Numbers 7:55

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, weighing 130 shekels, was a significant gift, reflecting the wealth and devotion of the tribe. The use of silver, a precious metal, underscores the value placed on worship and dedication to God. The weight of the platter, measured in shekels, aligns with the ancient Near Eastern practice of using standardized weights for trade and offerings, ensuring fairness and consistency in religious practices.

and one silver bowl weighing seventy shekels
The silver bowl, weighing 70 shekels, complements the platter, indicating a complete and generous offering. The bowl's purpose was likely for holding the grain offering, symbolizing sustenance and provision. The specific weight again highlights the importance of precision and adherence to divine instructions in worship. This offering reflects the communal responsibility and participation in the religious life of Israel, as each tribe contributed equally to the dedication of the altar.

both according to the sanctuary shekel
The mention of the "sanctuary shekel" indicates a standardized weight used specifically for religious purposes, distinct from common commercial weights. This standardization ensured that offerings were made with integrity and uniformity, reflecting the holiness and orderliness required in worship. The sanctuary shekel was likely heavier than the common shekel, emphasizing the sacredness of the offerings made 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 Israelite religious system. Fine flour represents purity and the best of one's produce, while oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit and anointing. This offering was a non-blood sacrifice, signifying thanksgiving, dedication, and fellowship with God. It points to the sustenance provided by God and the worshiper's dependence on Him. The grain offering can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the Bread of Life, offering spiritual nourishment and sustenance to believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abidan
He was the leader of the tribe of Benjamin during the time of the wilderness wanderings. His name means "my father is judge," reflecting a heritage of leadership and responsibility.

2. Gideoni
The father of Abidan, mentioned here to establish lineage and tribal affiliation, which was important for maintaining order and identity among the Israelites.

3. Tribe of Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its warriors and later for being the tribe of King Saul and the Apostle Paul.

4. Peace Offerings
A type of sacrifice in the Old Testament that symbolized fellowship and thanksgiving to God. It was a voluntary act of worship, expressing gratitude and a desire for peace with God.

5. Wilderness Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness, where offerings and sacrifices were made.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Thanksgiving
Just as the peace offerings were a way for the Israelites to express gratitude, we are called to live lives marked by thanksgiving, recognizing God's provision and grace in our lives.

Community and Fellowship
The peace offerings were shared among the people, highlighting the importance of community in worship. We are encouraged to foster fellowship and unity within the body of Christ.

Sacrificial Giving
Abidan's offering was generous and costly, reminding us that our worship should involve giving our best to God, whether it be our time, resources, or talents.

Heritage and Identity
Abidan's lineage is noted, underscoring the importance of understanding our spiritual heritage and identity in Christ, which shapes our purpose and mission.

Peace with God
The peace offerings symbolized reconciliation and peace with God. Through Christ, we have ultimate peace and are called to be peacemakers in our relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of peace offerings in Numbers 7:55 relate to the way we express gratitude to God today?

2. In what ways can we foster a sense of community and fellowship in our local church, similar to the communal aspect of the peace offerings?

3. Reflect on a time when you gave sacrificially. How did it impact your relationship with God and others?

4. How does understanding our spiritual heritage and identity in Christ influence our daily walk and decisions?

5. What practical steps can we take to be peacemakers in our families, workplaces, and communities, reflecting the peace we have with God through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3
Provides detailed instructions on peace offerings, emphasizing the importance of offering the best to God and the communal aspect of sharing the meal.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, paralleling the peace offerings as acts of gratitude and trust in God's provision.

Hebrews 13:15-16
Speaks of offering a sacrifice of praise and doing good, which aligns with the spirit of the peace offerings as expressions of worship and community.