Numbers 7:35

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

Study Bible

and for the peace offering
The Hebrew term for "peace offering" is "שֶׁלֶם" (shelem), which is derived from the root "שָׁלַם" (shalom), meaning peace, completeness, or welfare. The peace offering was a voluntary sacrifice expressing thanksgiving and fellowship with God. It symbolized reconciliation and communion, reflecting the believer's restored relationship with the Lord. In the context of Numbers, it underscores the communal aspect of worship and the importance of maintaining harmony within the Israelite community.

two oxen
Oxen were valuable animals in ancient Israel, used for plowing and as beasts of burden. Offering two oxen signified a significant sacrifice, indicating the offerer's devotion and gratitude. The oxen's strength and utility symbolize the believer's dedication to serving God with their resources and abilities.

five rams
Rams were often used in sacrificial offerings, symbolizing leadership and strength. The number five in biblical numerology can represent grace or God's goodness. Offering five rams could signify the abundance of God's grace and the offerer's acknowledgment of His provision and leadership in their lives.

five male goats
Goats were commonly used in sin offerings, representing the removal of sin and impurity. The inclusion of five male goats in the peace offering highlights the comprehensive nature of the sacrifice, addressing both thanksgiving and atonement. It reflects the believer's desire for purity and holiness in their relationship with God.

and five male lambs a year old
Lambs, especially those a year old, were considered pure and without blemish, making them suitable for sacrifice. The lamb is a symbol of innocence and sacrifice, pointing forward to Christ, the Lamb of God. Offering five male lambs emphasizes the completeness and perfection of the sacrifice, foreshadowing the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus for the sins of humanity.

This was the offering of Elizur son of Shedeur
Elizur, meaning "God is my rock," was the leader of the tribe of Reuben. His offering represents the collective worship and dedication of his tribe. The mention of his lineage, "son of Shedeur," underscores the importance of heritage and identity in the Israelite community. It serves as a reminder of the continuity of faith and the responsibility of each generation to uphold and pass on their devotion to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elizur son of Shedeur
Elizur was the leader of the tribe of Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob. His offering is part of the dedication of the altar by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel.

2. Tribe of Reuben
The tribe of Reuben was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah.

3. Peace Offerings
These offerings were a type of sacrifice in the Old Testament that symbolized fellowship and peace with God. They were voluntary and expressed gratitude and communion with the Lord.

4. Dedication of the Altar
This event involved the leaders of each tribe bringing offerings over twelve days for the dedication of the altar in the Tabernacle, signifying the unity and commitment of the tribes to God.

5. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence of God among the Israelites, where sacrifices and offerings were made.

Teaching Points

Understanding Sacrificial Worship
The peace offerings in Numbers 7:35 remind us of the importance of sacrificial worship and gratitude in our relationship with God. Just as the Israelites offered sacrifices to express peace and fellowship, we are called to offer our lives as living sacrifices.

Unity in Worship
The collective offerings by the leaders of the tribes symbolize unity in worship. In the body of Christ, unity is essential as we come together to worship and serve God.

Gratitude and Fellowship
The peace offerings were a voluntary expression of gratitude. In our lives, we should cultivate a heart of thankfulness and seek to maintain fellowship with God and others.

Symbolism of Peace
The peace offerings symbolize reconciliation and peace with God. Through Christ, we have peace with God, and we are called to be peacemakers in our communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the offering of Elizur son of Shedeur teach us about the importance of leadership in worship and dedication to God?

2. How can the concept of peace offerings in the Old Testament be applied to our spiritual lives today?

3. In what ways can we, as a church community, demonstrate unity in our worship and service to God?

4. How does the New Testament concept of living sacrifices (Romans 12:1) relate to the peace offerings described in Numbers 7:35?

5. What practical steps can we take to cultivate a heart of gratitude and maintain fellowship with God and others in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3
This chapter provides detailed instructions on peace offerings, highlighting their purpose and significance in maintaining a relationship with God.

Hebrews 13:15
This verse speaks of offering a sacrifice of praise, connecting the Old Testament practice of sacrifices with the New Testament call to offer spiritual sacrifices through Jesus Christ.

Romans 12:1
Paul urges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, drawing a parallel to the dedication and offerings made in the Old Testament.