Numbers 7:54

KJV

On the eighth day [offered] Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur, prince of the children of Manasseh:

KJV (with Strong's)

On the eighth {H8066} day {H3117} offered Gamaliel {H1583} the son {H1121} of Pedahzur {H6301}, prince {H5387} of the children {H1121} of Manasseh {H4519}:

Complete Jewish Bible

On the eighth day was Gamli'el the son of P'dahtzur, leader of the descendants of M'nasheh.

Berean Standard Bible

On the eighth day Gamaliel son of Pedahzur, the leader of the Manassites, drew near.

American Standard Version

On the eighth day Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur, prince of the children of Manasseh:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 7:54 meticulously records the offering brought by Gamaliel, the prince of the tribe of Manasseh, on the eighth day of the Tabernacle's dedication ceremony. This verse is part of an extensive and repetitive account in Numbers chapter 7, which details the identical contributions from each of the twelve tribal leaders, underscoring the communal commitment to Israel's central place of worship and God's desire for orderly, unified devotion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 7:54 is situated within a lengthy and highly structured passage (Numbers 7:1-88) that meticulously recounts the dedication offerings for the newly erected and consecrated Tabernacle. Following the detailed instructions for its construction and the dramatic filling of the Tabernacle with the glory of the Lord in [Exodus 40:34-38](/exodus/40-34 "Exodus 40:34-38 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Tabernacle"), this chapter marks the formal inauguration of Israel's worship system. Each of the twelve tribal princes, in a divinely prescribed order, brings an identical set of gifts over twelve consecutive days. The repetitive nature of the account, where each prince's offering is listed with identical items, serves to emphasize the unity of the tribes in their devotion, the thoroughness of their obedience, and the immense value placed on the Tabernacle as the dwelling place of God among His people. Gamaliel's offering on the eighth day is thus one specific instance within this larger, meticulously ordered liturgical event.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The dedication of the Tabernacle occurred shortly after the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their encampment at Mount Sinai, where they received the Mosaic Law and the blueprints for the Tabernacle. This period was foundational for the nascent nation of Israel, establishing their identity as a covenant people under Yahweh. The Tabernacle was not merely a tent but the physical manifestation of God's presence in their midst, a mobile sanctuary that would accompany them through the wilderness. Offerings, such as those described in [Numbers 7](/numbers/7 "Numbers 7 - Offerings for the Tabernacle Dedication"), were common in ancient Near Eastern cultures as a means of honoring deities and securing divine favor, but Israel's offerings were distinct in their emphasis on obedience to divine command and their communal, covenantal nature. The role of the "prince" (_nasi_) was crucial, as these tribal leaders represented their entire clan, ensuring that the dedication was a national, unified act of worship and commitment to the covenant established at [Mount Sinai](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - Israel at Mount Sinai").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Gamaliel (Hebrew, _Gamli'el'_):** Meaning "my recompense is God" or "God is my reward," this name reflects a theological conviction common in ancient Israelite naming practices. Gamaliel, the son of Pedahzur, is identified as the prince of the tribe of Manasseh, indicating his significant leadership role and the expectation that he would lead his people in faithfulness and worship. His name itself points to the ultimate source of blessing and provision for the individual and the tribe.
* **Prince (Hebrew, _nāśî'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to lift up" or "to be exalted," a _nāśî'_ was a chief, leader, or exalted one within the tribal structure. This term denotes not merely a hereditary title but a position of authority and responsibility, particularly in representing the tribe before God and other tribes. Gamaliel's status as _nāśî'_ underscores the official and representative nature of his offering, making it an act on behalf of the entire tribe of Manasseh.
* **Manasseh (Hebrew, _Mənaššeh'_):** Meaning "causing to forget," referring to Joseph's declaration that God had made him forget all his toil and his father's house ([Genesis 41:51](/genesis/41-51 "Genesis 41:51 - Joseph Names Manasseh")). Manasseh was one of the two sons of Joseph (along with Ephraim) who became heads of distinct tribes, receiving a significant inheritance in the Promised Land. The inclusion of Manasseh's prince in this dedication ceremony signifies the full and equal participation of all the tribes of Israel in the national worship and covenant renewal.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"On the eighth day":** This phrase specifies the precise timing of Gamaliel's offering within the twelve-day dedication ceremony. The sequence highlights the meticulous order prescribed by God for the Tabernacle's inauguration, emphasizing the importance of adherence to divine instruction and the systematic nature of worship. The eighth day, following a week of offerings, might also subtly evoke themes of new beginnings or completion, similar to the eighth day of circumcision or the start of a new week.
* **"[offered] Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur":** While the verb "offered" is implied in the King James Version (indicated by brackets), it is clearly understood from the preceding verses in Numbers 7. This clause identifies the specific individual responsible for the day's offering. Gamaliel's lineage, "the son of Pedahzur," establishes his identity and tribal affiliation, reinforcing the patriarchal and familial structure of Israelite society and the hereditary nature of tribal leadership.
* **"prince of the children of Manasseh":** This final phrase explicitly states Gamaliel's official role and the tribe he represents. As the "prince" (_nasi_), he acts as the designated representative and leader of the tribe of Manasseh, ensuring their participation in this crucial national act of worship and covenant affirmation. His offering is not merely a personal act but a communal one, signifying the devotion and commitment of the entire tribe to the Tabernacle and the God who dwells within it.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 7, including verse 54, prominently employs **Repetition** as a primary literary device. The identical enumeration of offerings for each of the twelve tribal princes creates a powerful sense of order, thoroughness, and unity. This deliberate repetition is not merely redundant but serves to underscore the meticulous nature of God's commands and the Israelites' faithful obedience, emphasizing the communal and unified nature of their worship. The chapter also utilizes **Enumeration** and **Cataloging**, systematically listing each prince and their contributions, which reinforces the historical accuracy and the comprehensive scope of the dedication. Furthermore, the very act of offering, particularly the specific items like silver bowls, gold pans, and various animals, functions as **Symbolism**. These offerings symbolize the Israelites' devotion, their willingness to give their best to God, and the atonement necessary for fellowship with a holy God, foreshadowing the greater sacrifice to come.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 7:54, as part of the broader dedication narrative, powerfully illustrates several core theological principles. It highlights God's demand for order and precision in worship, emphasizing that true devotion is not haphazard but intentional and structured according to divine command. The participation of every tribe, represented by its prince, underscores the unity of God's people in their shared covenant relationship and their collective responsibility for maintaining the sanctuary. The valuable nature of the offerings also speaks to the principle of giving one's best to God, acknowledging His supreme authority and bountiful provision. This act of national consecration sets apart the Tabernacle as the sacred space where God's presence would dwell, teaching Israel about the holiness of God and the necessary means of approaching Him.

* [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Command to Build the Sanctuary")
* [Leviticus 1:2](/leviticus/1-2 "Leviticus 1:2 - Instructions for Burnt Offerings")
* [Deuteronomy 12:5-7](/deuteronomy/12-5 "Deuteronomy 12:5-7 - The Central Place of Worship")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of the Tabernacle's dedication, culminating in the individual tribal offerings like Gamaliel's, provides timeless principles for contemporary believers. It challenges us to consider the intentionality and quality of our own worship, both individually and corporately. Just as the Israelites brought their best to God, we are called to offer our time, talents, resources, and devotion with a spirit of excellence and obedience. The unity demonstrated by the tribes, each contributing equally, reminds us of the importance of harmony and mutual contribution within the body of Christ, where every member plays a vital role in the collective worship and mission of the church. Furthermore, the meticulous adherence to God's instructions serves as a powerful reminder that true faith involves not just belief, but also diligent obedience to God's revealed Word in all areas of life, recognizing that His ways are always for our good and His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways can I offer "my best" to God in my daily life, beyond just material possessions?**
* **How does the unity of the tribes in Numbers 7 challenge or affirm the unity in my local church or Christian community?**
* **What specific areas of my life need greater intentionality and obedience to God's Word, mirroring the meticulous dedication of the Tabernacle?**

### FAQ

**Why is Numbers chapter 7 so repetitive in its description of the offerings?**

Answer: The repetition in [Numbers 7](/numbers/7 "Numbers 7 - The Offerings of the Tribal Leaders") serves several crucial purposes. Theologically, it emphasizes the absolute obedience of the tribal leaders to God's precise commands, highlighting the importance of following divine instructions meticulously. Liturgically, it underscores the unity of the twelve tribes in their worship and dedication to the Tabernacle; though distinct, they all brought identical offerings, signifying their shared commitment to Yahweh. Pedagogically, the repetition reinforces the significance and value of the Tabernacle and its service, ensuring that no detail of this foundational act of national worship is overlooked or forgotten. It also might serve as a legal record, validating each tribe's participation.

**What was the significance of Gamaliel's role as "prince" (_nasi_)?**

Answer: Gamaliel, as the "prince" (_nasi_) of the children of Manasseh, held a position of significant authority and representation within his tribe. The _nasi_ was not just a figurehead but a leader responsible for the welfare and spiritual direction of his people. In the context of the Tabernacle dedication, Gamaliel's offering was not a private act but a public, representative one on behalf of the entire tribe of Manasseh. This emphasized that the dedication was a national, unified act of worship involving all the tribes, led by their appointed heads. His leadership role is further highlighted in passages like [Numbers 10:23](/numbers/10-23 "Numbers 10:23 - Gamaliel Leads Manasseh's Host"), where he is seen leading the host of Manasseh during their wilderness journeys.

**Does the "eighth day" have any special meaning beyond just the sequence?**

Answer: While primarily indicating the chronological sequence in the twelve-day dedication, the "eighth day" often carries symbolic significance in biblical thought. In other contexts, the eighth day marks a new beginning, completion, or a new creation. For example, circumcision occurred on the eighth day, symbolizing covenant initiation and new life ([Genesis 17:12](/genesis/17-12 "Genesis 17:12 - Circumcision on the Eighth Day")). The dedication of the Tabernacle on the eighth day for Gamaliel (and the subsequent days for others) could subtly hint at the establishment of a new era of worship and fellowship with God, a fresh start for the nation in their covenant relationship, following the initial week-long consecration.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The meticulous dedication of the Tabernacle, exemplified by Gamaliel's offering in [Numbers 7:54](/numbers/7-54 "Numbers 7:54 - Gamaliel's Offering"), finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle, with its precise construction and elaborate sacrificial system, was a shadow of the true dwelling place of God among humanity. Jesus is the [true Tabernacle](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh and Dwelt Among Us"), the very presence of God "tabernacling" among us, full of grace and truth. The repeated offerings of the tribal princes, though valuable, were imperfect and temporary, requiring continual repetition for the atonement of sins. Christ, however, offered Himself as the [perfect, once-for-all sacrifice](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Christ's Once-for-All Sacrifice"), fulfilling all the types and shadows of the Old Testament sacrificial system. Just as Gamaliel represented his tribe in offering their best, Jesus, our great High Priest, represents all humanity, offering Himself as the spotless [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") to take away the sin of the world. Through His finished work, believers become part of a [spiritual house](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - A Spiritual House for Holy Priesthood"), a new temple where God's Spirit dwells, requiring no further physical dedication but rather lives offered in worship and obedience to Him who has made us holy.

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

Numbers 1:10

Of the children of Joseph: of Ephraim; Elishama the son of Ammihud: of Manasseh; Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.

Numbers 2:20

And by him [shall be] the tribe of Manasseh: and the captain of the children of Manasseh [shall be] Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.