Numbers 7:48

On the seventh day Elishama son of Ammihud, the leader of the Ephraimites, drew near.

Study Bible

On the seventh day
The phrase "on the seventh day" signifies completion and perfection in biblical numerology. The number seven often represents divine completeness, as seen in the creation account where God rested on the seventh day. This day marks the culmination of a week-long dedication of offerings, symbolizing the fullness of worship and dedication to God. It reminds us of the importance of rest and reflection in our spiritual journey, acknowledging God's sovereignty and provision.

Elishama son of Ammihud
Elishama, whose name means "God has heard," is a significant figure in the tribe of Ephraim. His lineage, being the son of Ammihud, places him within a respected family line, emphasizing the importance of heritage and faithfulness in leadership. This highlights the biblical principle that God hears and responds to the cries of His people, and He raises leaders who are attuned to His voice. Elishama's role underscores the responsibility of leaders to be attentive to God's guidance and to lead with integrity.

the leader of the Ephraimites
Ephraim, one of the tribes of Israel, holds a prominent place in biblical history. As a leader of the Ephraimites, Elishama represents a tribe known for its strength and fruitfulness, as prophesied by Jacob in Genesis 48:19. The Ephraimites were often seen as a leading tribe in the northern kingdom of Israel. This leadership role signifies the importance of stewardship and the call to lead others in faithfulness to God's covenant. It serves as a reminder that leadership in God's kingdom is both a privilege and a responsibility, requiring wisdom and humility.

drew near
The act of drawing near is a powerful expression of worship and devotion. In the Hebrew context, drawing near often implies approaching God with reverence and a heart prepared for offering. This phrase encapsulates the essence of worship—coming into the presence of God with a sincere and humble heart. It challenges believers to consider how they approach God in their own lives, encouraging a posture of reverence and readiness to offer themselves fully to Him. This act of drawing near is a beautiful reminder of the intimacy and relationship God desires with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elishama son of Ammihud
Elishama is identified as the leader of the tribe of Ephraim. His name means "God has heard," which reflects a deep connection to divine communication and response.

2. Ephraimites
This refers to the descendants of Ephraim, one of the tribes of Israel. Ephraim was the second son of Joseph, and his tribe was known for its significant role in the history of Israel.

3. The Seventh Day
This day marks the specific time when Elishama brought his offering. The number seven often symbolizes completion and perfection in the Bible, indicating the fulfillment of a divine order.

4. Offering
The context of this verse is the dedication of the altar, where leaders from each tribe brought offerings over twelve days. Elishama's offering is part of this larger event of consecration and worship.

5. Tabernacle Dedication
The broader event is the dedication of the Tabernacle, a central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

Teaching Points

Leadership and Responsibility
Elishama's role as a leader reminds us of the importance of godly leadership and the responsibility leaders have in guiding their people in worship and obedience to God.

Symbolism of Numbers
The use of the number seven in this context can remind believers of God's perfect timing and the completion of His plans. It encourages trust in God's divine order.

Worship and Dedication
The dedication of the Tabernacle and the offerings brought by the leaders emphasize the importance of worship and dedication in the life of a believer. It calls us to consider how we dedicate our lives and resources to God.

Community and Unity
The collective offerings from each tribe highlight the unity and community among God's people. It challenges us to work together in our faith communities for the common purpose of glorifying God.

Faithfulness in Small Acts
Elishama's act of bringing an offering, though seemingly small, was part of a larger act of worship. This teaches us that our small acts of faithfulness contribute to God's greater plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Elishama's role as a leader in the context of worship and dedication, and how can we apply this to our roles in our communities today?

2. How does the symbolism of the number seven in this passage encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan for our lives?

3. In what ways can we dedicate our resources and talents to God, similar to the offerings brought by the leaders of the tribes?

4. How does the unity displayed by the tribes in bringing their offerings challenge us to foster unity within our own faith communities?

5. Reflect on a "small act" of faithfulness you can commit to this week that contributes to the larger mission of your church or community. How does this relate to the offerings in Numbers 7?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
This chapter provides background on Ephraim, where Jacob blesses him and his brother Manasseh, indicating the future prominence of Ephraim's descendants.

Joshua 17
This passage highlights the inheritance of the tribe of Ephraim in the Promised Land, showing the fulfillment of God's promises to the descendants of Joseph.

Hebrews 13:15
This New Testament verse speaks about offering a sacrifice of praise, connecting the physical offerings in Numbers to the spiritual sacrifices Christians are called to make.