Numbers 31:40

and 16,000 people, including a tribute to the LORD of 32.

Study Bible

and 16,000 people
This phrase refers to the total number of women who were spared after the battle against the Midianites. In the context of ancient warfare, it was common for victors to take captives. The number 16,000 indicates the scale of the victory and the significant population of the Midianites. This event is part of the broader narrative of Israel's journey to the Promised Land, where they encountered various hostile nations. The sparing of these women aligns with the cultural practices of the time, where women and children were often taken as captives. This also reflects the patriarchal society of ancient Israel, where men were typically the combatants.

including a tribute to the LORD of 32
The tribute of 32 people to the LORD signifies a portion set aside as holy, acknowledging God's role in granting victory. This act of giving a tribute is a form of offering, similar to the firstfruits or tithes, which were common in Israelite worship. The number 32, being a small fraction of the total, highlights the principle of dedicating a portion of one's gains to God, a practice that underscores the recognition of divine providence. This tribute can be seen as a precursor to the concept of dedicating one's life to God, a theme that runs throughout the Bible. It also foreshadows the ultimate tribute of Jesus Christ, who is seen as the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep (1 Corinthians 15:20), offering His life as a sacrifice for many.

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 involved in the battle against the Midianites.

3. Midianites
The people who were defeated by the Israelites as a judgment from God.

4. LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel to whom the tribute is given.

5. Tribute
The portion of the spoils dedicated to the LORD, signifying His sovereignty and holiness.

Teaching Points

Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty
The tribute to the LORD signifies the acknowledgment of His ultimate authority and ownership over all things. As believers, we are called to recognize God's sovereignty in our lives and dedicate our resources and talents to Him.

Holiness and Dedication
The act of setting apart a portion for the LORD reflects the call to holiness and dedication. We are reminded to live lives that are set apart for God's purposes, reflecting His holiness in our actions and decisions.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' obedience in giving the tribute demonstrates the importance of following God's instructions. In our lives, we are called to obey God's Word and trust in His guidance, even when it requires sacrifice.

Gratitude and Worship
Offering a tribute to the LORD is an act of gratitude and worship. We are encouraged to cultivate a heart of thankfulness, recognizing God's provision and expressing our worship through giving and service.

Community and Responsibility
The distribution of the spoils and the tribute highlights the importance of community and shared responsibility. As members of the body of Christ, we are called to support one another and contribute to the needs of the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a tribute to the LORD in Numbers 31:40 reflect the principle of tithing and offerings in other parts of the Bible?

2. In what ways can we acknowledge God's sovereignty in our daily lives, similar to how the Israelites dedicated a portion to the LORD?

3. How does the act of giving a tribute to God challenge us to live lives of holiness and dedication today?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate obedience to God's commands, even when it requires personal sacrifice?

5. How can we foster a sense of community and shared responsibility within our church or small group, inspired by the distribution of the spoils in Numbers 31?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:11-16
Discusses the concept of a ransom or tribute to the LORD, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging God's ownership and provision.

Leviticus 27:30-33
Relates to the idea of dedicating a portion to God, highlighting the principle of tithing and offerings.

1 Samuel 15:22
Stresses obedience to God over sacrifices, which can be connected to the importance of following God's commands in Numbers 31.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to dedicating a portion to God.