Old Testament
Numbers 15:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Numbers 15:9, God instructs the Israelites on how to present offerings when they bring a bullock for sacrifice.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
you must bring along a grain offering of 3/10 of an ephah of fine flour mixed with 1/2 a hin of oil.
Then shall he bring with a bullock a meat offering of three tenth deals of flour mingled with half an hin of oil.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 15:9, God instructs the Israelites on how to present offerings when they bring a bullock for sacrifice. The specific requirements include a grain offering of three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with half a hin of oil. This reflects the importance of proper worship and the need for offerings to be made with care and precision. The grain offering symbolizes gratitude and acknowledgment of God's provision, while the oil represents the richness and blessing of God. These offerings were part of the sacrificial system that helped maintain the relationship between God and His people, emphasizing the need for atonement and devotion. The detailed instructions highlight the seriousness of approaching God and the reverence required in worship. This verse serves as a reminder that worship involves not just the heart but also tangible expressions of faith and obedience to God's commands.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 15:9 to your life
When we approach God in worship, we should do so with intentionality and care. This verse encourages us to offer our best to God, whether through our time, resources, or talents, reflecting our gratitude and commitment to Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 15:9 mean?
Numbers 15:9 provides specific instructions for the Israelites on how to present a grain offering when bringing a bullock for sacrifice. It emphasizes the importance of proper worship and the need for offerings to be made with care.
What is the significance of the grain offering in Numbers 15:9?
The grain offering in Numbers 15:9 symbolizes gratitude and acknowledgment of God's provision. It reflects the Israelites' devotion and the seriousness of their worship.
Why is oil mentioned in Numbers 15:9?
In Numbers 15:9, oil represents richness and blessing from God. It is mixed with the flour to enhance the grain offering, highlighting the importance of quality in worship.
What does the phrase 'three-tenths of an ephah' mean in Numbers 15:9?
'Three-tenths of an ephah' refers to a specific measurement of fine flour required for the grain offering. This precise measurement underscores the importance of following God's instructions carefully.

The Book of Numbers
Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders
The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.
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