Numbers 29:10 - Seven lambs, tenth measure each?

Explanation of the Verse

The verse "עִשָּׂרוֹן עִשָּׂרוֹן לַכֶּבֶשׂ הָאֶחָד לְשִׁבְעַת הַכְּבָשִׂים" (a tenth measure for every lamb, for all the seven lambs) appears in the context of the Korban Tamid (daily offering) as described in Bamidbar (Numbers) 28:13. This verse specifies the amount of fine flour (solet) to be offered as a mincha (meal offering) alongside each of the seven lambs sacrificed on Shabbat.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that the phrase "עִשָּׂרוֹן עִשָּׂרוֹן" (a tenth measure for every lamb) emphasizes that each lamb requires its own separate tenth of an ephah of fine flour. This teaches that the meal offering for each lamb must be measured and brought individually, not collectively for all seven lambs (Rashi on Bamidbar 28:13).

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Maimonides) in Hilchos Temidin u'Musafin (1:4) codifies this law, stating that the mincha accompanying the Korban Tamid must consist of one-tenth of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil for each lamb. This highlights the precision required in the Temple service.

Midrashic Insight

The Midrash Tanchuma (Pinchas 12) connects the repetition of "עִשָּׂרוֹן עִשָּׂרוֹן" to the idea of consistency and dedication in divine service. Just as the offering is the same for each lamb, so too must our commitment to mitzvos remain unwavering.

Key Halachic Points

• Each of the seven lambs offered on Shabbat requires its own separate meal offering of one-tenth of an ephah of fine flour.
• The repetition in the verse underscores the importance of individual attention to each component of the service.
• This teaches a broader principle of hiddur mitzvah (beautifying the commandment) by ensuring each detail is meticulously observed.