Numbers 31:40

and 16,000 people, including a tribute to the LORD of 32.

Study Bible

16,000 people
This phrase refers to the total number of captives taken from the Midianites after the Israelites' victory. The number 16,000 is significant in the context of ancient warfare, where captives were often taken as part of the spoils. In Hebrew, the word for "people" here is "nephesh," which can also mean "souls" or "living beings," emphasizing the humanity and individuality of each person. This large number reflects the scale of the conflict and the comprehensive nature of the victory granted by God to the Israelites. Historically, the taking of captives was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern warfare, serving both as a means of population control and as a source of labor.

32 taken as tribute for the LORD
The phrase "32 taken as tribute" indicates a specific portion of the captives set aside for the LORD. The Hebrew word for "tribute" is "mekes," which implies a levy or tax, something set apart for a higher purpose. This act of setting aside a portion for the LORD underscores the principle of dedicating the first fruits or a portion of one's gains to God, a recurring theme throughout the Bible. The number 32, while seemingly small compared to the total, represents a significant act of obedience and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. In the broader scriptural context, this tribute can be seen as an act of worship and recognition of God's role in granting victory. It also serves as a reminder of the Israelites' covenant relationship with God, where they are called to honor Him with their possessions and victories.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is overseeing the distribution of the spoils of war.

2. Israelites
The people of God who are involved in the battle against the Midianites.

3. Midianites
The people who were defeated by the Israelites as a judgment from God.

4. LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel to whom the tribute is given.

5. Tribute
The portion of the spoils dedicated to the LORD, signifying His sovereignty and holiness.

Teaching Points

Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty
The tribute to the LORD signifies the acknowledgment of His ultimate authority and ownership over all things. As believers, we are called to recognize God's sovereignty in our lives and dedicate our resources and talents to Him.

Holiness and Dedication
The act of setting apart a portion for the LORD reflects the call to holiness and dedication. We are reminded to live lives that are set apart for God's purposes, reflecting His holiness in our actions and decisions.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' obedience in giving the tribute demonstrates the importance of following God's instructions. In our lives, we are called to obey God's Word and trust in His guidance, even when it requires sacrifice.

Gratitude and Worship
Offering a tribute to the LORD is an act of gratitude and worship. We are encouraged to cultivate a heart of thankfulness, recognizing God's provision and expressing our worship through giving and service.

Community and Responsibility
The distribution of the spoils and the tribute highlights the importance of community and shared responsibility. As members of the body of Christ, we are called to support one another and contribute to the needs of the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a tribute to the LORD in Numbers 31:40 reflect the principle of tithing and offerings in other parts of the Bible?

2. In what ways can we acknowledge God's sovereignty in our daily lives, similar to how the Israelites dedicated a portion to the LORD?

3. How does the act of giving a tribute to God challenge us to live lives of holiness and dedication today?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate obedience to God's commands, even when it requires personal sacrifice?

5. How can we foster a sense of community and shared responsibility within our church or small group, inspired by the distribution of the spoils in Numbers 31?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:11-16
Discusses the concept of a ransom or tribute to the LORD, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging God's ownership and provision.

Leviticus 27:30-33
Relates to the idea of dedicating a portion to God, highlighting the principle of tithing and offerings.

1 Samuel 15:22
Stresses obedience to God over sacrifices, which can be connected to the importance of following God's commands in Numbers 31.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to dedicating a portion to God.