Numbers 7:60

On the ninth day Abidan son of Gideoni, the leader of the Benjamites, drew near.

Study Bible

On the ninth day
The sequence of days in Numbers 7 highlights the dedication of the altar and the offerings brought by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel. Each day, a different leader presents offerings, symbolizing unity and equal participation among the tribes. The ninth day signifies the ongoing commitment and orderliness in worship, reflecting the structured approach God desires in His people's devotion.

Abidan son of Gideoni
Abidan, whose name means "my father is judge," is a representative of the tribe of Benjamin. His lineage, being the son of Gideoni, places him within the historical context of the Israelite journey through the wilderness. The mention of his father emphasizes the importance of family heritage and leadership within the tribes. This lineage is significant as it connects to the broader narrative of Israel's history, where family lines often play crucial roles in God's unfolding plan.

the leader of the Benjamites
As the leader of the Benjamites, Abidan holds a position of authority and responsibility. The tribe of Benjamin, though small, is significant in Israel's history. It is the tribe from which Israel's first king, Saul, would later come. This leadership role underscores the importance of each tribe's contribution to the nation of Israel, regardless of size. The Benjamites' later history, including their role in the division and reunification of Israel, adds depth to the understanding of their leader's participation in this event.

drew near
The act of drawing near is a significant expression of worship and obedience. In the context of the tabernacle, drawing near involves approaching God's presence with reverence and the appropriate offerings. This phrase reflects the broader biblical theme of approaching God with humility and the right heart, as seen in other scriptures such as James 4:8, "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." It also foreshadows the ultimate drawing near to God through Jesus Christ, who provides believers with direct access to the Father.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abidan
Abidan is identified as the son of Gideoni and the leader of the tribe of Benjamin. His name means "my father is judge," which reflects a heritage of leadership and justice.

2. Gideoni
The father of Abidan, though not much is detailed about him, his mention signifies the importance of lineage and heritage in Israelite society.

3. The Benjamites
This refers to the tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe is known for its warriors and later for producing Israel's first king, Saul.

4. The Ninth Day
This is part of a sequence of days during which the leaders of the tribes of Israel brought offerings for the dedication of the altar. Each day a different tribe presented its offerings.

5. The Dedication of the Altar
This event marks the consecration of the altar in the Tabernacle, a significant moment in Israel's worship and relationship with God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Leadership
Abidan's role as a leader of his tribe emphasizes the importance of godly leadership. Leaders are called to represent their people before God and to lead with integrity and faithfulness.

Heritage and Identity
The mention of Abidan as the son of Gideoni and leader of the Benjamites underscores the significance of heritage and identity in God's plan. Our spiritual heritage in Christ is vital to our identity as believers.

Dedication to God
The dedication of the altar is a reminder of the need for dedication in our own lives. Just as the altar was set apart for God's purposes, we are called to dedicate ourselves wholly to Him.

Unity in Worship
The sequence of offerings by each tribe illustrates the unity and diversity within the body of Israel. Similarly, the body of Christ is made up of diverse members, each contributing to the whole in worship and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. What qualities of leadership can we learn from Abidan's role as a leader of the Benjamites, and how can we apply these qualities in our own lives?

2. How does understanding our spiritual heritage in Christ influence our identity and purpose as believers?

3. In what ways can we dedicate ourselves more fully to God, following the example of the dedication of the altar?

4. How does the unity and diversity of the tribes of Israel in their offerings reflect the unity and diversity within the church today?

5. What lessons can we draw from the sequence of offerings in Numbers 7 about the importance of order and structure in our worship and service to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:27
This verse provides a prophetic blessing over Benjamin, describing him as a ravenous wolf. This connection highlights the tribe's future characteristics and their role in Israel's history.

1 Samuel 9:1-2
This passage introduces Saul, a Benjamite, as Israel's first king, showing the tribe's continued significance in Israel's leadership.

Hebrews 13:10
This New Testament verse speaks of an altar from which those who serve the tabernacle have no right to eat, drawing a spiritual parallel to the dedication of the altar in Numbers.