Numbers 7:59

KJV

And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this [was] the offering of Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.

KJV (with Strong's)

And for a sacrifice {H2077} of peace offerings {H8002}, two {H8147} oxen {H1241}, five {H2568} rams {H352}, five {H2568} he goats {H6260}, five {H2568} lambs {H3532} of the first {H1121} year {H8141}: this was the offering {H7133} of Gamaliel {H1583} the son {H1121} of Pedahzur {H6301}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and, for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs in their first year. This was the offering of Gamli'el the son of P'dahtzur.

Berean Standard Bible

and a peace offering of two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old. This was the offering of Gamaliel son of Pedahzur.

American Standard Version

and for the sacrifice of peace-offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he-goats, five he-lambs a year old: this was the oblation of Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 7:59 precisely records the specific contribution made by Gamaliel, the son of Pedahzur, on behalf of the tribe of Manasseh, as part of the extensive dedication offerings for the newly consecrated Tabernacle. This verse meticulously details the animals designated for a "sacrifice of peace offerings," namely two oxen, five rams, five he-goats, and five lambs of the first year, underscoring the significant generosity, meticulous adherence to divine instruction, and communal devotion exhibited by the tribal leaders in establishing the central place of worship for the Israelite nation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 7:59 is situated within the highly structured and lengthy account (Numbers 7:1-88) detailing the dedication of the Tabernacle after its completion and anointing. Following the initial anointing of the Tabernacle and its furnishings (Numbers 7:1-9), the narrative shifts to a day-by-day record of offerings brought by the princes of the twelve tribes of Israel. Each prince, representing his tribe, presented an identical set of gifts over twelve consecutive days. Gamaliel, identified earlier as the prince of the tribe of Manasseh (Numbers 7:54), presents his offering on the ninth day, mirroring the precise quantities and types of animals offered by the preceding eight princes and those who would follow. This meticulous repetition emphasizes the unity, order, and shared commitment of all Israel in establishing the worship of Yahweh. The offerings culminate in God's direct communication with Moses from the mercy seat (Numbers 7:89), signifying divine acceptance of the Tabernacle and its service. This chapter serves as a theological bridge, moving from the construction of the Tabernacle to its active use as the center of Israel's worship life.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for this event is the wilderness journey of the Israelites, approximately one year after their exodus from Egypt. The Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary, served as the physical dwelling place of God among His people, symbolizing His presence, guidance, and covenant faithfulness. Its dedication was a monumental event, marking the formal inauguration of Israel's corporate worship life centered on God's prescribed rituals. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, offerings played a vital role in religious practice, expressing devotion, seeking favor, and maintaining covenant relationships. The "peace offering" (Hebrew: *shelamim*) was unique among the various sacrifices (as detailed in [Leviticus 3](/leviticus/3 "Leviticus 3 - Laws of the Peace Offering")), as it involved a communal meal shared by the worshipper, priests, and God, symbolizing fellowship, reconciliation, and thanksgiving. The substantial number of animals offered by each prince, including Gamaliel, reflects not only the wealth of the tribes but also the profound importance placed on establishing a proper and bountiful worship system for the entire nation, demonstrating a collective commitment to the covenant God who had delivered them from [slavery in Egypt](/exodus/12-31 "Exodus 12:31 - The Exodus from Egypt").
* **Key Themes:** This verse, within the broader context of Numbers 7, contributes significantly to several key themes. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Presence and Accessibility**, as the Tabernacle's dedication solidified God's dwelling among His people and provided a prescribed means for them to approach Him. Secondly, it highlights **Communal Worship and Unity**, demonstrated by the unified, identical offerings from each tribal leader, signifying a corporate commitment to Yahweh. The repetition of these offerings throughout [Numbers 7](/numbers/7 "Numbers 7 - Offerings of the Princes") reinforces this unity. Thirdly, the focus on the **Peace Offering** emphasizes God's desire for *shalom*—wholeness, well-being, and harmonious fellowship—with His people, a theme central to the covenant relationship established at [Mount Sinai](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - The Giving of the Law at Sinai"). Finally, it illustrates the theme of **Generosity and Obedience**, as the princes' lavish contributions reflect their willing submission to God's commands and their dedication of resources for His glory.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sacrifice (Hebrew, _zebach'_):** From the root meaning "to slaughter," this term refers to the act of killing an animal for religious purposes, specifically the flesh of an animal offered to God. In the context of the Israelite sacrificial system, a *zebach* was a formal offering made to Yahweh, serving various purposes from atonement to thanksgiving. Here, it is specified as a "peace offering," indicating its particular function within the broader sacrificial framework.
* **Peace Offerings (Hebrew, _shelem'_):** Derived from the Hebrew root *shalom*, meaning "peace," "wholeness," "completeness," or "well-being." Unlike sin offerings (for atonement) or burnt offerings (for complete dedication), the *shelem* offering was primarily an expression of fellowship, thanksgiving, or the fulfillment of a vow. A portion of the animal was burned on the altar for God, a portion was given to the priests, and the remainder was eaten by the worshipper and his family or friends in a sacred meal. This communal consumption symbolized restored relationship, communion, and joyous fellowship with God and with one another, celebrating the peace and wholeness found in His presence.
* **Lambs of the First Year (Hebrew, _kebes ben shaneh'_):** This specification (combining H3532, H1121, H8141) indicates young, unblemished lambs, typically considered to be in their prime and therefore representing a valuable and pure offering. The requirement for animals "of the first year" for certain sacrifices, particularly peace offerings and burnt offerings, underscored the desire to offer the best, most unblemished, and most vigorous animals to God. This reflected the worshipper's sincerity, reverence, and the high regard for the sanctity of the offering, ensuring that only the choicest animals were presented to the Lord.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And for a sacrifice of peace offerings":** This opening phrase immediately identifies the specific category and purpose of the animals being offered. These were not offerings for sin or guilt, but rather offerings of *shalom*, intended to foster and celebrate a right relationship with God, characterized by peace, thanksgiving, and communion. The very nature of the peace offering, allowing the worshipper to partake in a meal with God, highlights the intimacy and accessibility God desired with His people.
* **"two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year":** This precise enumeration details the substantial quantity and variety of animals contributed by Gamaliel. The inclusion of oxen, rams, he-goats, and young lambs demonstrates a comprehensive and generous offering. The large number (17 animals in total for this category alone, per prince) emphasizes the magnitude of the dedication event and the willingness of the tribal leaders to provide abundantly for the Tabernacle's sacrificial system, which would sustain the priestly service and communal worship. The specific types of animals also reflect the diverse agricultural wealth of the tribes.
* **"this [was] the offering of Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.":** This concluding statement attributes the specific offering to Gamaliel, the prince of the tribe of Manasseh. It underscores the individual responsibility and leadership role of each tribal head in contributing to the national worship. The repetition of this exact phrase for each of the twelve princes throughout Numbers 7 reinforces the orderly, unified, and comprehensive nature of the Tabernacle's dedication, with each tribe participating equally in this foundational act of worship. The names themselves, "Gamaliel" (reward of God) and "Pedahzur" (a rock/God has ransomed), subtly underscore the theological underpinnings of the offerings: they are a response to God's gracious provision and deliverance.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs **Repetition** as a dominant literary device throughout Numbers chapter 7. The identical list of offerings presented by each of the twelve tribal princes, including Gamaliel, is repeated verbatim for each entry (Numbers 7:12-83). This extensive repetition serves to emphasize the unity of the tribes, their shared commitment to God's covenant, and the divine order established for worship. It highlights that all Israel stood equally before God, participating in the same act of dedication. Furthermore, **Symbolism** is profoundly present in the peace offering itself. The shared meal of the *shelamim* symbolized reconciliation, fellowship, and the joyous communion between God and His people, as well as among the people themselves. The unblemished animals symbolize purity and the high value placed on the offering, reflecting the sacredness of the encounter with God. The sheer volume of offerings also symbolizes the abundance of God's provision and the people's grateful response.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 7:59, as part of the broader Tabernacle dedication narrative, powerfully illustrates the themes of divine presence, communal worship, and the importance of fellowship with God. The peace offering, in particular, highlights God's desire for His people to experience *shalom*—wholeness and peace—in His presence. It speaks to the joy and thanksgiving that should accompany worship and the privilege of communing with the Creator. The unified and generous contributions from all tribes underscore the corporate nature of Israel's relationship with God and their collective responsibility in maintaining the covenant. This act of dedication established the Tabernacle as the central place where God's holiness and grace met, providing a means for His people to draw near and experience His reconciling presence. The meticulous details reflect God's demand for order and excellence in worship, but also His gracious provision for His people to approach Him.

* [Leviticus 7:11-21](/leviticus/7-11-21 "Leviticus 7:11-21 - Laws for Peace Offerings")
* [Psalm 116:17](/psalm/116-17 "Psalm 116:17 - Offering Sacrifices of Thanksgiving")
* [Hebrews 13:15-16](/hebrews/13-15-16 "Hebrews 13:15-16 - Spiritual Sacrifices of Praise and Good Deeds")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous detail of Gamaliel's offering, mirroring all others, invites us to reflect on the nature of our own devotion and participation in God's work. While the Old Testament sacrificial system has been fulfilled in Christ, the underlying principles of generosity, unity, and the pursuit of fellowship with God remain profoundly relevant. We are called to offer ourselves as "living sacrifices" (Romans 12:1), presenting our lives, resources, and talents to God with a willing and joyful heart, not out of obligation but out of love and gratitude for His saving grace. The peace offering's emphasis on communion reminds us that our worship is not merely individual but also corporate, fostering unity and fellowship within the body of Christ. It challenges us to actively seek peace with God and with one another, celebrating the wholeness and reconciliation that Christ has secured. Our offerings today, whether of praise, service, or material gifts, should reflect the same intentionality and generosity seen in the Tabernacle dedication, aiming to honor God and build up His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous nature of the Tabernacle offerings challenge my own approach to giving and worship, prompting me to consider the quality and intentionality of my offerings to God?**
* **In what ways can I cultivate a deeper sense of "peace and wholeness" (shalom) in my relationship with God and with others, reflecting the essence of the peace offering in my daily interactions and spiritual life?**
* **How does my participation in corporate worship demonstrate unity and shared commitment to God's purposes, akin to the tribal leaders' unified offerings, and how can I contribute more fully to the body of Christ?**

### FAQ
**What was the significance of the "peace offering" compared to other sacrifices?**

Answer: The peace offering (*shelamim*) was unique among Israelite sacrifices because, unlike the burnt offering (total dedication) or sin/guilt offerings (atonement for sin), a significant portion of it was returned to the worshipper to be eaten in a communal meal. This meal symbolized fellowship, reconciliation, and joyous communion with God and with fellow believers. It was an expression of thanksgiving, the fulfillment of a vow, or a freewill offering, celebrating the *shalom* (peace, wholeness) that existed in the relationship between God and His people. It was a time of feasting and rejoicing in God's presence, highlighting God's desire for intimate fellowship, as detailed in [Leviticus 7:11-21](/leviticus/7-11-21 "Leviticus 7:11-21 - Laws for Peace Offerings").

**Why did all the tribal princes offer the exact same gifts in Numbers 7?**

Answer: The repetition of identical offerings from each of the twelve tribal princes (including Gamaliel) in Numbers 7 served several significant purposes. Firstly, it underscored the unity and equality of the twelve tribes, emphasizing that all Israel stood equally before God and participated in the dedication of His dwelling place. Secondly, it demonstrated strict adherence to divine instruction and order, highlighting the importance of obedience and conformity to God's prescribed worship. Thirdly, it showcased the collective generosity and commitment of the entire nation to establish and support the Tabernacle's sacrificial system. This uniformity also prevented competition and ensured that no single tribe's offering overshadowed another's, reinforcing the principle that all contributions were equally valued by God for the common good of the community, as seen in the detailed account of offerings in [Numbers 7](/numbers/7 "Numbers 7 - Offerings of the Princes").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The peace offerings of the Old Covenant, exemplified by Gamaliel's generous contribution, beautifully foreshadow the ultimate peace and fellowship secured through Jesus Christ. While the *shelamim* provided a temporary means for Israel to commune with God through a shared meal, it pointed forward to the perfect and final sacrifice of the [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), Jesus Christ. Through His atoning death on the cross, Christ became our true peace offering, reconciling humanity to God and breaking down the wall of hostility (Ephesians 2:14-16). He established a new covenant, not based on animal sacrifices, but on His own shed blood, granting us direct access to the Father (Hebrews 10:19-20) and inviting us into an eternal, unbroken fellowship. The communal meal of the peace offering finds its ultimate fulfillment in the Lord's Supper, where believers partake in the body and blood of Christ, remembering His sacrifice and celebrating our ongoing communion with Him and with one another (1 Corinthians 10:16-17). Thus, Gamaliel's offering, though ancient, points us to the profound reality that our peace with God is not earned by our gifts, but freely given through the perfect offering of Christ, enabling us to live lives of thanksgiving and spiritual worship (Romans 12:1), becoming a [royal priesthood](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Royal Priesthood") offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Him.

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.