Numbers 7:47

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

Study Bible

and for the sacrifice of peace offerings
The term "peace offerings" comes from the Hebrew word "שְׁלָמִים" (shelamim), which is derived from "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), meaning peace, completeness, or welfare. In the context of ancient Israel, peace offerings were a way to express gratitude and fellowship with God. They symbolized reconciliation and the restoration of harmony between the offerer and the Divine. This offering was a voluntary act, reflecting the worshiper's desire to maintain a peaceful relationship with God and the community.

two oxen
Oxen were considered valuable assets in ancient agrarian societies, used for plowing fields and as a source of meat. Offering two oxen signified a significant sacrifice, demonstrating the offerer's devotion and willingness to give from their wealth. The use of oxen in sacrifices also points to their role as symbols of strength and service, representing the offerer's dedication to serving God with their resources.

five rams
Rams, male sheep, were often used in sacrificial offerings due to their value and significance. The number five in biblical numerology is sometimes associated with grace. Offering five rams could symbolize the abundance of God's grace and the offerer's acknowledgment of this grace in their life. Rams also represent leadership and authority, reflecting the offerer's submission to God's sovereignty.

five male goats
Goats were common sacrificial animals in Israelite worship. The male goat, or "שָׂעִיר" (sa'ir), was often used in sin offerings, symbolizing the removal of sin and impurity. In this context, the offering of five male goats as part of the peace offerings could signify the offerer's desire for purification and a clean relationship with God. The number five again emphasizes the grace and mercy of God in forgiving sins.

and five male lambs a year old
Lambs, especially those a year old, were considered pure and without blemish, making them suitable for offerings. The lamb is a powerful symbol of innocence and sacrifice, prefiguring the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God. Offering five male lambs highlights the offerer's recognition of God's provision and the purity required in worship. The repetition of the number five underscores the theme of grace and divine favor.

This was the offering of Eliasaph son of Deuel
Eliasaph, meaning "God has added," was a leader of the tribe of Gad. His offering represents not only his personal devotion but also the collective worship and commitment of his tribe. The mention of his father, Deuel, meaning "knowledge of God," suggests a legacy of faith and understanding passed down through generations. This highlights the importance of family and community in maintaining a covenant relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Eliasaph son of Deuel
Eliasaph was a leader of the tribe of Gad, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His name means "God has added," reflecting the blessings and increase from God.

2. Tribe of Gad
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Gad, the seventh son of Jacob and Zilpah. The tribe was known for its warriors and settled on the east side of the Jordan River.

3. Peace Offerings
These were offerings made to express gratitude and fellowship with God. They symbolized peace and reconciliation between the offerer and God.

4. Tabernacle Dedication
The context of this verse is the dedication of the Tabernacle, where each tribe brought offerings over twelve days to celebrate and consecrate the Tabernacle.

5. Sacrificial Animals
The specific animals mentioned (oxen, rams, goats, lambs) were part of the sacrificial system, each with its symbolic meaning and purpose in worship and atonement.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Dedication
Just as the Israelites dedicated the Tabernacle with offerings, we are called to dedicate our lives and resources to God’s service.

Symbolism of Peace Offerings
Peace offerings symbolize reconciliation and gratitude. In our lives, we should seek to live in peace with God and others, expressing gratitude for His blessings.

Community Worship
The collective offerings of the tribes highlight the importance of community in worship. We are encouraged to participate in communal worship and support one another in faith.

Generosity in Giving
The offerings were generous and costly, reminding us to give sacrificially and joyfully to God’s work, trusting in His provision.

Christ as Our Peace Offering
Jesus Christ is the ultimate peace offering, reconciling us to God. Our faith in Him brings us peace and calls us to live in harmony with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the offering of Eliasaph son of Deuel teach us about the role of leadership in worship and dedication to God?

2. How can the concept of peace offerings in the Old Testament enhance our understanding of peace and reconciliation in our relationships today?

3. In what ways can we dedicate our resources and talents to God’s service, similar to the offerings made by the tribes of Israel?

4. How does the communal aspect of the Tabernacle dedication inform our approach to worship and fellowship within the church?

5. Reflect on how Jesus Christ fulfills the role of the peace offering. How does this understanding impact your daily walk with God and interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Hebrews 13:15
This verse speaks of offering a "sacrifice of praise," connecting the Old Testament sacrificial system to New Testament worship 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.