Numbers 7:82

one male goat for a sin offering;

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 "שָׂעִיר" (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 a practical choice for offerings. The selection of a male goat underscores the importance of the offering, as males were often considered more valuable in livestock terms. This choice reflects the seriousness with which sin was regarded and the need for a worthy sacrifice to atone for it.

for a sin offering
The term "for a sin offering" translates the Hebrew "לְחַטָּאת" (lechatat), which means "for sin" or "purification offering." This offering was a critical component of the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites. It was intended to atone for unintentional sins and to purify the individual or community from impurity. The sin offering was a profound expression of the need for reconciliation with God, highlighting the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin. In the broader scriptural context, the sin offering foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who, as the Lamb of God, takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). This connection emphasizes the continuity of God's redemptive plan throughout the Bible, culminating in the New Testament's message of grace and forgiveness through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ahira son of Enan
- Ahira is the leader of the tribe of Naphtali, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His name means "brother of evil" or "brother of a friend," and he plays a role in the offerings made during the dedication of the altar.

2. Tribe of Naphtali
- This is one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Naphtali, the sixth son of Jacob and Bilhah. The tribe is known for its warriors and is allotted land in the northern part of Canaan.

3. Dedication of the Altar
- This event involves the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel bringing offerings for the dedication of the altar in the Tabernacle. Each leader presents offerings on behalf of their tribe over twelve days.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order and Structure in Worship
The detailed account of offerings in Numbers 7 highlights the importance of order and structure in worship. Each tribe's leader brings offerings in a specific sequence, reflecting God's desire for orderly worship.

Community Participation in Worship
The involvement of all twelve tribes in the dedication of the altar underscores the communal aspect of worship. It reminds us that worship is not just an individual act but a collective expression of faith.

Symbolism of Offerings
The offerings brought by Ahira and the other leaders symbolize dedication and consecration to God. In our lives, we are called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, dedicating our time, talents, and resources to God's service.

Faithfulness in Leadership
Ahira's role as a leader bringing offerings on behalf of his tribe illustrates the responsibility of leaders to faithfully represent their people before God. This serves as a reminder for leaders today to act with integrity and dedication.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the orderly manner in which the offerings were presented during the dedication of the altar, and how can this apply to our worship practices today?

2. How does the communal aspect of the offerings in Numbers 7 reflect the nature of the church as the body of Christ?

3. In what ways can we offer ourselves as "living sacrifices" in our daily lives, as suggested by the symbolism of the offerings?

4. How does the role of Ahira as a leader inform our understanding of spiritual leadership and responsibility within the church?

5. How do the offerings in Numbers 7 point forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, and how does this connection deepen our understanding of the New Covenant?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters describe the instructions for building the Tabernacle and its furnishings, which are central to the worship and offerings described in Numbers 7.

Leviticus 1-7
These chapters outline the various offerings and sacrifices that the Israelites are to bring to the Tabernacle, providing context for the offerings made by the tribal leaders in Numbers 7.

Hebrews 9
This New Testament passage discusses the significance of the Tabernacle and the offerings in light of Christ's ultimate sacrifice, drawing a parallel between the Old Covenant practices and the New Covenant fulfillment.