Numbers 7:43

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

His offering
This phrase refers to the personal and voluntary contribution made by a leader of Israel. In the context of Numbers 7, each tribal leader presents an offering to the Lord as part of the dedication of the altar. The Hebrew word for "offering" is "קָרְבָּן" (korban), which signifies something brought near to God. This act of giving is a demonstration of devotion and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and provision.

one silver platter
The silver platter, or "כְּעָרָה" (ke'arah) in Hebrew, is a significant item in the offering. Silver, a precious metal, symbolizes purity and redemption in biblical symbolism. The use of silver in the tabernacle offerings underscores the value and importance of the dedication ceremony. Historically, silver was a common medium of exchange and a sign of wealth, indicating the leaders' willingness to give generously to God.

weighing a hundred and thirty shekels
The specific weight of the silver platter, "a hundred and thirty shekels," highlights the precision and care in the offerings. The shekel was a standard unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel. This precise measurement reflects the order and structure God desires in worship and offerings, emphasizing that God is a God of order and not chaos.

and one silver bowl of seventy shekels
The silver bowl, or "מִזְרָק" (mizrak), also made of silver, complements the platter. The bowl's weight of seventy shekels further illustrates the detailed instructions given by God for worship. The number seventy often represents completeness or perfection in the Bible, suggesting that the offering is whole and acceptable to God.

according to the sanctuary shekel
This phrase indicates that the weight of the offerings was measured by the sanctuary shekel, a standard set by the tabernacle. The sanctuary shekel was slightly heavier than the common shekel, ensuring that the offerings met a higher standard. This reflects the principle that what is offered to God should be of the highest quality and integrity.

both of them full of fine flour mixed with oil
The fine flour and oil mixture is a key component of the grain offering, or "מִנְחָה" (minchah). Fine flour represents the best of the harvest, and oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit and anointing. Together, they signify a life dedicated to God, filled with the Spirit and producing good works. This offering is a fragrant aroma to the Lord, symbolizing the worshiper's desire to honor God with their best.

for a grain offering
The grain offering, part of the Levitical sacrificial system, was a voluntary act of worship and thanksgiving. It was an expression of gratitude for God's provision and a commitment to live a life pleasing to Him. The grain offering, unlike animal sacrifices, was bloodless, symbolizing peace and fellowship with God. It serves as a reminder of the believer's call to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nahshon
The leader of the tribe of Judah, who presented the offering described in this verse. Nahshon is significant as he is listed in the genealogy of Jesus in the New Testament.

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

3. Tabernacle Dedication
The context of this verse is the dedication of the Tabernacle, where each tribe brought offerings over twelve days.

4. Sanctuary Shekel
A unit of weight used in the sanctuary, indicating the standard by which offerings were measured.

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 highlights 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 offerings brought by each tribe were significant in value, demonstrating the principle of sacrificial giving. We are called to give generously, reflecting our trust in God's provision.

Unity Among God's People
Each tribe participated in the dedication of the Tabernacle, symbolizing unity and collective worship. This unity is essential for the body of Christ today.

Legacy and Lineage
Nahshon's role in the offerings and his place in Jesus' genealogy remind us of the importance of faithfulness across generations. Our actions today can impact future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the detailed description of the offerings in Numbers 7 teach us about the nature of worship and giving in our own lives?

2. How does the concept of the "sanctuary shekel" relate to the idea of having a standard in our spiritual lives?

3. In what ways can the symbolism of the grain offering (fine flour mixed with oil) be applied to our daily walk with God?

4. How does the participation of each tribe in the Tabernacle dedication reflect the importance of unity in the church today?

5. Considering Nahshon's place in the genealogy of Jesus, how can we ensure that our faithfulness leaves a positive legacy for future generations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters describe the instructions for building the Tabernacle and the types of offerings, providing background for the events in Numbers 7.

Leviticus 2
This chapter details the grain offering, explaining its significance and how it is to be prepared and presented.

Matthew 1
The genealogy of Jesus includes Nahshon, connecting the Old Testament lineage to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ.