Numbers 7:24

On the third day Eliab son of Helon, the leader of the Zebulunites, drew near.

Study Bible

On the third day
The phrase "on the third day" is significant throughout Scripture, often symbolizing divine intervention, completion, or a new beginning. In the Hebrew context, the number three can denote completeness or stability, as seen in the resurrection of Jesus on the third day, which signifies victory and fulfillment of God's promises. Here, it marks the continuation of the offerings by the leaders of Israel, emphasizing the orderly and divinely orchestrated nature of worship and dedication.

Eliab son of Helon
Eliab, whose name means "My God is Father," is a representative of the tribe of Zebulun. His lineage, "son of Helon," provides a connection to his heritage and the promises given to the tribes of Israel. In the biblical narrative, names often carry significant meaning, reflecting character or destiny. Eliab's participation in this offering underscores the communal and familial aspects of worship, where each tribe and family plays a role in the collective faith journey of Israel.

the leader of the Zebulunites
As the leader, Eliab holds a position of responsibility and honor among the Zebulunites. The tribe of Zebulun, named after the sixth son of Jacob and Leah, is historically associated with maritime trade and prosperity, as prophesied in Genesis 49:13. Eliab's leadership role highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding the people in worship and obedience to God's commands. It also reflects the unity and diversity within the nation of Israel, where each tribe contributes uniquely to the whole.

drew near
This phrase indicates an act of approaching God, which in the Hebrew context involves reverence, humility, and obedience. Drawing near to God is a central theme in Scripture, symbolizing a desire for communion and relationship with the Divine. In the context of Numbers 7, it signifies the leaders' willingness to present offerings and participate in the dedication of the altar, demonstrating their commitment to God's covenant and their role in the spiritual life of the nation. This act of drawing near is a powerful reminder of the privilege and responsibility of approaching God with a pure heart and sincere devotion.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Eliab son of Helon
Eliab is identified as the leader of the tribe of Zebulun. His role in this passage is significant as he represents his tribe in the offerings for the dedication of the altar.

2. Zebulunites
This refers to the descendants of Zebulun, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe of Zebulun was known for its strategic location and its role in trade and commerce.

3. The Third Day
This marks the specific day in the sequence of offerings made by the leaders of the tribes of Israel for the dedication of the altar. Each day, a different tribe's leader presented offerings.

4. Dedication of the Altar
This event is part of the larger ceremony described in Numbers 7, where the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel brought offerings for the dedication of the altar in the Tabernacle.

5. Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. It was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

Teaching Points

Leadership and Responsibility
Eliab's role as a leader emphasizes the importance of leadership in spiritual matters. Leaders are called to represent their people before God and to lead by example in worship and dedication.

The Significance of Order and Timing
The structured sequence of offerings over twelve days underscores the importance of order and timing in worship. Each tribe had its appointed time, reflecting God's orderly nature.

Community Participation in Worship
The collective participation of all tribes in the dedication of the altar highlights the communal aspect of worship. Every tribe had a role, showing that worship is a shared responsibility.

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar represents a place of sacrifice and meeting with God. It is a reminder of the need for atonement and the centrality of God's presence in the life of His people.

Faithfulness in Small Details
The detailed account of each tribe's offering teaches the value of faithfulness in even the smallest details of our spiritual lives. God notices and values our dedication.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Eliab's role as a leader in the context of spiritual leadership today?

2. How does the structured sequence of offerings in Numbers 7 reflect God's character, and how can we apply this understanding to our worship practices?

3. In what ways does the communal participation in the dedication of the altar inform our understanding of corporate worship in the church?

4. How does the symbolism of the altar in the Old Testament connect to the New Testament understanding of Christ's sacrifice?

5. Reflect on a time when you were faithful in a small detail of your spiritual life. How did that experience impact your relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31:2-6
This passage describes the craftsmanship and dedication involved in constructing the Tabernacle, highlighting the importance of the place where Eliab and others brought their offerings.

Leviticus 9:1-24
This chapter details the initial consecration of the Tabernacle and the priests, providing context for the ongoing dedication ceremonies in Numbers 7.

1 Chronicles 12:33
This verse mentions the tribe of Zebulun as skilled warriors, showing their importance and contribution to the nation of Israel.