Numbers 7:18

On the second day Nethanel son of Zuar, the leader of Issachar, drew near.

Study Bible

On the second day
This phrase marks the continuation of a significant event, the dedication of the altar, which began on the first day. The sequential nature of the offerings over twelve days underscores the order and structure that God ordained for the Israelites. Each tribe had its appointed time, reflecting the divine order and the importance of each tribe in the community of Israel. The "second day" signifies the ongoing commitment and participation of the tribes in the worship and service to God, emphasizing that worship is a continuous, communal act.

Nethanel son of Zuar
Nethanel, whose name means "God has given," is a representative of the tribe of Issachar. His lineage, "son of Zuar," is significant as it connects him to his tribal heritage and identity. In the Hebrew tradition, names and genealogies are crucial, often reflecting one's character or destiny. Nethanel's role as a leader highlights the importance of godly leadership and the responsibility of guiding one's people in faithfulness to God's commands.

the leader of Issachar
Issachar was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its wisdom and understanding of the times (1 Chronicles 12:32). The tribe's leader, Nethanel, is entrusted with the honor of presenting the offering on behalf of his people. This role underscores the importance of leadership in spiritual matters and the responsibility leaders have to represent their people before God. The tribe of Issachar's reputation for discernment and wisdom is reflected in their leader's actions, serving as a model for godly leadership.

drew near
This phrase indicates an act of approaching God, which in the context of the offerings, is a sacred and reverent action. The Hebrew root for "drew near" often connotes coming into the presence of God, suggesting both physical proximity and spiritual readiness. It reflects the heart posture required when approaching the divine—one of humility, reverence, and obedience. This act of drawing near is a reminder of the privilege and responsibility of coming before God, emphasizing the need for purity and devotion in worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nethanel son of Zuar
Nethanel is identified as the leader of the tribe of Issachar. His role in this passage is significant as he represents his tribe in the offerings for the dedication of the altar.

2. Issachar
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Issachar, the fifth son of Jacob and Leah. The tribe is known for its wisdom and understanding of the times.

3. The Dedication of the Altar
This event involves the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel bringing offerings for the dedication of the altar in the Tabernacle. It is a significant moment of communal worship and dedication to God.

Teaching Points

Leadership and Responsibility
Nethanel's role as a leader underscores the importance of godly leadership and the responsibility leaders have in guiding their people in worship and dedication to God.

Communal Worship
The dedication of the altar is a communal event, reminding us of the importance of coming together as a community of believers to worship and dedicate ourselves to God's service.

Understanding the Times
Like the tribe of Issachar, believers are called to understand the times and discern God's will, applying wisdom and insight to our lives and decisions.

Dedication to God
The act of bringing offerings for the altar's dedication symbolizes our call to dedicate our lives and resources to God, recognizing His sovereignty and provision.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Nethanel's role as a leader in the dedication of the altar, and how can we apply these lessons to our own leadership roles within our communities?

2. How does the communal aspect of the altar's dedication in Numbers 7:18 reflect the importance of corporate worship in the church today?

3. In what ways can we, like the tribe of Issachar, seek to understand the times and discern God's will in our current context?

4. How does the dedication of the altar in the Old Testament relate to the New Testament concept of offering ourselves as living sacrifices to God?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our lives and resources are dedicated to God, reflecting the commitment seen in the offerings of the tribes of Israel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:14-15
This passage provides insight into the character and future of the tribe of Issachar, which is relevant to understanding Nethanel's role and the tribe's participation in the dedication.

1 Chronicles 12:32
This verse highlights the men of Issachar as those who understood the times and knew what Israel should do, emphasizing the tribe's wisdom and discernment.

Exodus 40:9-10
These verses describe the anointing and consecration of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, providing context for the significance of the altar's dedication.