Numbers 7:55

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
The phrase "his offering" refers to the specific contribution made by a leader of one of the tribes of Israel during the dedication of the altar. In the Hebrew context, the word for offering, "קָרְבָּן" (korban), signifies something brought near to God, symbolizing the worshiper's desire to draw closer to the divine. This act of giving is not merely a ritual but a profound expression of devotion and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty.

one young bull
The "young bull" is a significant sacrificial animal in the Hebrew tradition, often symbolizing strength and service. In ancient Israel, bulls were valuable assets, representing wealth and power. Offering a young bull as a burnt offering underscores the leader's willingness to give something of great value to God, demonstrating total surrender and dedication.

one ram
The "ram" is another important sacrificial animal, often associated with substitutionary atonement. In the context of the Old Testament, the ram is a reminder of the account of Abraham and Isaac, where God provided a ram as a substitute sacrifice. This offering signifies obedience and trust in God's provision and mercy.

one male lamb a year old
The "male lamb a year old" is a symbol of innocence and purity. In the sacrificial system, a lamb without blemish was required, pointing to the need for a perfect offering. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. The age of the lamb, being one year old, indicates its prime condition, emphasizing the quality and wholeheartedness of the offering.

for a burnt offering
The "burnt offering" is a type of sacrifice that is wholly consumed by fire, symbolizing complete consecration to God. In Hebrew, the term "עֹלָה" (olah) means "that which goes up," referring to the smoke ascending to heaven. This offering represents the worshiper's total commitment and surrender to God's will, seeking to honor Him with their entire being. The burnt offering is a powerful reminder of the call to live a life fully dedicated to God, holding nothing back.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abidan
He was the leader of the tribe of Benjamin during the time of the wilderness wanderings. His name means "my father is judge," reflecting a heritage of leadership and responsibility.

2. Gideoni
The father of Abidan, mentioned here to establish lineage and tribal affiliation, which was important for maintaining order and identity among the Israelites.

3. Tribe of Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its warriors and later for being the tribe of King Saul and the Apostle Paul.

4. Peace Offerings
A type of sacrifice in the Old Testament that symbolized fellowship and thanksgiving to God. It was a voluntary act of worship, expressing gratitude and a desire for peace with God.

5. Wilderness Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness, where offerings and sacrifices were made.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Thanksgiving
Just as the peace offerings were a way for the Israelites to express gratitude, we are called to live lives marked by thanksgiving, recognizing God's provision and grace in our lives.

Community and Fellowship
The peace offerings were shared among the people, highlighting the importance of community in worship. We are encouraged to foster fellowship and unity within the body of Christ.

Sacrificial Giving
Abidan's offering was generous and costly, reminding us that our worship should involve giving our best to God, whether it be our time, resources, or talents.

Heritage and Identity
Abidan's lineage is noted, underscoring the importance of understanding our spiritual heritage and identity in Christ, which shapes our purpose and mission.

Peace with God
The peace offerings symbolized reconciliation and peace with God. Through Christ, we have ultimate peace and are called to be peacemakers in our relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of peace offerings in Numbers 7:55 relate to the way we express gratitude to God today?

2. In what ways can we foster a sense of community and fellowship in our local church, similar to the communal aspect of the peace offerings?

3. Reflect on a time when you gave sacrificially. How did it impact your relationship with God and others?

4. How does understanding our spiritual heritage and identity in Christ influence our daily walk and decisions?

5. What practical steps can we take to be peacemakers in our families, workplaces, and communities, reflecting the peace we have with God through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 3
Provides detailed instructions on peace offerings, emphasizing the importance of offering the best to God and the communal aspect of sharing the meal.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, paralleling the peace offerings as acts of gratitude and trust in God's provision.

Hebrews 13:15-16
Speaks of offering a sacrifice of praise and doing good, which aligns with the spirit of the peace offerings as expressions of worship and community.