Numbers 7:17

and a peace offering of two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old. This was the offering of Nahshon son of Amminadab.

Study Bible

and two oxen
The offering of "two oxen" signifies strength and service. In ancient Israel, oxen were valuable assets, used for plowing fields and heavy labor. Their inclusion in offerings underscores the importance of dedicating our strength and resources to God. The Hebrew word for oxen, "par," often symbolizes power and sacrifice, reminding believers of the need to offer their best to the Lord.

five rams
The "five rams" represent leadership and atonement. Rams, being male sheep, were often used in sacrificial contexts to symbolize substitution and redemption. The number five can denote grace in biblical numerology, suggesting that these offerings are a means of receiving God's grace and favor. Historically, rams were significant in various sacrificial rites, emphasizing the importance of atonement and reconciliation with God.

five male goats
"Five male goats" were included as sin offerings, highlighting the need for purification and forgiveness. Goats were commonly used in sin offerings, as seen in Leviticus, symbolizing the removal of sin and guilt. The Hebrew word "sa'ir" for goat can also mean "hairy," reflecting the scapegoat ritual where the sins of the people were symbolically placed on a goat and sent into the wilderness, illustrating the complete removal of sin.

and five male lambs a year old
The "five male lambs a year old" signify innocence and purity. Lambs, especially those a year old, were considered pure and without blemish, making them ideal for offerings. This imagery points to Christ, the Lamb of God, who was without sin and offered Himself for humanity's redemption. The use of lambs in offerings underscores the call to live lives of purity and dedication to God.

to be used as a peace offering
The phrase "to be used as a peace offering" indicates a voluntary act of worship and thanksgiving. Peace offerings, or "shelamim" in Hebrew, were expressions of gratitude and fellowship with God. They symbolized reconciliation and the restoration of harmony between the offerer and the Divine. This offering reflects the believer's desire to maintain a peaceful relationship with God, acknowledging His provision and grace in their lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the offerings from the leaders of the tribes.

2. Israelite Leaders
The heads of the tribes who brought offerings for the dedication of the altar.

3. Tabernacle
The sacred tent where the Israelites worshiped God and where the offerings were brought.

4. Peace Offering
A type of sacrifice in the Old Testament that symbolized fellowship and thanksgiving to God.

5. Tribe of Judah
The tribe whose leader, Nahshon son of Amminadab, brought the offerings on the first day.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Peace Offering
The peace offering represents reconciliation and fellowship with God. It is a reminder of the peace we have through Christ, who is our ultimate peace offering.

Generosity in Worship
The leaders of Israel gave generously and willingly. Our worship should also be characterized by generosity, not just in material offerings but in our time, talents, and devotion.

Unity in Worship
Each tribe participated in the offerings, symbolizing unity among God's people. In the church today, unity in worship and purpose is essential for a healthy community.

Thanksgiving and Praise
The peace offering was a form of thanksgiving. We are called to live lives marked by gratitude, continually offering praise to God for His goodness and provision.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a peace offering in Numbers 7:17 relate to the peace we have through Jesus Christ?

2. In what ways can we practice generosity in our worship today, similar to the leaders of Israel?

3. How does the unity of the tribes in bringing offerings to the tabernacle inspire us to seek unity in our church communities?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced peace and reconciliation in your life. How can this experience enhance your worship and thanksgiving to God?

5. How can Romans 12:1's call to be a living sacrifice influence your daily walk with God and your interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3
Provides detailed instructions on peace offerings, emphasizing their role in expressing gratitude and maintaining fellowship with God.

Hebrews 13:15
Encourages believers to continually offer a sacrifice of praise, connecting the Old Testament peace offerings to New Testament worship.

Romans 12:1
Calls believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the dedication and offerings in the Old Testament.