Numbers 7:13

His offering was one silver platter weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel and filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering;

Study Bible

His offering
This phrase refers to the individual contribution made by a leader of the tribe of Israel. In the context of Numbers 7, each tribal leader presents an offering for the dedication of the altar. The Hebrew word for "offering" is "קָרְבָּן" (korban), which signifies something brought near to God. This act of giving is a demonstration of devotion and obedience, reflecting the leader's role as a representative of his people before God.

one silver platter
The silver platter, or "קְעָרָה" (ke'arah) in Hebrew, is a significant item in the offering. Silver, a precious metal, symbolizes purity and redemption. The use of silver in the tabernacle offerings underscores the value and importance of the dedication ceremony. Historically, silver was a common medium of exchange, indicating the offering's worth and the leader's willingness to give generously to God.

weighing a hundred and thirty shekels
The shekel, "שֶׁקֶל" (shekel), was a standard unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel. A hundred and thirty shekels represent a substantial amount, emphasizing the leader's commitment and the community's investment in the worship of God. This weight, according to the sanctuary shekel, ensures uniformity and fairness in offerings, reflecting God's desire for order and equality among His people.

and one silver bowl
The "בָּזָךְ" (bazach), or bowl, complements the platter in the offering. Its presence highlights the completeness and sufficiency of the gift. The bowl, like the platter, is made of silver, reinforcing the themes of purity and redemption. In the broader scriptural context, bowls are often associated with the pouring out of offerings, symbolizing the outpouring of devotion and service to God.

weighing seventy shekels
Seventy shekels, a significant weight, further illustrates the leader's dedication. The number seventy often represents completeness and perfection in the Bible, suggesting that the offering is whole and acceptable to God. This weight, like the platter, is measured according to the sanctuary shekel, ensuring that the offering meets divine standards.

according to the sanctuary shekel
The sanctuary shekel, "שֶׁקֶל הַקֹּדֶשׁ" (shekel ha-kodesh), was a specific standard used in the tabernacle. This standardization reflects God's order and precision in worship practices. It ensures that all offerings are equitable and acceptable, highlighting the importance of integrity and honesty in giving to God.

both of them full of fine flour mixed with oil
Fine flour, "סֹלֶת" (solet), represents the best of the harvest, symbolizing the offering of one's best to God. The mixing with oil, "שֶׁמֶן" (shemen), signifies the presence of the Holy Spirit, anointing, and consecration. Together, they form a grain offering, "מִנְחָה" (minchah), which is a voluntary act of worship, expressing gratitude and dedication to God.

for a grain offering
The grain offering, a key component of the sacrificial system, is an expression of thanksgiving and devotion. It is a non-blood offering, emphasizing the worshiper's desire to honor God with the fruits of their labor. This offering, part of the broader sacrificial system, points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who fulfills and perfects all offerings through His atoning work on the cross.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nahshon
The leader of the tribe of Judah, who brought the offering described in this verse. He is a significant figure in the lineage of Jesus Christ, as mentioned in the genealogies in the New Testament.

2. Tribe of Judah
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its leadership role among the tribes and its association with kingship, as King David and Jesus Christ are from this tribe.

3. Tabernacle Dedication
The context of this verse is the dedication of the Tabernacle, where leaders of each tribe brought offerings over twelve days.

4. Sanctuary Shekel
A unit of weight used in the sanctuary, indicating the standardization and sacredness of the offerings.

5. Grain Offering
A type of offering made to God, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving, often associated with sustenance and provision.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order and Structure in Worship
The detailed description of the offerings and their weights underscores the importance of order and structure in worship. God values intentionality and precision in how we approach Him.

Symbolism of the Grain Offering
The grain offering, made of fine flour and oil, symbolizes our daily sustenance and reliance on God. It reminds us to offer our best to God in gratitude for His provision.

Leadership and Responsibility
Nahshon's role as a leader bringing the offering highlights the responsibility of leaders to set an example in worship and dedication to God.

Generosity in Giving
The substantial weight of the silver dish and bowl reflects the generosity expected in offerings to God. We are called to give generously and sacrificially, recognizing that all we have is from Him.

Continuity of God's Plan
The inclusion of Nahshon in the genealogy of Jesus emphasizes the continuity and faithfulness of God's plan throughout generations. It encourages us to trust in God's overarching plan for our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the specific weight and content of Nahshon's offering teach us about the nature of worship and offerings to God?

2. How does the role of Nahshon as a leader in this passage inform our understanding of spiritual leadership today?

3. In what ways can the symbolism of the grain offering be applied to our daily lives and spiritual practices?

4. How does the connection between Nahshon and the genealogy of Jesus Christ enhance our understanding of God's faithfulness and plan?

5. Reflect on a time when you have given generously to God. How did that experience impact your faith and relationship with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters describe the instructions for building the Tabernacle, which is the setting for the offerings in Numbers 7.

Leviticus 2
This chapter provides details on grain offerings, explaining their significance and how they are to be prepared and presented.

Matthew 1
The genealogy of Jesus Christ, which includes Nahshon, highlighting the continuity of God's plan through the tribe of Judah.