Numbers 7:60

On the ninth day Abidan son of Gideoni, the leader of the Benjamites, drew near.

Study Bible

On the ninth day
This phrase marks a specific point in the sequence of offerings brought by the leaders of the tribes of Israel. The number nine in biblical numerology often signifies finality or completeness, as it is the last of the single-digit numbers. In the context of the offerings, it suggests a nearing completion of the dedication process for the altar. Historically, the dedication of the altar was a significant event, symbolizing the readiness of the Israelites to worship and serve God in the tabernacle.

Abidan son of Gideoni
The name "Abidan" means "my father is judge" in Hebrew, reflecting a heritage of leadership and authority. This name is fitting for a leader of a tribe, as it implies a role of guidance and decision-making. "Gideoni" means "hewer" or "one who cuts down," which could symbolize strength and the ability to clear obstacles. The mention of Abidan's lineage emphasizes the importance of family heritage and the continuation of God's promises through generations.

the leader of the Benjamites
The tribe of Benjamin holds a unique place among the tribes of Israel. Benjamin was the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, and his descendants were known for their warrior skills and bravery. The tribe's territory was strategically located, and they played a significant role in Israel's history. As a leader, Abidan would have been responsible for representing his tribe before God and the other tribes, ensuring that the Benjamites were aligned with God's covenant.

drew near
This phrase indicates an act of approaching God, which in the context of the offerings, signifies worship and dedication. The Hebrew root for "drew near" is often associated with the act of presenting offerings or sacrifices, a central aspect of Israelite worship. This act of drawing near is not just physical but also spiritual, symbolizing a heart posture of reverence and submission to God. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God's desire for His people to come close to Him in faith and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Abidan
Abidan is identified as the son of Gideoni and the leader of the tribe of Benjamin. His name means "my father is judge," which reflects a heritage of leadership and justice.

2. Gideoni
The father of Abidan, though not much is detailed about him, his mention signifies the importance of lineage and heritage in Israelite society.

3. The Benjamites
This refers to the tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribe is known for its warriors and later for producing Israel's first king, Saul.

4. The Ninth Day
This is part of a sequence of days during which the leaders of the tribes of Israel brought offerings for the dedication of the altar. Each day a different tribe presented its offerings.

5. The Dedication of the Altar
This event marks the consecration of the altar in the Tabernacle, a significant moment in Israel's worship and relationship with God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Leadership
Abidan's role as a leader of his tribe emphasizes the importance of godly leadership. Leaders are called to represent their people before God and to lead with integrity and faithfulness.

Heritage and Identity
The mention of Abidan as the son of Gideoni and leader of the Benjamites underscores the significance of heritage and identity in God's plan. Our spiritual heritage in Christ is vital to our identity as believers.

Dedication to God
The dedication of the altar is a reminder of the need for dedication in our own lives. Just as the altar was set apart for God's purposes, we are called to dedicate ourselves wholly to Him.

Unity in Worship
The sequence of offerings by each tribe illustrates the unity and diversity within the body of Israel. Similarly, the body of Christ is made up of diverse members, each contributing to the whole in worship and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. What qualities of leadership can we learn from Abidan's role as a leader of the Benjamites, and how can we apply these qualities in our own lives?

2. How does understanding our spiritual heritage in Christ influence our identity and purpose as believers?

3. In what ways can we dedicate ourselves more fully to God, following the example of the dedication of the altar?

4. How does the unity and diversity of the tribes of Israel in their offerings reflect the unity and diversity within the church today?

5. What lessons can we draw from the sequence of offerings in Numbers 7 about the importance of order and structure in our worship and service to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:27
This verse provides a prophetic blessing over Benjamin, describing him as a ravenous wolf. This connection highlights the tribe's future characteristics and their role in Israel's history.

1 Samuel 9:1-2
This passage introduces Saul, a Benjamite, as Israel's first king, showing the tribe's continued significance in Israel's leadership.

Hebrews 13:10
This New Testament verse speaks of an altar from which those who serve the tabernacle have no right to eat, drawing a spiritual parallel to the dedication of the altar in Numbers.