Numbers 7:84

So these were the offerings from the leaders of Israel for the dedication of the altar when it was anointed: twelve silver platters, twelve silver bowls, and twelve gold dishes.

Study Bible

This was the dedication offering
The phrase "dedication offering" refers to the gifts presented to God as a sign of commitment and consecration. In Hebrew, the word for dedication is "chanukkah," which means to initiate or dedicate. This term is significant as it denotes the beginning of something sacred, setting apart the altar for holy use. The dedication offering symbolizes the leaders' acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and their willingness to serve Him wholeheartedly.

for the altar
The altar, in Hebrew "mizbeach," is a place of sacrifice and worship. It is central to Israelite worship, representing a meeting point between God and His people. The altar's dedication signifies its readiness to receive offerings, symbolizing the people's desire to maintain a relationship with God through sacrifice and obedience.

from the leaders of Israel
The leaders, or "nasi" in Hebrew, were the heads of the tribes of Israel. Their involvement in the dedication offering underscores the communal aspect of worship and leadership's role in guiding the people in spiritual matters. It highlights the importance of unity and collective responsibility in serving God.

when it was anointed
Anointing, from the Hebrew "mashach," involves consecrating something or someone for a sacred purpose. The anointing of the altar signifies its sanctification and readiness for divine service. This act of anointing is a physical representation of God's presence and blessing upon the altar, setting it apart for holy use.

twelve silver platters
The number twelve is significant in biblical numerology, often representing completeness or the twelve tribes of Israel. Silver, a precious metal, symbolizes purity and redemption. The silver platters, therefore, represent the tribes' collective offering to God, emphasizing their unity and shared commitment to His covenant.

twelve silver bowls
Similar to the platters, the silver bowls also symbolize the tribes' unity and dedication. Bowls, used for holding offerings, signify the readiness to present gifts to God. The use of silver further emphasizes the value and purity of the offerings, reflecting the sincerity of the leaders' devotion.

and twelve gold dishes
Gold, a symbol of divinity and kingship, represents the highest form of offering. The gold dishes highlight the leaders' recognition of God's supreme authority and their desire to honor Him with the best they have. The number twelve again underscores the unity and completeness of the offering, as each tribe contributes equally to the dedication.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Leaders of Israel
These were the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel, each representing their respective tribe in the dedication offering.

2. The Altar
The central place of worship in the Tabernacle where sacrifices and offerings were made to God. It was anointed and dedicated as part of the Israelites' worship practices.

3. Dedication Offering
A special offering made by the leaders of Israel to consecrate the altar for its sacred use. It included silver platters, bowls, and gold dishes.

4. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness, where God's presence dwelled among His people.

5. Anointing
The act of consecrating something or someone by applying oil, symbolizing the setting apart for God's service.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Dedication
Dedication signifies setting apart something for God's use. In our lives, we are called to dedicate our time, talents, and resources to God's service.

Symbolism of Numbers
The number twelve, representing the twelve tribes, signifies completeness and unity in worship. Our worship should be holistic, involving all aspects of our lives.

Generosity in Worship
The leaders' offerings were generous and costly, reflecting the value they placed on worship. We are encouraged to give our best to God, not out of obligation but out of love and reverence.

Anointing and Consecration
Anointing symbolizes being set apart for God's purposes. As believers, we are anointed by the Holy Spirit, called to live lives that reflect God's holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the dedication of the altar teach us about the importance of setting apart things for God's service in our own lives?

2. How can the unity of the twelve tribes in their offerings inspire us to seek unity within our church communities?

3. In what ways can we practice generosity in our worship and service to God today?

4. How does the concept of anointing in the Old Testament relate to the New Testament understanding of being anointed by the Holy Spirit?

5. Reflect on a time when you dedicated something (time, talent, or resource) to God. What impact did it have on your spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 40
Describes the setting up of the Tabernacle and the anointing of its components, including the altar, which parallels the dedication offerings in Numbers 7.

Leviticus 8
Details the consecration of Aaron and his sons, highlighting the importance of anointing in setting apart individuals and objects for holy purposes.

1 Kings 8
Solomon's dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem, which mirrors the dedication of the altar in the Tabernacle, emphasizing the continuity of worship practices.