Numbers 7:25

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
The phrase "his offering" refers to the individual contribution made by a leader of Israel during the dedication of the altar. In Hebrew, the word for offering is "קָרְבָּן" (korban), which signifies something brought near to God. This reflects the personal devotion and commitment of the leader, symbolizing a heart willing to draw near to the Lord in worship and service.

one silver dish
The "silver dish" is a significant item, symbolizing wealth and purity. Silver, in biblical times, was a precious metal often associated with redemption and refinement. The Hebrew word for dish, "קְעָרָה" (qe'arah), suggests a vessel used for sacred purposes, indicating the sanctity of the offering.

weighing a hundred and thirty shekels
The weight of "a hundred and thirty shekels" underscores the substantial nature of the offering. The shekel, "שֶׁקֶל" (shekel), was a standard unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel. This specific weight signifies a generous and significant contribution, reflecting the leader's dedication and the value placed on worship.

one silver bowl of seventy shekels
The "silver bowl" complements the dish, with "seventy shekels" indicating a precise and intentional offering. The Hebrew word for bowl, "מִזְרָק" (mizraq), often refers to a vessel used in temple rituals, highlighting the ceremonial importance of the offering. The number seventy, often associated with completeness and perfection in Scripture, suggests a holistic and complete act of worship.

according to the sanctuary shekel
The phrase "according to the sanctuary shekel" indicates that the weight was measured by the standard used in the tabernacle, ensuring uniformity and fairness. This standardization, "שֶׁקֶל הַקֹּדֶשׁ" (shekel ha-kodesh), emphasizes the divine order and precision required in offerings to God, reflecting His holiness and the need for integrity in worship.

both of them full of fine flour mixed with oil
The contents, "fine flour mixed with oil," were common elements in grain offerings, symbolizing sustenance and the anointing of the Holy Spirit. "Fine flour," or "סֹלֶת" (solet), represents purity and the best of human labor, while "oil," or "שֶׁמֶן" (shemen), signifies consecration and the presence of the Spirit. Together, they illustrate a life dedicated to God, enriched by His Spirit.

for a grain offering
The "grain offering," or "מִנְחָה" (minchah), was a voluntary act of worship, expressing gratitude and devotion. It was a non-blood offering, highlighting the worshiper's desire to honor God with the fruits of their labor. This offering points to the believer's call to present their lives as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, as an act of spiritual worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the offerings from the leaders of the tribes.

2. Israelite Leaders
The heads of the twelve tribes of Israel who brought offerings for the dedication of the altar.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, where the offerings were made.

4. Peace Offering
A type of sacrifice in the Old Testament that symbolized fellowship and thanksgiving to God.

5. Tribe of Ephraim
The tribe whose leader, Elishama son of Ammihud, brought the offerings on the seventh day.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Peace Offerings
Peace offerings in the Old Testament were a way to express gratitude and maintain fellowship with God. Today, our lives should reflect a continual offering of thanksgiving and praise.

Symbolism of the Sacrifices
The specific animals used in the peace offering symbolize completeness and perfection in worship. Our worship should strive for sincerity and wholeheartedness.

Community and Worship
The collective offerings from the tribes highlight the importance of community in worship. As believers, we are called to support and encourage one another in our spiritual journeys.

Generosity in Giving
The leaders' willingness to give generously for the dedication of the altar serves as a model for our own giving. We should give not out of obligation, but out of love and gratitude.

Christ as Our Peace Offering
Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of the peace offering, having reconciled us to God through His sacrifice. Our response should be one of faith and devotion.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a peace offering in Numbers 7:25 relate to our modern understanding of worship and thanksgiving?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the principles of generosity and community from this passage into our daily lives?

3. How does the peace offering foreshadow the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and what implications does this have for our faith?

4. What are some practical ways we can offer "sacrifices of praise" in our current context, as encouraged in Hebrews 13:15?

5. How can the unity and cooperation among the Israelite tribes in their offerings inspire us to work together in our church communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3
Provides detailed instructions on peace offerings, emphasizing the importance of fellowship and thanksgiving in worship.

Hebrews 13:15
Encourages believers to continually offer a sacrifice of praise, connecting the peace offering to New Testament worship.

Romans 12:1
Calls believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the dedication and offerings in Numbers.