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The term "Evening Sacrifice" refers to the daily offering made in the ancient Israelite temple worship, as prescribed in the Mosaic Law. This sacrifice was part of the regular, twice-daily burnt offerings, which included a morning and an evening sacrifice. The evening sacrifice held significant religious and symbolic importance in the worship practices of the Israelites.

Biblical Foundation

The instructions for the evening sacrifice are found in the Pentateuch, specifically in the book of Exodus.Exodus 29:38-39 states: "This is what you are to offer regularly on the altar: two lambs, a year old, each day, continually. Offer one lamb in the morning and the other at twilight." The term "twilight" here is understood to refer to the time of the evening sacrifice, which was typically around 3:00 PM.

Ritual and Significance

The evening sacrifice was a burnt offering, which means it was completely consumed by fire on the altar. This act symbolized the people's dedication and consecration to God, serving as a daily reminder of their covenant relationship with Him. The offering of a lamb, without blemish, pointed to the need for purity and holiness in approaching God.

The evening sacrifice was accompanied by a grain offering and a drink offering, as detailed inNumbers 28:4-8 : "The one lamb you are to offer in the morning, and the other at twilight, along with a tenth of an ephah of fine flour as a grain offering, mixed with a quarter hin of oil from pressed olives. This is a regular burnt offering, established at Mount Sinai as a pleasing aroma, an offering made by fire to the LORD."

Prophetic and Messianic Implications

The evening sacrifice also held prophetic significance, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The timing of Christ's crucifixion, which occurred around the ninth hour (3:00 PM), coincides with the time of the evening sacrifice. This connection is seen as a fulfillment of the sacrificial system, with Christ being the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

Historical and Liturgical Context

In the historical context of Israel, the evening sacrifice was a central part of the daily worship in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. It was a time for communal prayer and reflection, as seen inPsalm 141:2 : "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering."

The evening sacrifice was not only a time for offering but also a moment for the people to seek God's favor and forgiveness. It was a time of repentance and renewal, aligning the hearts of the Israelites with the will of God.

New Testament Reflection

While the physical practice of the evening sacrifice ceased with the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 AD, its spiritual significance continues in Christian worship. The concept of offering oneself as a living sacrifice, as described inRomans 12:1 , echoes the dedication and devotion symbolized by the evening sacrifice. Christians are called to present their lives as a continual offering to God, reflecting the sacrificial love demonstrated by Christ.

In summary, the evening sacrifice was a vital component of Israelite worship, rich in symbolism and prophetic meaning. It served as a daily reminder of the need for atonement, dedication, and communion with God, ultimately pointing to the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.