The Tribe of Simeon, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, is named after Simeon, the second son of Jacob and Leah. The tribe's role and contributions are noted throughout the biblical narrative, particularly during significant events such as the dedication of the altar in the wilderness.

Biblical Context

The dedication of the altar is a pivotal event described in the Book of Numbers, where the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel brought offerings for the dedication of the altar. This event took place after the construction of the Tabernacle, a central place of worship for the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

Offering of the Tribe of Simeon

The offering of the Tribe of Simeon is recorded in Numbers 7, where each tribe's leader presented their gifts over twelve days. The leader of the Simeonites at this time was Shelumiel son of Zurishaddai. On the fifth day, Shelumiel brought the offering on behalf of his tribe.

The Berean Standard Bible records the offering as follows:

"On the fifth day, Shelumiel son of Zurishaddai, the leader of the Simeonites, drew near. His offering was one silver dish weighing 130 shekels and one silver bowl weighing 70 shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering; one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense; one young bull, one ram, and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering; one male goat for a sin offering; and two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old, to present as a peace offering. This was the offering of Shelumiel son of Zurishaddai." (Numbers 7:36-41)

Significance of the Offering

The offerings made by the leaders of the tribes, including the Tribe of Simeon, were significant for several reasons:

1. Symbol of Unity and Commitment: Each tribe's offering was identical, symbolizing unity among the tribes and their collective commitment to the worship of Yahweh. The uniformity of the offerings underscored the equality and shared purpose among the tribes.

2. Dedication to God: The offerings were a form of dedication to God, acknowledging His presence and sovereignty. The act of giving was an expression of gratitude and reverence, recognizing God's provision and guidance.

3. Role of Leadership: The leaders, such as Shelumiel, played a crucial role in representing their tribes before God. Their participation in the dedication ceremony highlighted the importance of godly leadership and responsibility in guiding the people in worship and obedience.

4. Spiritual and Communal Significance: The offerings included elements for various types of sacrifices—burnt offerings, sin offerings, and peace offerings—each with its own spiritual significance. These sacrifices were integral to the Israelites' relationship with God, serving as means of atonement, thanksgiving, and fellowship.

Conclusion

The offering of the Tribe of Simeon at the dedication of the altar reflects the tribe's participation in the communal worship and dedication to God. It serves as a testament to the unity and faithfulness of the Israelites during their formative years in the wilderness, as they sought to establish a covenant relationship with the Lord.Numbers 7:36-41
On the fifth day Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai, prince of the children of Simeon, did offer:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Dedication
... was established, the Lord chose the tribe of Levi in ... attention, and they presented
only the offering made by ... a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/the desire of ages/chapter 5 the dedication.htm

The Upbringing of Jewish Children
... people the words of blessing; and then, while the drink-offering was poured ... colonisation
in that direction, especially on the part of the tribe of Simeon. ...
/.../edersheim/sketches of jewish social life/chapter 7 the upbringing of.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... he had just saved from their foes, expressed their gratitude by offering the crown
to ... for we know that the people of Judah aided the tribe of Simeon in the ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... isolated districts, and by thus restricting each tribe to a ... achieved at one blow,
the enemy offering an obstinate ... have come to light, but the dedication of one ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

The Immaculate Conception
... who were still alive were celebrating with their tribe a three ... her child up on high
as though making an offering. ... I saw how the aged priest Simeon, who lived in ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/ii the immaculate conception.htm

The Blessing of Jacob Upon Judah. (Gen. Xlix. 8-10. )
... by the blessing of Jacob, in which the tribe of Judah ... are subordinate to Judah; that
Reuben, Simeon, and Gad ... place: "And he that offered his offering the first ...
/.../hengstenberg/christology of the old testament/the blessing of jacob upon.htm

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