Numbers 31:29

KJV

Take [it] of their half, and give it unto Eleazar the priest, [for] an heave offering of the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

Take {H3947} it of their half {H4276}, and give {H5414} it unto Eleazar {H499} the priest {H3548}, for an heave offering {H8641} of the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

take it from their half and give it to El'azar the cohen as a portion set apart for ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

Take it from their half and give it to Eleazar the priest as an offering to the LORD.

American Standard Version

take it of their half, and give it unto Eleazar the priest, for Jehovah’s heave-offering.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 31:29 provides a precise divine instruction regarding the distribution of spoils from the successful war against the Midianites. This verse mandates that a specific portion be taken from the warriors' half of the plunder and designated for Eleazar the High Priest, to be presented as a sacred "heave offering" to the Lord. This act underscored God's sovereignty over all victory and provision, while simultaneously ensuring the sustenance of the Levitical priesthood.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 31:29 is situated within the broader narrative of Israel's punitive war against the Midianites, commanded by God in [Numbers 31:1-2](/numbers/31-1 "Numbers 31:1-2 - God's Command for Vengeance"). Following a decisive victory and the capture of immense spoils, Moses, Eleazar, and the leaders of the congregation were given detailed instructions by the Lord concerning the purification of the plunder and its equitable distribution. The spoils were divided into two equal halves: one for the 12,000 warriors who participated in the battle, and the other for the rest of the congregation of Israel. From each of these halves, a specific tribute was required for the Lord. Verse 29 specifically addresses the portion from the warriors' half, which was a very small fraction (one out of every five hundred persons or animals, as specified in [Numbers 31:28](/numbers/31-28 "Numbers 31:28 - The Lord's Tribute from the Warriors' Share")), to be given to the priests, with Eleazar as the recipient. This meticulous accounting and dedication of spoils highlight the divine order and sanctity of all things related to Israel's covenant relationship with God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The practice of dedicating a portion of war spoils to deities was common in the ancient Near East, reflecting the belief that victory was granted by divine power. However, Israel's system, as outlined in the Mosaic Law, was unique in its ethical and theological underpinnings. This war against Midian was not merely a territorial conquest but an act of divine judgment for Midian's role in leading Israel into idolatry and immorality at Peor (cf. [Numbers 25:1-18](/numbers/25-1 "Numbers 25 - Israel's Sin at Peor")). The spoils, therefore, were not simply plunder but the material outcome of a holy war. The Levitical priesthood, including the High Priest Eleazar, was set apart for sacred service and did not inherit land like the other tribes (cf. [Numbers 18:20](/numbers/18-20 "Numbers 18:20 - The Lord is the Levites' Inheritance")). Their sustenance was provided through offerings and tithes from the people, ensuring they could devote themselves fully to their spiritual duties. This specific "heave offering" from the war spoils served as another means of supporting the priestly class, reinforcing their integral role in Israel's worship and national life.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Numbers and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it powerfully underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Providence**, affirming that all victory, wealth, and material blessings ultimately originate from the Lord. The act of setting aside a portion acknowledges God as the supreme giver and owner of all things, even spoils of war. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Support for the Priesthood and the Levitical System**. The detailed instructions for contributions to the priests and Levites, as seen throughout [Numbers 18](/numbers/18 "Numbers 18 - Duties of Priests and Levites"), ensure that those dedicated to the Tabernacle service are adequately provided for, enabling them to focus on their sacred duties without distraction. Thirdly, the concept of **Sanctification and Holiness** is central. By dedicating a portion of the spoils to God, the entire plunder was symbolically consecrated and made permissible for the Israelites' use, reinforcing the principle that God's portion must be honored first to sanctify the whole. This also ties into the theme of **Obedience to Divine Command**, as Moses and the people meticulously followed God's specific instructions for handling the spoils of this holy war.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Heave offering (Hebrew, _terumah'_):** This term derives from the root רוּם (_rum_), meaning "to lift up" or "to raise." While some offerings involved a physical "heaving" or lifting up, the core meaning of _terumah_ is a dedicated contribution, a "raised portion," or a "gift" set apart for sacred purposes. It signifies a consecrated portion that is specifically given to God, typically for the maintenance of the Tabernacle (and later, the Temple) and its ministers. It implies a separation from common use for holy use, acknowledging divine ownership and provision.
* **Eleazar the priest (Hebrew, _'El'azar ha-kohen'_):** Eleazar was the son of Aaron and succeeded him as the High Priest of Israel (cf. [Numbers 20:28](/numbers/20-28 "Numbers 20:28 - Aaron's Death and Eleazar's Succession")). As High Priest, he was the chief mediator between God and Israel, responsible for overseeing the Tabernacle service, administering the law, and receiving offerings on behalf of the Lord. The instruction to give the _terumah_ to Eleazar specifically underscores his central role in the priestly administration and the sacred nature of the offering.
* **Of the LORD (Hebrew, _la-YHWH'_):** This phrase emphasizes that the "heave offering" is not merely a payment or a tax to the priesthood, but a direct dedication to God Himself. It signifies divine ownership and the sacred purpose of the contribution. The spoils, though won by human hands, are ultimately seen as gifts from the Lord, and a portion is returned to Him as an act of worship, gratitude, and acknowledgment of His sovereignty.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Take [it] of their half":** This clause refers to the portion of the spoils allocated to the 12,000 warriors who participated directly in the battle against Midian. As detailed in [Numbers 31:27](/numbers/31-27 "Numbers 31:27 - Division of the Spoil"), the total plunder was divided into two equal halves: one for the warriors and one for the rest of the congregation. From the warriors' half, a very small, specific fraction (one out of every five hundred, as per [Numbers 31:28](/numbers/31-28 "Numbers 31:28 - The Lord's Tribute")) was to be taken. This precise instruction highlights the meticulousness of God's commands and the principle of tithing or offering even from extraordinary gains.
* **"and give it unto Eleazar the priest":** This specifies the recipient of the designated portion. Eleazar, as the High Priest, served as the representative of the entire priesthood and the administrator of all offerings dedicated to the Lord. This act ensured that the consecrated portion was handled by the authorized spiritual leader, reinforcing the hierarchical structure of Israel's religious system and the importance of proper stewardship of sacred contributions. The offering was for the sustenance and support of the priestly class, enabling them to fulfill their duties in the Tabernacle.
* **"[for] a heave offering of the LORD":** This defines the nature and purpose of the contribution. It was not merely a tax or a secular gift, but a _terumah_, a sacred "heave offering" directly to Yahweh. This designation signifies that the offering was consecrated, set apart from common use, and dedicated to God's service. It served as a tangible expression of Israel's gratitude for divine victory and provision, acknowledging God's ultimate ownership of all wealth and His right to receive a portion of it for the maintenance of His sanctuary and His ministers.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 31:29 employs several literary devices to convey its message. The verse utilizes **Legal Language** and a **Prescriptive Tone**, characteristic of the Mosaic Law, as it issues a direct command ("Take... and give") regarding the handling of sacred spoils. This imperative mood underscores the divine authority behind the instruction and its non-negotiable nature. Furthermore, the phrase "heave offering of the LORD" functions as **Metonymy**, where the offering itself stands for the act of dedication and the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. The physical act of "heaving" or setting aside a portion **Symbolizes** the spiritual act of consecration and gratitude, making a tangible connection between material wealth and spiritual devotion. The entire process of dividing and dedicating the spoils also serves as a **Type** or foreshadowing, pointing to broader principles of divine ownership, stewardship, and the support of God's work throughout salvation history.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 31:29 encapsulates profound theological truths that extend far beyond its immediate historical context. It powerfully articulates the principle of divine ownership: all blessings, including material wealth and military victories, originate from the Lord and are ultimately His. The command to set aside a portion, even from the spoils of war, serves as a tangible act of worship and gratitude, acknowledging God's sovereignty over every aspect of life. This dedication also highlights the divine provision for those set apart for sacred service, establishing a foundational principle for supporting ministry. Just as the priests were sustained by the offerings of the people, so too are those who dedicate their lives to proclaiming God's Word and serving His church to be supported by the community of faith, enabling them to fulfill their calling without distraction. This verse, therefore, is a testament to God's order, His claim on His people's resources, and His care for His ministers.

* [Numbers 18:21](/numbers/18-21 "Provision for Levites")
* [Deuteronomy 12:6](/deuteronomy/12-6 "Offerings to the Lord")
* [Malachi 3:10](/malachi/3-10 "Bringing the Whole Tithe")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 31:29, though rooted in ancient Israel's military context, offers enduring principles for believers today. It calls us to a profound acknowledgment that all we possess—our resources, talents, time, and even our successes—are ultimately gifts from God. The act of setting aside a portion as a "heave offering" is a powerful reminder to live with a "firstfruits" mentality, honoring God with the best of what He has given us, rather than offering Him leftovers. This isn't merely about financial giving, but about dedicating our entire lives as an offering of gratitude and worship. Furthermore, the verse underscores the importance of supporting those who minister God's Word. Just as Eleazar and the priests were sustained by the offerings of the people, those who serve in full-time ministry today are to be supported by the church, enabling them to devote themselves fully to their calling. Our giving, therefore, becomes an act of partnership in God's ongoing work, reflecting our trust in His provision and our commitment to His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of a "heave offering of the LORD" challenge my understanding of ownership and stewardship in my own life?**
* **In what practical ways can I acknowledge God as the ultimate source of all my blessings, beyond just financial giving?**
* **How does the principle of supporting spiritual leaders and those in full-time ministry apply to my responsibilities as a believer today?**

### FAQ
**Why was the offering given to Eleazar specifically, and not just "the priests"?**

Answer: Eleazar was the High Priest at this time, having succeeded his father Aaron (cf. [Numbers 20:28](/numbers/20-28 "Numbers 20:28 - Aaron's Death and Eleazar's Succession")). As the High Priest, he served as the chief spiritual leader and administrator of all sacred offerings and duties related to the Tabernacle. While the offering ultimately benefited the entire priestly class (the sons of Aaron), giving it directly to Eleazar centralized the sacred contributions and ensured proper administration and distribution. It underscored his unique authority and responsibility in handling matters pertaining to the Lord's portion.

**What was the exact amount of the "heave offering" from the warriors' half?**

Answer: Numbers 31:28 specifies the exact amount: "And levy a tribute unto the LORD of the men of war which went out to battle: one soul of five hundred, both of the persons, and of the beeves, and of the asses, and of the sheep." This means that for every 500 individuals, cattle, donkeys, or sheep in the warriors' half of the spoils, one was to be set aside as a "heave offering" for the Lord, given to Eleazar. This was a remarkably small fraction, emphasizing the symbolic nature of the offering as an acknowledgment of God's sovereignty rather than a significant economic burden.

**How does this "heave offering" relate to other offerings in the Old Testament?**

Answer: The "heave offering" (Hebrew: _terumah_) was a broad category for various contributions set apart for sacred purposes, primarily for the upkeep of the Tabernacle/Temple and the sustenance of the priests and Levites. It could be voluntary (like contributions for the Tabernacle's construction, cf. [Exodus 25:2](/exodus/25-2 "Exodus 25:2 - Offerings for the Tabernacle")) or mandated (like the tithe of grain, new wine, and oil, cf. [Deuteronomy 18:4](/deuteronomy/18-4 "Deuteronomy 18:4 - Priests' Portion")). Unlike sin offerings, burnt offerings, or peace offerings, which had specific atoning, worship, or fellowship purposes and often involved sacrifice on the altar, the _terumah_ was primarily a consecrated gift of resources. While distinct in its immediate purpose, it shared the common theme of dedication to God and supporting the infrastructure of Israel's worship.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 31:29, with its emphasis on a "heave offering of the LORD" given to the priest, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. The Old Testament system of offerings and a mediating priesthood pointed forward to the ultimate and perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He is the true and final "heave offering," not merely a portion of spoils, but God's own Son, lifted up on the cross as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of the world (cf. [John 3:14](/john/3-14 "John 3:14 - The Son of Man Must Be Lifted Up") and [Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). Through His singular act, Christ perfectly fulfilled all the requirements of the Old Testament sacrificial system, including the concept of a consecrated offering to God. Furthermore, just as Eleazar received the offering for the sustenance of the priesthood, Christ, as our Great High Priest (cf. [Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, Our Great High Priest")), receives the "spiritual sacrifices" of His people—our bodies presented as living sacrifices (cf. [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")) and our praises and good deeds (cf. [Hebrews 13:15-16](/hebrews/13-15 "Hebrews 13:15-16 - Sacrifices of Praise and Good Works")). In the New Covenant, all believers are part of a "royal priesthood" (cf. [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood")), called to offer themselves and their resources for the advancement of God's kingdom. Our giving, therefore, is not merely a duty but a joyful response to Christ's ultimate offering, enabling the spread of the Gospel and the support of those called to full-time ministry, just as the Old Testament offerings sustained the Levitical system (cf. [2 Corinthians 9:7](/2_corinthians/9-7 "2 Corinthians 9:7 - Cheerful Giving")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 12:12

And ye shall rejoice before the LORD your God, ye, and your sons, and your daughters, and your menservants, and your maidservants, and the Levite that [is] within your gates; forasmuch as he hath no part nor inheritance with you.

Deuteronomy 12:19

Take heed to thyself that thou forsake not the Levite as long as thou livest upon the earth.

Numbers 18:26

Thus speak unto the Levites, and say unto them, When ye take of the children of Israel the tithes which I have given you from them for your inheritance, then ye shall offer up an heave offering of it for the LORD, [even] a tenth [part] of the tithe.

Exodus 29:27

And thou shalt sanctify the breast of the wave offering, and the shoulder of the heave offering, which is waved, and which is heaved up, of the ram of the consecration, [even] of [that] which [is] for Aaron, and of [that] which is for his sons: