Numbers 7:31

His offering was one silver platter weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel and filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering;

Study Bible

and his offering
The word "offering" in Hebrew is "קָרְבָּן" (korban), which signifies something brought near to God. This reflects the heart of worship, where the act of giving is not merely a ritual but a means of drawing closer to the Divine. In the context of Numbers, offerings were a tangible expression of devotion and obedience, symbolizing the Israelites' desire to maintain a covenant relationship with God.

one silver dish
The "silver dish" (Hebrew: "קְעָרָה" - qe'arah) represents a vessel of value and purity. Silver, often associated with redemption in the Bible, underscores the preciousness of the offering. Archaeological findings have shown that such dishes were common in ancient Near Eastern cultures, used in both domestic and religious settings, highlighting the integration of daily life with spiritual practice.

weighing 130 shekels
The "shekel" was a standard unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel. The specific weight of 130 shekels indicates a significant offering, reflecting the giver's generosity and the importance of the occasion. This precise measurement underscores the order and structure within the Israelite community, as well as the importance of giving according to one's means.

one silver bowl
The "silver bowl" (Hebrew: "מִזְרָק" - mizraq) is another vessel used in offerings, often associated with the pouring out of libations. The use of silver again emphasizes the value and purity of the offering. Historically, bowls were used in various ceremonial contexts, symbolizing the outpouring of one's heart and resources to God.

weighing 70 shekels
The weight of "70 shekels" for the bowl, like the dish, signifies a substantial contribution. The number 70 in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection, suggesting that the offering was whole and sufficient in the eyes of God.

according to the sanctuary shekel
The "sanctuary shekel" was a specific standard used in the tabernacle, ensuring uniformity and fairness in offerings. This standardization reflects the holiness and orderliness required in worship, reminding the Israelites that their offerings were to meet divine standards, not merely human expectations.

both filled with fine flour
"Fine flour" (Hebrew: "סֹלֶת" - solet) was a high-quality ingredient, representing the best of what one could offer. In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, flour was a staple, and offering the finest quality signified giving God the best of one's resources, a principle that resonates with the call to offer our best in worship today.

mixed with oil
Oil, often symbolizing the Holy Spirit and anointing, was mixed with the flour to create a pleasing aroma when offered. This mixture signifies the blending of human effort (flour) with divine presence (oil), illustrating the partnership between God and His people in the act of worship.

for a grain offering
The "grain offering" (Hebrew: "מִנְחָה" - minchah) was a voluntary act of worship, expressing gratitude and dedication to God. It was a non-blood offering, symbolizing peace and fellowship with God. This offering points to the believer's call to live a life of thanksgiving and consecration, acknowledging God's provision and sovereignty.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nashon
The leader of the tribe of Judah, who brought the offering described in this verse. Nashon is significant as he is an ancestor of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ.

2. Tribe of Judah
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its leadership role among the tribes and its association with kingship and the lineage of Jesus.

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God during their journey through the wilderness. The offerings were made for the dedication of the altar.

4. Sanctuary Shekel
A unit of weight used in the tabernacle, ensuring that offerings met a standard measure.

5. Grain Offering
A type of offering made to God, consisting of fine flour mixed with oil, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order and Structure in Worship
The detailed description of offerings in Numbers 7 emphasizes the importance of order and structure in worship. God values intentionality and precision in how we approach Him.

Symbolism of the Grain Offering
The grain offering, made of fine flour and oil, symbolizes dedication and thanksgiving. It reminds us to offer our best to God, acknowledging His provision and grace.

Generosity and Sacrifice
The weight and value of the offerings reflect the generosity and sacrifice required in worship. We are called to give sacrificially, not out of obligation, but out of love and gratitude.

Continuity of God's Plan
The mention of Nashon and the tribe of Judah connects to the broader account of God's redemptive plan, culminating in Jesus Christ. It reminds us of God's faithfulness across generations.

Community and Collective Worship
The offerings were part of a collective dedication of the altar, highlighting the importance of community in worship. We are encouraged to participate in communal acts of worship and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed description of offerings in Numbers 7:31 reflect the importance of order and structure in our own worship practices today?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the grain offering (fine flour mixed with oil) inspire us to offer our best to God in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of sacrificial giving, as seen in the offerings of Numbers 7, challenge our current understanding of generosity?

4. What significance does the inclusion of Nashon and the tribe of Judah in this passage have for understanding the continuity of God's plan through the Bible?

5. How can we foster a sense of community and collective worship in our own church or fellowship group, drawing inspiration from the communal dedication of the altar in Numbers 7?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-30
These chapters describe the construction and furnishing of the Tabernacle, providing context for the offerings made in Numbers 7.

Leviticus 2
This chapter outlines the regulations for grain offerings, explaining their significance and how they are to be prepared and presented.

Matthew 1
The genealogy of Jesus, which includes Nashon, highlighting the continuity of God's plan through the tribe of Judah.