Numbers 7:56

one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

Study Bible

one male goat
The phrase "one male goat" refers to the specific animal chosen for the sin offering. In Hebrew, the word for goat is "sa'ir," which often denotes a hairy or shaggy goat. The male goat was a common sacrificial animal in ancient Israelite worship, symbolizing strength and vitality. Historically, goats were abundant in the region and were used for various purposes, including milk, meat, and sacrificial offerings. The choice of a male goat for the sin offering underscores the importance of offering something valuable and significant to God, reflecting the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement.

for a sin offering
The term "sin offering" comes from the Hebrew word "chatta'ah," which means sin or sin offering. This type of offering was instituted by God as a means for the Israelites to atone for unintentional sins and to restore their relationship with Him. The sin offering was a crucial part of the sacrificial system, highlighting the holiness of God and the need for purification from sin. In the broader scriptural context, the sin offering points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who, as the Lamb of God, takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). This offering serves as a reminder of God's grace and mercy, providing a way for His people to be reconciled to Him despite their transgressions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is overseeing the dedication offerings for the altar.

2. The Altar
The central place of worship and sacrifice in the Tabernacle, being dedicated by the leaders of the tribes of Israel.

3. Tribe of Benjamin
The tribe whose leader, Abidan son of Gideoni, is making the offering on the twelfth day.

4. Abidan son of Gideoni
The leader of the tribe of Benjamin, who presents the offering.

5. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Dedication
The dedication of the altar signifies the importance of setting apart sacred spaces and times for worship. In our lives, we should dedicate time and resources to God, recognizing His sovereignty.

Unity in Worship
Each tribe, including Benjamin, participated in the offerings, symbolizing unity among the people of God. In the church today, unity in worship and purpose is essential for a strong community of faith.

Generosity in Giving
The offerings were generous and specific, reflecting the heart of giving. As believers, we are called to give generously and with purpose, trusting that God will use our offerings for His glory.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The sacrifices point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Understanding the Old Testament sacrifices helps us appreciate the depth of Christ's atonement for our sins.

Faithfulness in Leadership
Abidan's role as a leader making the offering highlights the responsibility of leaders to guide their people in worship and obedience to God. Christian leaders today are called to lead by example in faithfulness and devotion.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the dedication of the altar in Numbers 7:56 reflect the importance of setting apart sacred spaces in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we, as a church community, foster unity in worship similar to the unity shown by the tribes of Israel?

3. How does the concept of generous giving in Numbers 7 challenge us in our personal and communal financial stewardship?

4. What can we learn from the Old Testament sacrifices that enhances our understanding of Jesus' sacrifice as described in Hebrews 9?

5. How can leaders in the church today emulate the faithfulness and dedication shown by Abidan and other leaders in Numbers 7?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters describe the instructions for building the Tabernacle, which is the context for the offerings in Numbers 7.

Leviticus 1-7
These chapters outline the various offerings and sacrifices, providing background on the types of offerings being made in Numbers 7.

Hebrews 9
This chapter in the New Testament discusses the significance of the Tabernacle and the offerings in light of Christ's ultimate sacrifice.