Numbers 7:67

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 individual contribution made by a leader of the tribes of Israel during the dedication of the altar. In Hebrew, the word for offering is "קָרְבָּן" (korban), which signifies something brought near to God. This reflects the personal devotion and commitment of the leader, symbolizing a heart willing to draw near to the Lord in worship and obedience.

one silver dish
The "silver dish" is a significant item in the offering, symbolizing wealth and purity. Silver, in biblical times, was a precious metal often associated with redemption and value. The Hebrew word for dish, "קְעָרָה" (ke'arah), suggests a vessel used for sacred purposes, indicating that the offering is not just material but holds spiritual significance.

weighing a hundred and thirty shekels
The specific weight of "a hundred and thirty shekels" underscores the precision and intentionality in the offering. The shekel, "שֶׁקֶל" (shekel), was a standard unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel. This precise measurement reflects the importance of giving to God with exactness and integrity, ensuring that offerings are made with a sincere heart.

one silver bowl of seventy shekels
The "silver bowl" complements the dish, with "seventy shekels" further emphasizing the substantial nature of the offering. The bowl, "מִזְרָק" (mizrak), was often used in temple rituals, signifying the sacredness of the act. The number seventy, often associated with completeness and perfection in Scripture, suggests a fullness in the offering, representing a complete dedication to God.

according to the sanctuary shekel
The phrase "according to the sanctuary shekel" indicates that the weight was measured by the standard used in the tabernacle, ensuring uniformity and fairness. This standardization, "שֶׁקֶל הַקֹּדֶשׁ" (shekel ha-kodesh), highlights the importance of adhering to God's standards in worship and offerings, reminding believers of the need for holiness and consistency in their spiritual lives.

both of them full of fine flour mixed with oil
The offering being "full of fine flour mixed with oil" represents sustenance and anointing. Fine flour, "סֹלֶת" (solet), was a staple in ancient diets, symbolizing provision and nourishment. The oil, "שֶׁמֶן" (shemen), often signifies the Holy Spirit and anointing. Together, they form a grain offering, "מִנְחָה" (minchah), which is an expression of gratitude and dedication to God, acknowledging His provision and blessing.

for a grain offering
The "grain offering" is a type of sacrifice that signifies thanksgiving and devotion. In the Hebrew context, it is an offering of the fruits of the earth, symbolizing the work of human hands offered back to God. This act of worship reflects a heart of gratitude and recognition of God's sovereignty over all creation, encouraging believers to offer their best to the Lord in every aspect of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Tribe of Ephraim
This verse is part of the offerings brought by the leaders of the tribes of Israel during the dedication of the altar. The leader of the tribe of Ephraim, Elishama son of Ammihud, is the one presenting this offering.

2. Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The offerings were made for the dedication of the altar within the Tabernacle.

3. Sanctuary Shekel
A standard unit of weight used in the sanctuary, ensuring that offerings were consistent and fair.

4. Grain Offering
A type of offering made to God, consisting of fine flour mixed with oil, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving.

5. Dedication of the Altar
A significant event where each tribe's leader presented offerings over twelve days, symbolizing unity and commitment to God.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Offerings
The silver dish and bowl filled with fine flour and oil symbolize purity, dedication, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Believers are called to offer their lives as living sacrifices, pure and dedicated to God.

Unity in Worship
The collective offerings of the tribes highlight the importance of unity in worship. As the body of Christ, believers are encouraged to come together in worship and service, reflecting the unity of the Spirit.

Consistency in Giving
The use of the sanctuary shekel as a standard emphasizes the importance of consistency and fairness in our giving. Believers are encouraged to give generously and consistently, as God has prospered them.

Dedication to God
The dedication of the altar serves as a reminder of the need for personal dedication to God. Believers are called to dedicate their lives, time, and resources to God's service.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the offering of fine flour mixed with oil represent in the context of our spiritual lives today?

2. How can the concept of the sanctuary shekel guide us in our financial stewardship and giving?

3. In what ways can we, as a church community, reflect the unity demonstrated by the tribes of Israel during the dedication of the altar?

4. How does the dedication of the altar in Numbers 7 inspire us to dedicate our own lives to God?

5. What are some practical ways we can offer "sacrifices of praise" in our daily lives, as encouraged in Hebrews 13:15-16?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 2
Provides detailed instructions on grain offerings, emphasizing the importance of offerings made with fine flour and oil, which are symbols of purity and the Holy Spirit.

Exodus 30:13
Discusses the sanctuary shekel, providing context for the weight and value of the offerings made.

Hebrews 13:15-16
Encourages believers to offer sacrifices of praise and good deeds, drawing a parallel to the physical offerings made in the Old Testament.