Numbers 7:3

They brought as their offering before the LORD six covered carts and twelve oxen--an ox from each leader and a cart from every two leaders--and presented them before the tabernacle.

Study Bible

They brought their offerings
This phrase marks the beginning of a significant act of worship and dedication by the leaders of Israel. The Hebrew root for "brought" is "נָשָׂא" (nasa), which means to lift, carry, or bear. This implies a sense of reverence and intentionality in their actions. The leaders are not merely presenting gifts; they are lifting them up to the Lord, symbolizing their submission and devotion. Historically, offerings were a central part of Israelite worship, serving as a tangible expression of faith and obedience to God.

before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" indicates the sacredness of the act. The Hebrew word for "before" is "לִפְנֵי" (lifnei), which can also mean "in the presence of." This underscores the belief that God is omnipresent and intimately involved in the lives of His people. Offering gifts "before the LORD" signifies that these acts are not for human recognition but are directed towards God Himself, acknowledging His sovereignty and holiness.

six covered carts
The mention of "six covered carts" is significant in understanding the logistics and the communal effort involved in the offerings. The Hebrew word for "carts" is "עֲגָלוֹת" (agalot), which were used for transporting goods. The fact that they are "covered" suggests protection and care for the offerings, indicating the value and importance of what is being transported. This detail highlights the organized and thoughtful approach of the Israelites in their service to God.

and twelve oxen
The "twelve oxen" symbolize strength and service, as oxen were essential for agricultural work and transportation in ancient times. The number twelve is significant in the Bible, often representing completeness and the twelve tribes of Israel. This suggests that the offerings were a collective effort of the entire nation, each tribe contributing to the worship and service of God. The use of oxen also reflects the sacrificial system, where animals were offered to atone for sin and express gratitude to God.

an ox from each leader and a cart from every two leaders
This distribution of offerings demonstrates a sense of unity and shared responsibility among the leaders of Israel. Each leader contributes an ox, while every two leaders share a cart, indicating cooperation and partnership. The Hebrew word for "leader" is "נָשִׂיא" (nasi), which means prince or chief, highlighting their role as representatives of their tribes. This structure ensures that the burden of giving is shared, reflecting the communal nature of worship and the importance of each tribe's participation in the service of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Leaders of Israel
These were the heads of the tribes of Israel who brought offerings to the LORD. They played a significant role in representing their tribes and ensuring that the needs of the tabernacle were met.

2. The Tabernacle
This was the portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites. It was central to their worship and community life.

3. The Offerings
The leaders brought six covered carts and twelve oxen as offerings. These were practical gifts intended to assist in the transportation of the tabernacle and its furnishings.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Community Support
The leaders' offerings demonstrate the necessity of communal involvement in supporting the work of God. Each tribe contributed, showing unity and shared responsibility.

Generosity in Giving
The leaders gave willingly and generously, setting an example for us to follow in our own giving to the church and God's work.

Practicality in Offerings
The offerings were not just symbolic but practical, meeting the specific needs of the tabernacle. This teaches us to consider how our contributions can effectively support God's work.

Leadership and Responsibility
The leaders took initiative in providing for the tabernacle, reminding us of the responsibility leaders have in guiding and supporting the spiritual community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of the leaders in Numbers 7:3 challenge us in our own giving to the church or community?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our contributions to God's work are both generous and practical?

3. How does the concept of community support in Numbers 7:3 relate to the New Testament teachings on the body of Christ?

4. What responsibilities do leaders have in setting an example of generosity and support for God's work?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of willingness and cheerfulness in our giving, as encouraged in 2 Corinthians 9:7?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters detail the instructions for building the tabernacle, highlighting its importance and the need for community support in its construction and maintenance.

1 Chronicles 29
This passage describes how the leaders of Israel contributed generously to the building of the temple, showing a parallel in the willingness to support God's dwelling place.

2 Corinthians 9:7
This verse emphasizes the importance of giving willingly and cheerfully, which can be seen in the leaders' offerings in Numbers 7.