Numbers 7:79

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 offerings are part of the dedication of the altar by the leaders of Israel. The silver platter, a significant and valuable item, symbolizes the wealth and dedication of the tribe. The weight of 130 shekels, using the sanctuary shekel, indicates a standardized measure, ensuring fairness and consistency in offerings. This reflects the importance of precision and integrity in worship. Silver, often associated with redemption, can be seen as a type of Christ, who redeems humanity.

and one silver bowl weighing seventy shekels
The silver bowl, like the platter, is a valuable item, emphasizing the importance of the offering. The specific weight of seventy shekels again underscores the use of the sanctuary shekel, highlighting the sacredness of the offering. The bowl's purpose, to hold the grain offering, signifies the sustenance and provision from God. In a broader biblical context, bowls are often used in temple service, symbolizing the vessel of God's blessings.

both according to the sanctuary shekel
The sanctuary shekel was a standard unit of weight used in the tabernacle and later the temple, ensuring that all offerings met a divine standard. This standardization reflects God's order and justice, ensuring that all tribes contributed equally to the tabernacle's service. It also points to the idea that worship and offerings should be measured and intentional, not arbitrary.

and filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering
The grain offering, consisting of fine flour mixed with oil, represents the fruit of human labor and God's provision. Fine flour indicates purity and quality, while oil often symbolizes the Holy Spirit. This offering is a type of Christ, who is the Bread of Life, pure and anointed by the Spirit. The grain offering was a voluntary act of worship, expressing gratitude and dedication to God, and it foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who offered Himself willingly for humanity's redemption.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ahira son of Enan
The leader of the tribe of Naphtali, who presented the offering described in this verse.

2. Tribe of Naphtali
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Naphtali, the son of Jacob and Bilhah.

3. Tabernacle Dedication
The context of this verse is the dedication of the Tabernacle, where leaders of each tribe brought offerings.

4. Sanctuary Shekel
A unit of weight used in the sanctuary, indicating the standard for offerings.

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

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order and Structure in Worship
The detailed description of offerings highlights the importance of order and structure in worship, reflecting God's nature of orderliness.

Symbolism of the Grain Offering
The grain offering, made of fine flour and oil, symbolizes dedication and thanksgiving. It reminds believers to offer their best to God in gratitude.

Generosity and Sacrifice
The weight and value of the offerings underscore the principle of giving generously and sacrificially to God, trusting in His provision.

Unity in Diversity
Each tribe brought similar offerings, yet each was unique to its leader, illustrating unity in diversity within the body of believers.

Faithfulness in Small Things
The meticulous recording of each offering encourages faithfulness in small things, knowing that God values every act of obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the specific mention of weights and measures in Numbers 7:79 teach us about the nature of our offerings to God?

2. How does the grain offering in this passage connect to the broader theme of thanksgiving in the Bible?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of giving our best to God in our daily lives?

4. How does the unity of the tribes in their offerings reflect the unity we should strive for in the church today?

5. Reflect on a time when you were faithful in a small task. How did that experience impact your spiritual growth and relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:29
Discusses the use of silver in the Tabernacle, connecting to the silver dish and bowl in Numbers 7:79.

Leviticus 2:1-16
Provides details on grain offerings, explaining their significance and preparation.

Hebrews 9:1-10
Reflects on the earthly sanctuary and its offerings, pointing to the greater spiritual truths fulfilled in Christ.