Numbers 15:12 in the King James Version of the Bible reads, "According to the number that ye shall prepare, so shall ye do to every one according to their number." This verse is part of a larger passage in the Book of Numbers that outlines the regulations and instructions for offering sacrifices to the Lord.

In order to fully understand the meaning and commentary of Numbers 15:12, it is important to have some contextual background knowledge about the book of Numbers and the significance of sacrifices in the Old Testament.

The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and continues the narrative of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. The book gets its name from the numerous censuses or counts of the people that are recorded throughout its pages. It also details the laws and regulations that God gave to the Israelites through Moses during their time in the wilderness.

Sacrifices were an integral part of the worship practices of the Israelites. They were an act of offering something valuable to God as a means of atonement for sin, thanksgiving, or making a request. The sacrifices were a way for the Israelites to acknowledge their dependence on God and seek forgiveness and favor from Him.

Numbers 15:12 is part of a set of regulations laying out the specific instructions for offering sacrifices. In the verses leading up to Numbers 15:12, God instructs the Israelites on what offerings to bring when they enter the Promised Land. These offerings include a burnt offering, a meal offering, a drink offering, and a sin offering. Each of the offerings had specific requirements in terms of the type of animal to be sacrificed, the manner in which it was to be slaughtered, and the accompanying grain and drink offerings.

The verse itself is a directive from God to the Israelites, instructing them to adhere to the specific instructions He has given them regarding the sacrifices. God emphasizes the importance of following the prescribed number and methodology for each offering in order to properly honor and worship Him. This verse illustrates the importance of obedience and attention to detail in the worship of the Lord.

Furthermore, the verse can also be interpreted as a reminder of God's faithfulness and provision. The fact that God has given the Israelites clear instructions on how to sacrificially worship Him demonstrates His desire for a relationship with His people and His willingness to provide a way for them to approach Him.

Symbolically, the verse can also represent the idea of order and structure in worship. God is a God of order and precision, and He expects His people to approach Him with the same level of intentionality and reverence. The emphasis on "every one according to their number" underscores the need for each individual to take personal responsibility for their worship and relationship with God.

In a broader sense, Numbers 15:12 can also be applied to the Christian life today. While the sacrificial system outlined in the Old Testament is no longer practiced in the same way, the principle of obedience and attention to detail in worship still holds true. As believers, we are called to offer our lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). Just as the Israelites were instructed to follow the specific guidelines for their sacrifices, we are called to live our lives in accordance with God's word and commands.

In conclusion, Numbers 15:12 is a verse that carries important themes of obedience, reverence, and structure in the worship of God. It serves as a reminder of the significance of following God's instructions and taking responsibility for our relationship with Him. Whether applied in the historical context of the Israelites in the wilderness or in the modern context of the Christian life, this verse conveys timeless truths about the nature of worship and the character of God.