Numbers 7:29

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

Study Bible

one young bull
The phrase "one young bull" refers to a specific type of sacrificial animal used in ancient Israelite worship. In Hebrew, the word for "bull" is "par," which often signifies strength and vitality. Bulls were considered valuable and were a symbol of wealth and power in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The offering of a young bull, therefore, represents a significant sacrifice, indicating the offerer's devotion and willingness to give something of great worth to God. This act of offering a young bull as a burnt offering underscores the importance of giving our best to God, reflecting a heart of worship and submission.

one ram
The "ram" in Hebrew is "ayil," which is often associated with leadership and authority. Rams were used in various sacrificial rites and were considered a symbol of strength and determination. The inclusion of a ram in the offering highlights the need for steadfastness and commitment in one's relationship with God. Historically, rams were also used in covenant-making ceremonies, symbolizing the binding agreement between God and His people. This offering serves as a reminder of the covenantal relationship and the responsibilities that come with it.

one male lamb a year old
The "male lamb a year old" is a significant element in the sacrificial system. In Hebrew, "kebes" refers to a young sheep, and the specification of "a year old" indicates that the lamb is in its prime, symbolizing innocence and purity. The lamb is a recurring symbol throughout Scripture, ultimately pointing to Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). This offering foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, emphasizing the themes of redemption and atonement.

for a burnt offering
The term "burnt offering" in Hebrew is "olah," which means "that which goes up" or "ascent," referring to the smoke that rises to heaven. A burnt offering was entirely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication and surrender to God. It was an act of worship that expressed the offerer's desire for reconciliation and fellowship with the Lord. The burnt offering signifies the complete devotion and consecration of one's life to God, serving as a powerful reminder of the call to live a life wholly dedicated to Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions for the offerings from God.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were commanded to bring offerings as part of their worship and dedication to the Lord.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence, where the offerings were brought.

4. Tribe of Issachar
The specific tribe mentioned in the context of Numbers 7, which brought these offerings on the second day of the dedication of the altar.

5. Burnt Offering
A type of sacrifice in which the entire offering was consumed by fire, symbolizing complete dedication to God.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The burnt offering represents total surrender and dedication to God. As believers, we are called to offer our lives fully to Him.

Obedience in Worship
The Israelites' adherence to God's instructions for offerings highlights the importance of obedience in our worship practices today.

Community and Worship
The collective participation of the tribes in bringing offerings underscores the communal aspect of worship, reminding us of the importance of gathering together as a body of believers.

Foreshadowing of Christ
The sacrificial system points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, encouraging us to reflect on His atoning work and its implications for our lives.

Generosity and Giving
The offerings brought by the Israelites were valuable, teaching us about the importance of giving our best to God in all aspects of life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a burnt offering in Numbers 7:29 relate to the idea of being a "living sacrifice" as described in Romans 12:1?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate complete dedication to God in our daily lives, similar to the symbolism of the burnt offering?

3. How does the communal aspect of the offerings in Numbers 7 encourage us to participate in corporate worship and fellowship today?

4. What can we learn from the obedience of the Israelites in bringing their offerings, and how can this be applied to our own worship practices?

5. How does understanding the sacrificial system in the Old Testament enhance our appreciation of Christ's sacrifice as described in Hebrews 10?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 1
Provides detailed instructions on how burnt offerings were to be conducted, emphasizing the importance of sacrifice and atonement.

Hebrews 10
Discusses the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which fulfills and surpasses the Old Testament sacrificial system.

Romans 12:1
Encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the complete dedication symbolized by the burnt offerings.