Numbers 7:12

And he that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon the son of Amminadab, of the tribe of Judah:

And he that offered {H7126} his offering {H7133} the first {H7223} day {H3117} was Nahshon {H5177} the son {H1121} of Amminadab {H5992}, of the tribe {H4294} of Judah {H3063}:

Nachshon the son of 'Amminadav, from the tribe of Y'hudah, presented his offering on the first day.

On the first day Nahshon son of Amminadab from the tribe of Judah drew near with his offering.

And he that offered his oblation the first day was Nahshon the son of Amminadab, of the tribe of Judah:

Commentary

Numbers 7:12 introduces the beginning of a significant period of dedication in ancient Israel's history. This verse specifically highlights the first daily offering brought for the newly consecrated Tabernacle.

Context of Numbers 7:12

The book of Numbers chronicles Israel's journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. Chapter 7 details the elaborate dedication ceremony for the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary where God's presence dwelt among His people. After the Tabernacle's construction and anointing (Numbers 7:1), the leaders of each of the twelve tribes were instructed to bring specific offerings on successive days. This particular verse identifies the individual who led the offerings on the first day, setting the precedent for the subsequent days of dedication.

Key Figures and Their Significance

  • Nahshon the son of Amminadab: Nahshon was a prominent figure, serving as the prince or leader of the tribe of Judah. His name appears in several crucial biblical genealogies. He is notably an ancestor of King David and, ultimately, is listed in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:4). His offering on the first day underscores the early leadership and prominence of the tribe of Judah within Israel.
  • Tribe of Judah: From early on, Judah was marked for leadership and distinction. Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49:10 prophesied that the scepter would not depart from Judah, foreshadowing its future role as the royal tribe from which the Messiah would come.

The Nature of the Offering

While the specific contents of Nahshon's offering are detailed in subsequent verses (Numbers 7:13-17), the act itself represents a collective expression of worship, obedience, and generous giving. These were freewill offerings, demonstrating the tribes' devotion and commitment to the newly established covenant relationship with God through the Tabernacle, which served as the central point of worship and atonement.

Linguistic Insights

The name "Nahshon" (Hebrew: Χ Φ·Χ—Φ°Χ©ΧΧ•ΦΉΧŸ, Nachshon) is derived from a root meaning "enchanter" or "serpent," though its significance in this context is primarily genealogical. The emphasis here is less on the meaning of his name and more on his tribal affiliation and position as the first to offer.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Order and Leadership: The systematic approach of each tribe offering on a designated day highlights God's preference for order and structure in worship and community. Judah, through Nahshon, takes the lead, reflecting its divinely appointed prominence.
  • Worship and Dedication: The entire chapter emphasizes the importance of dedicating resources and firstfruits to God, signifying reverence and dependence.
  • Foreshadowing of Messiah: Nahshon's position as an ancestor of David and Jesus subtly points to God's long-term plan for salvation, rooted in specific lineages and tribes.

Practical Application

Numbers 7:12 reminds us of the importance of leadership in spiritual matters and the significance of personal and communal dedication to God. Just as Nahshon led his tribe in an act of worship and giving, believers today are called to lead by example in their devotion, generosity, and obedience. It underscores that every act of worship, no matter how small, contributes to the larger tapestry of God's redemptive plan and the building up of His kingdom.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 49:8

    ΒΆ Judah, thou [art he] whom thy brethren shall praise: thy hand [shall be] in the neck of thine enemies; thy father's children shall bow down before thee.

  • Genesis 49:10

    The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him [shall] the gathering of the people [be].

  • Numbers 10:14

    In the first [place] went the standard of the camp of the children of Judah according to their armies: and over his host [was] Nahshon the son of Amminadab.

  • Numbers 2:3

    ΒΆ And on the east side toward the rising of the sun shall they of the standard of the camp of Judah pitch throughout their armies: and Nahshon the son of Amminadab [shall be] captain of the children of Judah.

  • Ruth 4:20

    And Amminadab begat Nahshon, and Nahshon begat Salmon,

  • Numbers 1:7

    Of Judah; Nahshon the son of Amminadab.

  • Luke 3:32

    Which was [the son] of Jesse, which was [the son] of Obed, which was [the son] of Booz, which was [the son] of Salmon, which was [the son] of Naasson,
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