Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of the offerings listed in Numbers 7:15?
A: The offerings listed—a young bullock, a ram, and a lamb—represent different types of sacrifices brought in the Mishkan (Tabernacle). According to Rashi, these were voluntary offerings brought by the tribal leaders (Nesi'im) during the dedication of the Mishkan. Each animal symbolizes different levels of atonement and devotion to Hashem.
Q: Why were these specific animals chosen for the burnt offering?
A: The Torah specifies these animals because they were considered the most fitting for korbanot (sacrifices). The bullock represents strength, the ram represents leadership, and the lamb represents innocence. The Rambam (Hilchot Maaseh HaKorbanot) explains that these animals were commonly owned and accessible, making them practical choices for offerings.
Q: What does 'a lamb of the first year' mean in this verse?
A: The phrase 'a lamb of the first year' (כֶּבֶשׂ־אֶחָד בֶּן־שְׁנָתוֹ) refers to a young, unblemished lamb, as it was considered the most pure and suitable for a korban olah (burnt offering). The Talmud (Chullin 22b) discusses the importance of offering animals in their prime, as they represent wholehearted dedication to Hashem.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today without the Temple?
A: Although we no longer bring animal sacrifices, the Midrash (Vayikra Rabbah 7:3) teaches that prayer, Torah study, and acts of kindness can take the place of korbanot. The Rambam (Hilchot Tefillah 1:1) emphasizes that sincere prayer is the modern equivalent of offering sacrifices, maintaining our connection to Hashem.
Q: Why did each tribal leader bring the same offering in this chapter?
A: Rashi explains that while each leader brought identical offerings, they were presented on different days to honor each tribe individually. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 13:14) adds that this teaches unity in serving Hashem—though each tribe had unique qualities, their devotion was equal in sincerity.
Explanation of the Verse
The verse describes the sacrificial offerings brought for a burnt offering (olah), consisting of three distinct animals: a young bullock (par echad ben-bakar), a ram (ayil echad), and a lamb in its first year (keves echad ben-shanato). Each of these offerings holds specific significance in Jewish tradition.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi (Bamidbar 28:19) explains that these offerings were part of the daily and festival sacrifices in the Beit HaMikdash. The olah is unique in that it is entirely consumed by the fire on the altar, symbolizing complete devotion to Hashem. The three animals represent different levels of atonement and spiritual elevation.
Symbolism of the Animals
Halachic Significance
The Rambam (Hilchot Temidin uMusafin 1:1-3) details the laws regarding these offerings, emphasizing their regularity and the importance of their precise fulfillment. The burnt offering is unique in that it is wholly dedicated to Hashem, unlike other sacrifices that are partially consumed by the Kohanim or the offerer.
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 21:24) teaches that these offerings correspond to the three patriarchs—Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov—each embodying different aspects of divine service. The bullock represents Avraham's strength in spreading monotheism, the ram symbolizes Yitzchak's self-sacrifice, and the lamb reflects Yaakov's gentle and peaceful nature.