Numbers 7:53

and a peace offering of two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old. This was the offering of Elishama son of Ammihud.

Study Bible

and a peace offering of two oxen
The peace offering, also known as a fellowship offering, was a voluntary sacrifice made to express gratitude and fellowship with God. The use of oxen, which were valuable animals, signifies the importance and sincerity of the offering. Oxen were often used in sacrifices due to their size and value, symbolizing strength and service. This offering reflects the communal aspect of worship in Israel, where the offerer, priests, and sometimes the community would partake in the sacrificial meal, symbolizing peace and reconciliation with God.

five rams
Rams were often used in sacrificial offerings due to their significance as symbols of leadership and strength. The number five can symbolize grace or God's goodness in biblical numerology. The inclusion of rams in the peace offering highlights the completeness and abundance of the offering, as well as the offerer's desire to honor God with valuable and significant sacrifices.

five male goats
Goats were commonly used in various offerings, including sin offerings, due to their availability and significance in pastoral societies. The male goat, in particular, was often associated with atonement and purification. The presence of five male goats in the peace offering underscores the offerer's intent to seek purity and favor from God, as well as to express gratitude for His provision and protection.

and five male lambs a year old
Lambs, especially those a year old, were considered ideal for sacrifices due to their innocence and purity. The use of five male lambs further emphasizes the theme of grace and divine favor. Lambs are often seen as types of Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). This connection foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who brings peace and reconciliation between God and humanity.

This was the offering of Elishama son of Ammihud.
Elishama, a leader of the tribe of Ephraim, presents this offering on behalf of his tribe. Ephraim was one of the prominent tribes of Israel, often associated with fruitfulness and blessing. The mention of Elishama's lineage, "son of Ammihud," highlights the importance of family heritage and leadership within the tribal structure of Israel. This offering reflects the collective worship and dedication of the tribe, as well as their acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions from God regarding the offerings.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were commanded to bring offerings for the dedication of the altar.

3. Tribe of Naphtali
The specific tribe mentioned in the context of Numbers 7, which brought offerings on the twelfth day.

4. Tabernacle
The dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where the offerings were made.

5. Sin Offering
A specific type of offering made to atone for sin, symbolizing purification and reconciliation with God.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Sin Offering
The sin offering in the Old Testament was a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice. It reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.

The Role of Sacrifice in Worship
Sacrifices were central to Israelite worship, symbolizing dedication and obedience to God. Today, we are called to offer our lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites' adherence to God's instructions for offerings demonstrates the importance of obedience in our relationship with God. Obedience is a form of worship and trust in God's plan.

God's Provision for Sin
The provision of a sin offering shows God's desire for reconciliation with His people. It points to His grace and mercy, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Community and Worship
The collective participation of the tribes in offering sacrifices highlights the communal aspect of worship. As believers, we are part of a community that supports and encourages one another in faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a sin offering in Numbers 7:53 help us understand the nature of sin and atonement in the Old Testament?

2. In what ways does the sin offering point to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and how does this enhance our understanding of His work on the cross?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in the Israelites' offerings to our daily walk with God?

4. What are some practical ways we can offer our lives as living sacrifices in today's context, as encouraged in Romans 12:1?

5. How does participating in a community of believers enhance our worship and understanding of God's provision for sin?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 4
Provides detailed instructions on the sin offering, emphasizing its role in atonement and forgiveness.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the insufficiency of animal sacrifices and points to Christ as the ultimate sin offering.

1 John 1:9
Highlights the promise of forgiveness and cleansing from sin through confession, connecting to the purpose of the sin offering.