Numbers 7:65

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

Study Bible

and a peace offering of two oxen
The peace offering, also known as a fellowship offering, was a voluntary sacrifice expressing thanksgiving and communion with God. The use of oxen, significant for their strength and value, underscores the importance of the offering. Oxen were often used in sacrifices due to their size and the substantial amount of meat they provided, symbolizing abundance and God's provision. This offering reflects the communal aspect of worship in Israel, where the offerer, priests, and sometimes the community shared in the meal.

five rams
Rams were often used in sacrificial offerings, symbolizing leadership and strength. The number five can signify grace or God's goodness in biblical numerology. Rams were also used in the consecration of priests (Exodus 29:1), indicating a connection to holiness and dedication to God. The inclusion of rams in the peace offering highlights the completeness and richness of the sacrifice.

five male goats
Goats were commonly used in sin offerings (Leviticus 4:23), representing atonement and purification. The presence of five male goats in this peace offering may symbolize the need for cleansing and reconciliation with God, even in times of thanksgiving and fellowship. Goats also remind us of the scapegoat ritual on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16), pointing to the removal of sin.

and five male lambs a year old
Lambs, especially those a year old, were considered pure and without blemish, making them suitable for sacrifice. The lamb is a significant type of Christ, the "Lamb of God" (John 1:29), who takes away the sin of the world. The number five again emphasizes grace, and the inclusion of lambs in the offering points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who brings peace between God and humanity.

This was the offering of Abidan son of Gideoni.
Abidan, the leader of the tribe of Benjamin, presents this offering on behalf of his tribe. His name means "my father is judge," which may reflect the role of God as the ultimate judge and provider. The tribe of Benjamin, though small, played a significant role in Israel's history, producing leaders like King Saul and the Apostle Paul. This offering signifies the tribe's participation in the communal worship and dedication to God, highlighting the unity and diversity within the twelve tribes of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abidan
He is the son of Gideoni and the leader of the tribe of Benjamin. Abidan's offering is part of the dedication of the altar, representing his tribe's participation in the communal worship and dedication to God.

2. 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.

3. Peace Offerings
These offerings were a type of fellowship offering, symbolizing peace and communion with God. They were part of the sacrificial system established by God for Israel.

4. Oxen, Rams, Goats, Lambs
These animals were used in various offerings and sacrifices, each having specific symbolic meanings and purposes in the sacrificial system.

5. Dedication of the Altar
This event involved the leaders of the twelve tribes bringing offerings over twelve days to dedicate the altar in the Tabernacle, signifying the unity and commitment of the entire nation to God.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Peace Offerings
The peace offerings symbolize reconciliation and fellowship with God. As believers, we are called to live in peace with God and others, reflecting the peace that Christ has made possible through His sacrifice.

Unity in Worship
The collective offerings of the tribes demonstrate the importance of unity in worship. In the church today, unity among believers is crucial for effective worship and witness.

Generosity in Giving
The offerings were generous and costly, reminding us of the importance of giving our best to God. Our time, talents, and resources should be offered willingly and joyfully.

Role of Leadership
Abidan's role as a leader highlights the responsibility of spiritual leaders to guide their communities in worship and dedication to God. Leaders today should model commitment and integrity.

Spiritual Dedication
Just as the altar was dedicated, our lives should be dedicated to God. This involves daily surrender and commitment to His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the peace offering symbolize, and how can we apply this concept of peace and fellowship in our daily lives?

2. How does the unity of the tribes in offering sacrifices relate to the unity of the church today?

3. In what ways can we demonstrate generosity in our offerings to God, and what might this look like in practical terms?

4. What responsibilities do spiritual leaders have in guiding their communities, and how can we support them in this role?

5. How can we dedicate our lives to God in a manner similar to the dedication of the altar, and what practical steps can we take to live as living sacrifices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3
Provides detailed instructions on peace offerings, highlighting their purpose in maintaining a right relationship with God and community.

Hebrews 13:15-16
Discusses the concept of offering sacrifices of praise and doing good, connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to New Testament practices of worship and service.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel between the physical offerings of the Old Testament and the spiritual dedication expected of Christians.