Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Numbers 15:4 teach about meal offerings?
A: Numbers 15:4 describes the basic requirements for a voluntary meal offering (mincha) brought to Hashem. According to Rashi, it specifies that the offering must consist of fine flour (solet) mixed with oil—specifically one-tenth of an ephah of flour and a quarter-hin of oil. This teaches the importance of precision and care in fulfilling mitzvot.
Q: Why does the Torah specify exact measurements for the meal offering?
A: The Torah gives exact measurements (a tenth of an ephah of flour and a quarter-hin of oil) to teach that serving Hashem requires consistency and attention to detail. The Rambam explains in Hilchot Ma'aseh HaKorbanot that these fixed amounts ensure uniformity in divine service, showing that every offering—no matter who brings it—follows the same sacred standards.
Q: What is the significance of mixing flour with oil in this verse?
A: The mixing of fine flour (solet) with oil symbolizes refinement and purity in serving Hashem. The Midrash (Sifrei Bamidbar) notes that flour represents basic sustenance, while oil represents wisdom and enlightenment. Combining them teaches that our material actions (like bringing an offering) should be infused with spiritual intention.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today without the Temple?
A: While we cannot bring physical offerings today, the Talmud (Menachot 110a) teaches that studying the laws of sacrifices—like this meal offering—is considered as if we had brought them. Additionally, the verse reminds us to approach mitzvot with the same precision and sincerity, whether in prayer, charity, or Torah study.
Q: Why is the meal offering called a 'mincha'?
A: The term 'mincha' (meal offering) comes from the Hebrew root meaning 'gift' or 'tribute.' Rashi explains that it reflects humility—unlike animal offerings, which involve life, the mincha consists of simple flour and oil, showing that even modest contributions are precious when given with a sincere heart.
Verse Context
The verse (Vayikra 2:1) discusses the mincha (meal offering), one of the voluntary offerings brought in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and later in the Beit HaMikdash (Temple). Unlike animal sacrifices, the mincha consists of fine flour (solet) mixed with oil and frankincense, symbolizing devotion and gratitude to Hashem.
Key Components of the Mincha
Symbolism and Halachic Details
The mincha offering is unique because it is accessible even to those who cannot afford animal sacrifices. The Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 3:1) compares the mincha to the poor man’s offering, emphasizing that Hashem values sincere intent regardless of the offering’s monetary value.
The issaron (tenth of an ephah) measurement is significant. The Talmud (Menachot 87a) explains that this measure is consistent for most mincha offerings, teaching uniformity in divine service. The revii’it ha’hin (quarter of a hin) of oil, as noted by the Ramban (Vayikra 2:1), ensures a precise balance between the flour and oil, reflecting the harmony required in serving Hashem.
Spiritual Lessons