Definition: Then let them take a young bullock with his meat offering, [even] fine flour mingled with oil, and another young bullock shalt thou take for a sin offering.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Numbers 8:8. It’s a really important part of the Old Testament story about the Israelites preparing for a big festival. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, they were offering a sacrifice – a type of animal – to God as a sign of repentance and devotion. Let's unpack it further: “Then let them take a young bullock with his meat offering…” - This means they were choosing a young bull (a large, mature male sheep) to be sacrificed. It’s a significant sacrifice, representing the whole nation’s desire for God’s forgiveness and blessing. “[even] fine flour mingled with oil…” – This is where it gets interesting. They weren't just offering a regular animal. They were adding fine flour mixed with oil. This was a special type of offering, symbolizing purity and divine grace. It shows they were trying to make a very holy and sincere offering. “and another young bullock shalt thou take for a sin offering.” - This is the crucial part. They were choosing another young bullock specifically for this offering. This was done because of a terrible transgression – something that caused shame and sorrow to the people. It’s a way of acknowledging their guilt and asking for God's mercy. The Overall Meaning: This passage illustrates a serious moment in Jewish history. It shows the Israelites were deeply remorseful about a major sin and were taking extra steps to demonstrate this repentance through a significant and symbolic offering. Why is it important? This story is considered one of the earliest examples of a “sin offering” – a type of sacrifice used throughout the Old Testament as a way for people to express their guilt and seek God’s forgiveness after a wrong doing. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of repentance and seeking God's help when we stumble. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this story in more detail?