discusses the qualities of each: cattle represent strength and abundance, while sheep symbolize humility. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 14:9) connects these choices to the patriarchs—Avraham (who offered cattle) and Yaakov (associated with sheep).
Spiritual Lessons