Numbers 7:59

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

Study Bible

and one male goat
The phrase "and one male goat" refers to the specific animal chosen for the offering. In the Hebrew context, the word for "goat" is "sa'ir," which often denotes a hairy or shaggy goat. Goats were common in ancient Israel and were used for various purposes, including sacrifices. The choice of a male goat is significant, as it was considered a valuable offering, symbolizing strength and vitality. In the sacrificial system, the male goat often represented the substitutionary atonement for sin, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who bore our sins.

for a sin offering
The term "for a sin offering" is derived from the Hebrew word "chatta'ah," which means sin or sin offering. This type of offering was crucial in the Levitical system, as it provided a means for the Israelites to atone for their sins and restore their relationship with God. The sin offering was a vivid reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for purification. It foreshadowed the perfect and final atonement made by Jesus Christ on the cross, who became the ultimate sin offering for humanity. The sin offering underscores the holiness of God and His provision for reconciliation through sacrifice.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The people of God who are bringing offerings as part of the dedication of the altar.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence, where the offerings are made.

4. Burnt Offering
A sacrificial offering that is completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God.

5. Tribe of Gad
The tribe making the offering on this particular day as part of the dedication ceremony.

Teaching Points

Total Dedication to God
The burnt offering symbolizes complete surrender to God. As believers, we are called to dedicate our lives wholly to Him, just as the offering was wholly consumed.

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites followed God's specific instructions for offerings. This teaches us the importance of obedience to God's Word in our own lives.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The sacrificial system points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus. Understanding this helps us appreciate the depth of Christ's sacrifice and its implications for our salvation.

Community Worship and Participation
Each tribe participated in the dedication of the altar, highlighting the importance of communal worship and collective dedication to God.

God's Provision and Order
The structured nature of the offerings reflects God's order and provision. Recognizing this can encourage us to trust in God's plan and provision in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a burnt offering in Numbers 7:59 relate to the idea of being a "living sacrifice" in Romans 12:1?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate total dedication to God in our daily lives, similar to the burnt offering?

3. How does the sacrificial system in the Old Testament enhance our understanding of Jesus' sacrifice as described in Hebrews 10?

4. What can we learn from the Israelites' obedience in following God's instructions for offerings, and how can we apply this to our own spiritual practices?

5. How does participating in communal worship and dedication, as seen in the dedication of the altar, strengthen our faith and community today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 1
Provides detailed instructions on how burnt offerings are to be made, emphasizing the importance of sacrifice and atonement.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to the New Covenant.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the concept of total dedication seen in burnt offerings.