Numbers 7:31

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 was one silver platter weighing a hundred and thirty shekels
In the context of Numbers 7, the leaders of Israel's tribes brought offerings for the dedication of the altar. The silver platter, a significant and valuable item, reflects the wealth and status of the tribal leaders. The weight of 130 shekels, using the sanctuary shekel, indicates a standardized measure used in the tabernacle, ensuring fairness and consistency. This offering symbolizes the dedication and commitment of the people to God, as silver often represents redemption in biblical symbolism.

and one silver bowl weighing seventy shekels
The silver bowl, weighing seventy shekels, complements the platter and further emphasizes the importance of the offering. The use of silver in both items highlights the preciousness of the offering and the reverence the leaders had for God. The number seventy can symbolize completeness or perfection, often associated with the nations of the world, suggesting a comprehensive dedication to God.

both according to the sanctuary shekel
The sanctuary shekel was a specific weight standard used in the tabernacle, ensuring that all offerings were measured equally. This standardization reflects God's order and justice, ensuring that each tribe's offering was of equal value and significance. It underscores the importance of fairness and integrity in worship and offerings to God.

and filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering
The grain offering, consisting of fine flour mixed with oil, was a common sacrificial offering in the Old Testament, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving to God. Fine flour represents purity and the best of what one can offer, while oil often symbolizes the Holy Spirit and anointing. This offering points to the future sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is the Bread of Life, and the anointing of the Holy Spirit upon Him. The grain offering was a way for the Israelites to express gratitude and reliance on God for provision and sustenance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nashon
The leader of the tribe of Judah, who brought the offering described in this verse. Nashon is significant as he is an ancestor of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ.

2. Tribe of Judah
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its leadership role among the tribes and its association with kingship and the lineage of Jesus.

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God during their journey through the wilderness. The offerings were made for the dedication of the altar.

4. Sanctuary Shekel
A unit of weight used in the tabernacle, ensuring that offerings met a standard measure.

5. Grain Offering
A type of offering made to God, consisting of fine flour mixed with oil, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order and Structure in Worship
The detailed description of offerings in Numbers 7 emphasizes 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 dedication and thanksgiving. It reminds us to offer our best to God, acknowledging His provision and grace.

Generosity and Sacrifice
The weight and value of the offerings reflect the generosity and sacrifice required in worship. We are called to give sacrificially, not out of obligation, but out of love and gratitude.

Continuity of God's Plan
The mention of Nashon and the tribe of Judah connects to the broader account of God's redemptive plan, culminating in Jesus Christ. It reminds us of God's faithfulness across generations.

Community and Collective Worship
The offerings were part of a collective dedication of the altar, highlighting the importance of community in worship. We are encouraged to participate in communal acts of worship and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed description of offerings in Numbers 7:31 reflect the importance of order and structure in our own worship practices today?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the grain offering (fine flour mixed with oil) inspire us to offer our best to God in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of sacrificial giving, as seen in the offerings of Numbers 7, challenge our current understanding of generosity?

4. What significance does the inclusion of Nashon and the tribe of Judah in this passage have for understanding the continuity of God's plan through the Bible?

5. How can we foster a sense of community and collective worship in our own church or fellowship group, drawing inspiration from the communal dedication of the altar in Numbers 7?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-30
These chapters describe the construction and furnishing of the Tabernacle, providing context for the offerings made in Numbers 7.

Leviticus 2
This chapter outlines the regulations for grain offerings, explaining their significance and how they are to be prepared and presented.

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