Numbers 7:41

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 Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.

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 Shelumiel {H8017} the son {H1121} of Zurishaddai {H6701}.

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 Shlumi'el the son of Tzurishaddai.

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

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 Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.

Commentary

Numbers 7:41 details the specific animals offered by Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai, the prince of the tribe of Simeon, as his contribution to the dedication of the newly erected Tabernacle. This verse is part of a lengthy and repetitive chapter that records the identical offerings brought by each of the twelve tribal leaders of Israel on successive days.

Context of Numbers 7:41

The entire seventh chapter of Numbers describes the monumental event of dedicating the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary where God's presence dwelt among His people. After its construction and anointing, as detailed in Numbers 7:1, each tribal leader presented a lavish offering. Shelumiel's offering, specifically the "sacrifice of peace offerings," was a crucial part of this collective act of worship and consecration. The repetition across the twelve days emphasizes the unity and completeness of Israel's devotion to God and the meticulous adherence to divine instruction.

Key Themes in Numbers 7:41

  • Generosity and Dedication: The substantial number of animals listed—two oxen, five rams, five he goats, and five lambs—highlights the Israelites' profound dedication and willingness to give generously to the Lord. This was not a minimal offering but a costly and significant sacrifice, demonstrating deep reverence for God.
  • Order and Unity: The fact that every tribal prince presented the exact same offering underscores the divine order and unity within the Israelite community. Despite their distinct tribal identities, they were united in their worship and obedience to God's commands, participating equally in the Tabernacle's dedication.
  • Fellowship with God: The "peace offering" (Hebrew: zevach shlamim) was unique among the sacrifices prescribed in the Old Testament. Unlike burnt offerings which were wholly consumed, portions of the peace offering were shared by the offerer, the priests, and God (symbolically consumed by fire on the altar), illustrating reconciliation and communal fellowship with God. This type of offering often expressed thanksgiving or was a freewill offering, emphasizing a desire for harmonious relationship with God.
  • Leadership by Example: The tribal leaders, like Shelumiel, set a powerful example for their respective tribes by leading the way in worship, sacrifice, and obedience. Their actions encouraged the entire nation to participate wholeheartedly in the dedication of the Tabernacle and in their spiritual duties.

Linguistic Insight

The term "peace offerings" translates the Hebrew phrase zevach shlamim (זֶבַח שְׁלָמִים). The root of shlamim is related to shalom, meaning "peace," "completeness," "wholeness," or "well-being." This connection emphasizes that the purpose of these sacrifices was to restore or maintain a state of peace, wholeness, and harmonious relationship with God and within the community. It speaks to the desire for and experience of God's favor and reconciliation, often accompanied by a celebratory meal.

Significance and Application

Numbers 7:41, though seemingly a simple list of animals, offers profound insights for today's believer. It reminds us of the importance of generous and obedient worship. Just as the Israelites brought their best to dedicate the Tabernacle, believers are called to dedicate themselves and their resources to God's service with a willing heart. The peace offering powerfully foreshadows the ultimate peace and reconciliation we have through Jesus Christ, who is our ultimate sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10). Through Him, God made peace between heaven and earth, allowing us to enter into true fellowship with God. The unity seen in the offerings of the tribal leaders also serves as a model for the church, emphasizing the importance of corporate worship and harmonious service within the body of Christ.

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Cross-References

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