On every Shabbat, two additional lambs must be offered as burnt offerings, with their meal and drink offerings.
This mitzvah commands that every Shabbat, in addition to the daily korban tamid, two unblemished lambs are offered as olah (burnt offerings). They are accompanied by a meal offering of fine flour mixed with oil, and a drink offering.
Rambam codifies this as the musaf of Shabbat, establishing that Shabbat’s sanctity is marked not only by rest but by heightened Temple service. Sefer HaChinuch explains that the doubled offering signifies Shabbat’s unique holiness, reminding Israel of creation’s completion and Hashem’s covenant. The Talmud (Menachot 45a) clarifies the precise preparation of these offerings, noting they were entirely consumed on the altar, symbolizing total dedication. Midrash Rabbah (Bamidbar 21:24) describes the musafim as expressions of love, increasing offerings to reflect increased sanctity.
Commentary & Classical Explanation:
Contrast with the Daily Tamid:
For mitzvot that honor, safeguard, and sanctify the Shabbat day of rest.
Concerns the Beit HaMikdash, korbanot (offerings), and priestly service.
Represents the concept of spiritual intentionality, purity, and sanctity—set apart for a higher purpose.
Represents Emunah—the deep, inner trust in Hashem’s presence, oneness, and constant involvement in our lives. This badge symbolizes a heartfelt connection to G-d, rooted in belief even when we cannot see. It is the emotional and spiritual core of many mitzvot.
Signifies awe and reverence toward Hashem—living with awareness of His greatness and presence.
Mitzvot that define and deepen the relationship between a person and their Creator. These include commandments involving belief, prayer, Shabbat, festivals, sacrifices, and personal holiness — acts rooted in divine connection rather than human interaction.
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