Numbers 7:73

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, each tribal leader of Israel presented offerings for the dedication of the altar. The silver platter, a significant and valuable item, symbolizes the wealth and dedication of the tribe. The weight of a hundred and thirty shekels indicates a substantial offering, reflecting the importance of the occasion. The use of silver, a precious metal, underscores the value placed on worship and dedication to God. This act of giving can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate offering of Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for humanity.

and one silver bowl weighing seventy shekels
The silver bowl, like the platter, is a symbol of wealth and devotion. Weighing seventy shekels, it complements the platter, together forming a complete offering. The use of silver in both items highlights the purity and worthiness required in offerings to God. This can be connected to the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1).

both according to the sanctuary shekel
The sanctuary shekel was a standard unit of weight used in the tabernacle, ensuring uniformity and fairness in offerings. This standardization reflects God's desire for order and consistency in worship. It also points to the importance of integrity and honesty in giving, as seen in the story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5, where deceit in offerings led to severe consequences.

and filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering
The grain offering, consisting of fine flour mixed with oil, represents sustenance and the fruits of human labor. Fine flour signifies purity and quality, while oil often symbolizes the Holy Spirit in Scripture. This offering is a reminder of God's provision and the need for gratitude and dedication in response. It also prefigures the bread of life, Jesus Christ, who sustains believers spiritually. The grain offering, as part of the sacrificial system, points to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who fulfills and transcends the Old Testament offerings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nahshon
The leader of the tribe of Judah, who was the first to present his offering during the dedication of the altar.

2. Tribe of Judah
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its leadership role and from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ descended.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence of God among the Israelites, where the offerings were made.

4. Sanctuary Shekel
A standard unit of weight used in the tabernacle, ensuring uniformity and fairness in offerings.

5. Grain Offering
A type of offering made to God, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving, often involving fine flour mixed with oil.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order in Worship
The structured presentation of offerings by each tribe reflects the importance of order and reverence in worship. Our worship should be intentional and respectful, acknowledging God's holiness.

Symbolism of the Grain Offering
The grain offering, made of fine flour and oil, symbolizes our dedication and thanksgiving to God. It reminds us to offer our best to God, not just in material terms but in our daily lives and actions.

Generosity and Sacrifice
The weight and value of the offerings indicate the generosity and sacrifice required in worship. We are called to give sacrificially, not out of obligation but out of love and gratitude for God's provision.

Unity Among God's People
Each tribe's participation in the offerings demonstrates unity and collective responsibility in worship. As believers, we are part of a larger community and should work together to honor God.

Legacy of Faith
The tribe of Judah's role in the offerings foreshadows its significance in biblical history, culminating in the birth of Jesus. Our actions today can have lasting impacts on future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the structured order of offerings in Numbers 7 reflect the importance of order in our personal worship practices?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the grain offering (fine flour mixed with oil) be applied to our daily lives as an expression of dedication to God?

3. What does the concept of the "sanctuary shekel" teach us about fairness and integrity in our offerings to God?

4. How can we foster unity and collective responsibility within our church community, similar to the tribes of Israel during the dedication of the altar?

5. Reflect on the legacy of faith within your own family or community. How can you contribute to a lasting impact for future generations, as seen in the tribe of Judah's role in biblical history?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25
Describes the construction of the Tabernacle and the use of the sanctuary shekel, emphasizing the importance of precise measurements in worship.

Leviticus 2
Details the grain offering, highlighting its role in expressing gratitude and dedication to God.

Matthew 1
Traces the genealogy of Jesus back to the tribe of Judah, underscoring the significance of Judah's leadership and offerings.