Numbers 7:79

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
This phrase emphasizes the personal nature of the gift. In the context of Numbers 7, each leader of the tribes of Israel brought offerings for the dedication of the altar. The Hebrew word for "offering" is "קָרְבָּן" (korban), which signifies something brought near to God. This reflects the heart of worship, where offerings are not just material gifts but acts of devotion and submission to God.

one silver dish
The silver dish, or "קְעָרָה" (qe'arah) in Hebrew, was a significant item in the offering. Silver, a precious metal, symbolizes purity and redemption in biblical symbolism. The use of silver in the tabernacle and its furnishings often pointed to the value and purity required in worship and service to God.

weighing a hundred and thirty shekels
The specific weight of the dish, "a hundred and thirty shekels," indicates the substantial nature of the offering. The shekel was a standard unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel. This precise measurement underscores the importance of giving to God with intentionality and precision, reflecting the giver's respect and reverence.

one silver bowl of seventy shekels
The bowl, or "מִזְרָק" (mizraq), was another essential vessel used in the offerings. The weight of seventy shekels further highlights the generosity and commitment of the giver. In biblical numerology, the number seventy often represents completeness or perfection, suggesting that the offering was whole and sufficient in the eyes of God.

according to the sanctuary shekel
This phrase indicates that the weight was measured by the standard used in the sanctuary, ensuring uniformity and fairness. The "sanctuary shekel" was a specific standard, emphasizing the need for consistency and integrity in worship practices. It reminds believers that God desires offerings that are measured by His standards, not human ones.

both filled with fine flour mixed with oil
The contents of the vessels, "fine flour mixed with oil," were typical elements of a grain offering. Fine flour, or "סֹלֶת" (solet), represents the best of the harvest, while oil, "שֶׁמֶן" (shemen), symbolizes the Holy Spirit and anointing. Together, they signify an offering of the best of one's labor, consecrated by the Spirit, and dedicated to God.

for a grain offering
The grain offering, or "מִנְחָה" (minchah), was a voluntary act of worship, expressing gratitude and dedication to God. It was a non-blood offering, highlighting the aspect of thanksgiving and fellowship with God. This offering points to the believer's call to offer their lives as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, as an act of spiritual worship (Romans 12:1).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ahira son of Enan
The leader of the tribe of Naphtali, who presented the offering described in this verse.

2. Tribe of Naphtali
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Naphtali, the son of Jacob and Bilhah.

3. Tabernacle Dedication
The context of this verse is the dedication of the Tabernacle, where leaders of each tribe brought offerings.

4. Sanctuary Shekel
A unit of weight used in the sanctuary, indicating the standard for offerings.

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

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order and Structure in Worship
The detailed description of offerings highlights the importance of order and structure in worship, reflecting God's nature of orderliness.

Symbolism of the Grain Offering
The grain offering, made of fine flour and oil, symbolizes dedication and thanksgiving. It reminds believers to offer their best to God in gratitude.

Generosity and Sacrifice
The weight and value of the offerings underscore the principle of giving generously and sacrificially to God, trusting in His provision.

Unity in Diversity
Each tribe brought similar offerings, yet each was unique to its leader, illustrating unity in diversity within the body of believers.

Faithfulness in Small Things
The meticulous recording of each offering encourages faithfulness in small things, knowing that God values every act of obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the specific mention of weights and measures in Numbers 7:79 teach us about the nature of our offerings to God?

2. How does the grain offering in this passage connect to the broader theme of thanksgiving in the Bible?

3. In what ways can we apply the principle of giving our best to God in our daily lives?

4. How does the unity of the tribes in their offerings reflect the unity we should strive for in the church today?

5. Reflect on a time when you were faithful in a small task. How did that experience impact your spiritual growth and relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:29
Discusses the use of silver in the Tabernacle, connecting to the silver dish and bowl in Numbers 7:79.

Leviticus 2:1-16
Provides details on grain offerings, explaining their significance and preparation.

Hebrews 9:1-10
Reflects on the earthly sanctuary and its offerings, pointing to the greater spiritual truths fulfilled in Christ.