Numbers 31:52

All the gold that the commanders of thousands and of hundreds presented as an offering to the LORD weighed 16,750 shekels.

Study Bible

All the gold
The phrase "All the gold" signifies the totality and completeness of the offering brought before the Lord. In the Hebrew context, gold (זָהָב, zahav) is often associated with purity, wealth, and divine presence. Gold was a precious metal used extensively in the construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, symbolizing the value and purity required in worship. The Israelites' offering of gold here reflects their acknowledgment of God's provision and their dedication to Him. Historically, gold was a common medium of wealth and trade in the ancient Near East, and its use in religious contexts underscores its importance and the Israelites' commitment to honoring God with their best.

that the commanders of thousands and of hundreds
This phrase highlights the structured military organization of the Israelites, with leaders responsible for large groups of soldiers. The "commanders of thousands and of hundreds" (שָׂרֵי הָאֲלָפִים וְשָׂרֵי הַמֵּאוֹת, sarei ha'alafim v'sarei hame'ot) indicates a hierarchical system that ensured order and accountability. In the broader biblical narrative, such organization reflects God's desire for order and leadership among His people. The commanders' role in bringing the gold suggests their responsibility not only in military matters but also in spiritual and communal obligations, demonstrating a holistic approach to leadership that encompasses both physical and spiritual dimensions.

had given
The act of giving (נָתַן, natan) in this context is significant as it represents a voluntary and willing offering to God. The Hebrew root conveys the idea of bestowing or granting something of value. This act of giving by the commanders is an expression of gratitude and recognition of God's sovereignty and protection. It serves as a model for believers, illustrating the importance of generosity and the willingness to offer back to God from the blessings He has provided. The historical context of this giving, following a victorious campaign, underscores the principle of acknowledging God's hand in success and dedicating the spoils of victory to Him.

as a contribution to the LORD
The term "contribution" (תְּרוּמָה, terumah) refers to an offering set apart for a sacred purpose. In the Hebrew tradition, a terumah was a portion of one's resources dedicated to God, often used for the maintenance of the Tabernacle or support of the priesthood. This contribution signifies an act of worship and devotion, recognizing God's ultimate ownership of all things. The phrase "to the LORD" (לַיהוָה, laYHWH) emphasizes the personal relationship between the Israelites and their God, highlighting the covenantal aspect of their faith. It serves as a reminder of the importance of dedicating the first and best of one's resources to God, acknowledging His provision and lordship over all aspects of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and through the wilderness. In this passage, Moses is responsible for receiving the gold offering from the commanders.

2. Eleazar
The son of Aaron and the high priest at this time. He assists Moses in bringing the gold into the Tent of Meeting, signifying his role in the spiritual leadership of Israel.

3. Commanders of Thousands and Hundreds
Military leaders of the Israelite army who contributed gold as an offering to the Lord. Their contribution signifies their acknowledgment of God's role in their victory.

4. Tent of Meeting
The sacred place where God met with Moses and the Israelites. It served as a central place of worship and a symbol of God's presence among His people.

5. Gold Offering
The gold collected from the spoils of war, given as an offering to God. This act of giving reflects gratitude and recognition of God's provision and protection.

Teaching Points

The Role of Leadership in Worship
Leaders are called to set an example in giving and worship. Moses and Eleazar's actions demonstrate the importance of leadership in guiding others in acts of worship.

The Significance of Sacrificial Giving
The gold offering represents a sacrifice from the spoils of war, reminding us that true worship often involves giving up something valuable to honor God.

Acknowledging God's Provision
The commanders' offering is a recognition of God's hand in their victory. We are reminded to acknowledge God's provision in our lives through acts of gratitude.

The Importance of Community Worship
The collective offering brought into the Tent of Meeting underscores the communal aspect of worship, where the community comes together to honor God.

Symbolism of the Tent of Meeting
As a place where God met with His people, the Tent of Meeting symbolizes God's desire for relationship and communication with His followers.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of giving by the commanders in Numbers 31:52 reflect their understanding of God's role in their victory?

2. In what ways can we, like the commanders, offer our resources to God as an act of worship today?

3. How does the leadership of Moses and Eleazar in this passage inspire us to lead others in worship and giving?

4. What parallels can you draw between the gold offering in Numbers 31:52 and the concept of cheerful giving in 2 Corinthians 9?

5. How can the communal aspect of worship, as seen in the Tent of Meeting, be applied to our modern-day church gatherings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25
The instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, where offerings of gold and other materials were first commanded by God. This connection highlights the continuity of giving as an act of worship.

1 Chronicles 29
David's collection of materials for the Temple, where leaders and people gave generously. This parallel emphasizes the importance of leadership in encouraging sacrificial giving.

2 Corinthians 9
Paul's teaching on cheerful giving, which aligns with the spirit of the commanders' offering in Numbers 31:52, showing that giving should be done willingly and joyfully.