“And on the fifteenth day of this month is the feast: seven days shall unleavened bread be eaten.”– Numbers 28:17 (KJV)
“On the fifteenth day of the first month, the Lord’s Passover begins, and on the following day there is a festival of unleavened bread. For seven days, the bread you eat must be made without yeast.”– Numbers 28:17 (NLT)
“The Passover begins on the fifteenth day of the first month. You must eat unleavened bread for seven days.”– Numbers 28:17 (MSG)
What Does Numbers 28:17 Mean?
Numbers 28:17 is significant within the context of the celebrations and rituals that the Israelites were commanded to observe. This verse indicates the timing of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which follows the Passover. It marks a time of remembrance and dedication to God and what He did for the nation of Israel when He brought them out of slavery in Egypt. This is a crucial aspect of their faith and identity.
This verse emphasizes the importance of both the Passover and the week-long celebration of unleavened bread that follows. Each of these feasts has profound meaning and relevance. The Passover commemorates the people’s deliverance from Egypt and the sparing of their firstborns during the final plague, while the Feast of Unleavened Bread symbolizes purity and a break from sin.
Numbers 28:17 Explanation and Commentary
In this portion of Scripture, we see the Lord providing instructions to the Israelites on how to observe these sacred feasts. Throughout the Bible, God often emphasizes the importance of remembering His acts of kindness and deliverance. He wanted the Israelites to not only remember their own history but also to teach future generations about it. The emphasis on eating unleavened bread for seven days is about more than just abstaining from yeast; it symbolizes a life free from the leaven of sin.
Leaven in Jewish customs often symbolizes sin, and by consuming unleavened bread, they were reflecting the need for a pure and holy life. Just as the bread was without yeast, they were to strive for lives that were dedicated to God, free from the “yeast” of sin that could permeate their lives and corrupt their hearts. This practice serves as a reminder for us today to examine our own lives and consider what influences we allow that may lead us away from God.
Interestingly, in the New Testament, Jesus is often referred to as the bread of life. His sacrifice is likened to unleavened bread, highlighting His sinless nature. The parallel between the physical bread, which had no leaven, and Jesus, who was without sin, emphasizes His role in fulfilling the law and providing salvation to all who believe. When we reflect on Numbers 28:17, we also see preparation for service, worship, and community, all of which are integral parts of our faith today.
Context of Numbers 28:17
To fully grasp the significance of Numbers 28:17, we must appreciate the wider context of this chapter. In the book of Numbers, God is giving detailed instructions regarding the sacrifices and offerings that are to be made by the Israelites. This chapter serves as a reminder of God’s holiness and the necessity of worship through reverent and structured practices.
The Israelites were transitioning from their time in the wilderness to eventually entering the Promised Land. God wanted to ensure they remained rooted in their traditions and values, serving as a guiding light among other nations. By establishing these specific festivals, He was encouraging unity among the Israelites and fostering community through shared customs and beliefs. Celebrating these feasts would also position them to reflect on their identity as God’s chosen people, a sentiment mirrored throughout Scripture.
This context begs readers to consider how we celebrate important moments in our lives. Whether it’s a holiday, family tradition, or time of worship, these practices serve to reinforce our beliefs and values. By engaging in remembrance, whether through feasting or other forms of worship, we are connecting with our heritage and deepening our relationship with God.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Numbers 28:17
Let’s examine the parts of this verse closely. The “fifteenth day of the month” holds particular significance in the Jewish calendar and is the start of Passover, an essential festival in the Jewish faith. It is immediately followed by “seven days shall unleavened bread be eaten,” which highlights the importance of the Feast of Unleavened Bread. This significant time of worship focuses on preparation and consecration before God.
This command serves a practical purpose. By abstaining from leaven, the Israelites were physically reminded of the haste with which they had to leave Egypt. They had no time to let bread rise, showcasing not just a historical event but a spiritual stance on obedience and readiness to heed God’s call.
It’s also worth noting that the repetition of “seven days” implies completion and wholeness in biblical terms. Seven is a recurring number throughout Scripture, symbolizing God’s divine order and purpose. By celebrating for a full week, the people were effectively engaging in complete devotion to God, acknowledging His provision and care.
Lessons to Learn From Numbers 28:17
What lessons can we extract from Numbers 28:17 for our lives? For one, we see the concept of remembrance and celebration as fundamental aspects of faith. As we come together to celebrate our traditions, we must ponder the significance behind these practices. How do they bring us closer to God? How do they shape our identity?
Additionally, the focus on purification gives way to understanding the concept of inner holiness. We are reminded to examine and purge our lives of anything that could resemble sin, much like removing leaven from bread. This practice encourages us to seek a life that mirrors Christ’s example of truth and righteousness.
Finally, this verse challenges us to consider the importance of community. It’s through our shared experiences and communal celebrations that we foster unity within the body of Christ. Each gathering—be it a church service or a family dinner—offers an opportunity to draw near to God and to one another.
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on Numbers 28:17, let’s recognize that these ancient events were not simply historical occurrences but hold timeless truths. They teach us about God’s faithfulness, the importance of purification, and the beauty of community. We have the privilege to incorporate these principles into our lives today.
As we understand the significance of celebrating God’s deliverance, we can embrace the ongoing journey of faith with joy. Let’s commit to remembering the foundations of our beliefs and practicing our faith with all our hearts, whether through festive meals, worship, or community gatherings. For more encouraging and inspiring topics, explore additional resources available to deepen our understanding of Scripture, such as Numbers 13:23 or John 7:1.