What does Numbers 15:13 mean?
"All that are born of the country shall do these things after this manner, in offering an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD." - Numbers 15:13

Numbers 15:13 (KJV) states, "All that are born of the country shall do these things after this manner, in offering an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the Lord."
This verse is part of a larger passage in the book of Numbers that describes the various offerings and sacrifices that the Israelites were to bring to the Lord. In this particular verse, the focus is on those who are "born of the country," meaning the native Israelites, and the manner in which they were to offer their sacrifices to the Lord.
The context of this verse is important for understanding its significance. At this point in the book of Numbers, the Israelites have been freed from slavery in Egypt and are wandering in the wilderness on their way to the Promised Land. God has given them detailed instructions for how to worship and honor Him through the offering of sacrifices. These sacrifices were meant to demonstrate the Israelites' devotion to God and to atone for their sins.
One of the key themes in this verse is obedience to God's commands. The phrase "shall do these things after this manner" emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions precisely. The Israelites were not to offer sacrifices in any way they pleased, but rather in the manner prescribed by God. This theme of obedience runs throughout the entire Bible, as God consistently calls His people to obey His commands and walk in His ways.
Another theme in this verse is the concept of offering a "sweet savour unto the Lord." The idea of a "sweet savour" communicates the pleasing nature of the sacrifices offered to God. When the Israelites brought their sacrifices with a sincere heart and a desire to honor God, it was a fragrant aroma to Him. This theme of pleasing God through our worship and obedience is echoed in the New Testament as well, where believers are exhorted to offer their lives as living sacrifices to God (Romans 12:1).
Symbolism is also present in this verse, particularly in the offering made by fire. Fire is often used throughout the Bible as a symbol of God's presence and purification. When the Israelites offered their sacrifices by fire, it was a way of symbolizing their surrender to God and His refining work in their lives. This imagery is seen in the New Testament as well, where the Holy Spirit is likened to fire (Acts 2:3) and believers are described as being refined and purified through trials and testing (1 Peter 1:7).
Overall, Numbers 15:13 presents a beautiful picture of the Israelites' devotion to God and their desire to honor Him through their sacrifices. It speaks to the importance of obedience, worship, and surrender to God's will. This verse also points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself as a sweet savour to God on behalf of all humanity, cleansing us from sin and reconciling us to God. As believers, we are called to follow the example of the Israelites by offering ourselves as living sacrifices, obedient and pleasing to the Lord.
Have questions about Numbers 15:13?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Numbers 15:13 Artwork
Numbers 15:13 - "All that are born of the country shall do these things after this manner, in offering an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD."
"All that are born of the country shall do these things after this manner, in offering an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD." - Numbers 15:13
Numbers 13:15 - "Of the tribe of Gad, Geuel the son of Machi."
"Of the tribe of Gad, Geuel the son of Machi." - Numbers 13:15
Numbers 13:13 - "Of the tribe of Asher, Sethur the son of Michael."
Numbers 12 15
Numbers 11:15
Numbers 1:15 - "Of Naphtali; Ahira the son of Enan."
numbers 31:14-15
Numbers 23:1-13
Numbers 27:15 - "¶ And Moses spake unto the LORD, saying,"
Numbers 15:17 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Numbers 15:37 - "¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Numbers 1:13 - "Of Asher; Pagiel the son of Ocran."
"Of the tribe of Asher, Sethur the son of Michael." - Numbers 13:13
Numbers 15:1 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Numbers 13:10 - "Of the tribe of Zebulun, Gaddiel the son of Sodi."
Numbers 13:6 - "Of the tribe of Judah, Caleb the son of Jephunneh."
Numbers 13:8 - "Of the tribe of Ephraim, Oshea the son of Nun."
Numbers 33:13 - "And they departed from Dophkah, and encamped in Alush."
Numbers 13:9 - "Of the tribe of Benjamin, Palti the son of Raphu."
Numbers 13:5 - "Of the tribe of Simeon, Shaphat the son of Hori."
Numbers 13:1 - "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,"
Numbers 13:12 - "Of the tribe of Dan, Ammiel the son of Gemalli."
Numbers 13:7 - "Of the tribe of Issachar, Igal the son of Joseph."
Numbers 13:14 - "Of the tribe of Naphtali, Nahbi the son of Vophsi."
Numbers 33:15 - "And they departed from Rephidim, and pitched in the wilderness of Sinai."
Numbers 26:13 - "Of Zerah, the family of the Zarhites: of Shaul, the family of the Shaulites."
Numbers 29:15 - "And a several tenth deal to each lamb of the fourteen lambs:"
Numbers 10:15 - "And over the host of the tribe of the children of Issachar was Nethaneel the son of Zuar."