When a bullock, or a sheep, or a goat, is brought forth, then it shall be seven days under the dam; and from the eighth day and thenceforth it shall be accepted for an offering made by fire unto the LORD.
When a young bull, sheep, or goat is born, it must stay with its mother for seven days. Starting on the eighth day, it can be accepted as a burnt offering to the LORD.
God required newborn animals to stay with their mothers for a full week before they could be used as sacrificial offerings.
📚 Historical Context
This law was given to the Israelites as part of the detailed sacrificial system that governed their worship and relationship with God. The requirement showed God's concern for both the welfare of animals and the proper timing of offerings. This rule demonstrated that even in sacrifice, there should be compassion and order, allowing the natural bond between mother and offspring to be maintained for a meaningful period.
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