30,500 donkeys, including a tribute to the LORD of 61, 30,500 donkeysThe mention of "30,500 donkeys" highlights the abundance of resources acquired by the Israelites after their victory over the Midianites. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, donkeys were valuable assets, used for transportation and agricultural work. The Hebrew word for donkey, "חֲמוֹר" (chamor), signifies strength and service. This large number reflects the magnitude of the victory and the wealth that God provided to His people. It serves as a reminder of God's provision and the importance of stewardship over the resources He entrusts to His followers. of which the tribute to the LORD was 61 Persons / Places / Events 1. MosesThe leader of the Israelites who is overseeing the distribution of the spoils of war. 2. Israelites The people of God who are receiving instructions on how to handle the spoils from their victory over the Midianites. 3. Midianites The people defeated by the Israelites, whose possessions are being divided. 4. The LORD God, to whom a tribute is given as an acknowledgment of His provision and victory. 5. Donkeys Part of the livestock taken as spoils, representing wealth and resources. Teaching Points Acknowledgment of God's ProvisionThe tribute to the LORD signifies recognition of His role in granting victory and providing resources. Obedience in Giving The Israelites' act of giving a portion of the spoils demonstrates obedience to God's commands, which is a principle applicable to modern-day stewardship. The Principle of Firstfruits Giving the first portion to God reflects the principle of firstfruits, teaching us to prioritize God in our finances and resources. Community and Worship The collective act of giving a tribute fosters a sense of community and shared worship among the Israelites, reminding us of the importance of communal worship and support. Trust in God's Abundance By giving a portion of their resources, the Israelites show trust in God's continued provision, encouraging us to trust God with our resources. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the act of giving a tribute to the LORD in Numbers 31:39 reflect the Israelites' acknowledgment of God's role in their victory?2. In what ways can the principle of firstfruits, as seen in this passage, be applied to our modern-day financial practices? 3. How does the concept of obedience in giving, as demonstrated by the Israelites, challenge our current understanding of stewardship? 4. What parallels can be drawn between the communal aspect of giving in Numbers 31:39 and the New Testament teachings on the body of Christ? 5. How can trusting in God's provision, as exemplified by the Israelites' tribute, influence our approach to financial uncertainty today? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 13:13Discusses the redemption of the firstborn donkey, highlighting the significance of donkeys in Israelite culture and economy. Leviticus 27:30-33 Provides background on the concept of tithes and offerings, which is relevant to understanding the tribute given to the LORD. 1 Samuel 15:22 Emphasizes obedience over sacrifice, which can be related to the Israelites' obedience in giving the tribute. Proverbs 3:9-10 Encourages honoring the LORD with one's wealth, which is exemplified in the tribute given from the spoils. Malachi 3:10 Speaks about bringing tithes into the storehouse, paralleling the act of giving a portion of the spoils to God.
People Balaam, Beor, Daniel, Eleazar, Evi, Hur, Israelites, Levites, Midianites, Moses, Phinehas, Reba, Rekem, ZurPlaces Jericho, Jordan River, Midian, Moab, PeorTopics Asses, 61, 500, Donkeys, Hundred, Levy, Lord's, Sixty, Sixty-one, Thereof, Thirty, Thousand, Threescore, TributeDictionary of Bible Themes Numbers 31:36-41Library NumbersLike the last part of Exodus, and the whole of Leviticus, the first part of Numbers, i.-x. 28--so called,[1] rather inappropriately, from the census in i., iii., (iv.), xxvi.--is unmistakably priestly in its interests and language. Beginning with a census of the men of war (i.) and the order of the camp (ii.), it devotes specific attention to the Levites, their numbers and duties (iii., iv.). Then follow laws for the exclusion of the unclean, v. 1-4, for determining the manner and amount of restitution … John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Numbers 31:39 NIVNumbers 31:39 NLT Numbers 31:39 ESV Numbers 31:39 NASB Numbers 31:39 KJV Numbers 31:39 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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