Numbers 31:39

30,500 donkeys, including a tribute to the LORD of 61,

Study Bible

30,500 donkeys
The mention of 30,500 donkeys highlights the wealth and resources obtained from the Midianites after Israel's victory. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, donkeys were valuable assets for transportation, agriculture, and trade. This large number signifies the extent of the plunder and the prosperity it brought to the Israelites. The use of donkeys in biblical times is also seen in Genesis 12:16, where Pharaoh gives Abram donkeys, among other livestock, as a sign of wealth. The acquisition of such a large number of donkeys underscores the completeness of Israel's victory and God's provision for His people.

including a tribute to the LORD of 61
The tribute of 61 donkeys to the LORD represents the portion set aside for God from the spoils of war. This act of giving a tribute is a form of acknowledgment that the victory and the spoils are ultimately from God. It reflects the principle of dedicating the firstfruits or a portion of one's increase to God, as seen in Proverbs 3:9-10. The specific number, 61, is derived from the total number of donkeys, following the command in Numbers 31:28-30 to give a portion to the LORD. This tribute can be seen as a type of offering, similar to the tithe, which is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is overseeing the distribution of the spoils of war.

2. Israelites
The people of God who are receiving instructions on how to handle the spoils from their victory over the Midianites.

3. Midianites
The people defeated by the Israelites, whose possessions are being divided.

4. The LORD
God, to whom a tribute is given as an acknowledgment of His provision and victory.

5. Donkeys
Part of the livestock taken as spoils, representing wealth and resources.

Teaching Points

Acknowledgment of God's Provision
The tribute to the LORD signifies recognition of His role in granting victory and providing resources.

Obedience in Giving
The Israelites' act of giving a portion of the spoils demonstrates obedience to God's commands, which is a principle applicable to modern-day stewardship.

The Principle of Firstfruits
Giving the first portion to God reflects the principle of firstfruits, teaching us to prioritize God in our finances and resources.

Community and Worship
The collective act of giving a tribute fosters a sense of community and shared worship among the Israelites, reminding us of the importance of communal worship and support.

Trust in God's Abundance
By giving a portion of their resources, the Israelites show trust in God's continued provision, encouraging us to trust God with our resources.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of giving a tribute to the LORD in Numbers 31:39 reflect the Israelites' acknowledgment of God's role in their victory?

2. In what ways can the principle of firstfruits, as seen in this passage, be applied to our modern-day financial practices?

3. How does the concept of obedience in giving, as demonstrated by the Israelites, challenge our current understanding of stewardship?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the communal aspect of giving in Numbers 31:39 and the New Testament teachings on the body of Christ?

5. How can trusting in God's provision, as exemplified by the Israelites' tribute, influence our approach to financial uncertainty today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 13:13
Discusses the redemption of the firstborn donkey, highlighting the significance of donkeys in Israelite culture and economy.

Leviticus 27:30-33
Provides background on the concept of tithes and offerings, which is relevant to understanding the tribute given to the LORD.

1 Samuel 15:22
Emphasizes obedience over sacrifice, which can be related to the Israelites' obedience in giving the tribute.

Proverbs 3:9-10
Encourages honoring the LORD with one's wealth, which is exemplified in the tribute given from the spoils.

Malachi 3:10
Speaks about bringing tithes into the storehouse, paralleling the act of giving a portion of the spoils to God.