Numbers 7:47

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 Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

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 Eliasaph {H460} the son {H1121} of Deuel {H1845}.

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 Elyasaf the son of De'u'el.

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

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 Eliasaph the son of Deuel.

Commentary

Context of Numbers 7:47

Numbers chapter 7 provides a detailed account of the offerings brought by the leaders (princes) of the twelve tribes of Israel for the dedication of the Tabernacle. This grand ceremony occurred after the Tabernacle's construction and consecration, as described in Exodus 40. Each day for twelve days, a different tribal leader presented an identical set of gifts, emphasizing the unity and collective participation of the entire nation in worship. Verse 47 specifically records the contribution of Eliasaph the son of Deuel, who was the leader of the tribe of Gad, on the seventh day of these dedication ceremonies.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Generosity and Obedience: The substantial nature of Eliasaph's offering, like those of the other princes, demonstrates a profound commitment and generosity. It reflects the Israelites' obedience to God's commands for the Tabernacle's service.
  • Unity and Order: The identical nature of the offerings from each tribal leader highlights the unity of the twelve tribes under God's covenant. This systematic approach underscored the divine order in Israel's worship and national life.
  • Fellowship and Peace with God: The primary focus of Eliasaph's offering in this verse is the "sacrifice of peace offerings." These were voluntary offerings that expressed gratitude, celebrated blessings, or fulfilled vows. They symbolized communion and fellowship between God and the worshiper, as a portion was consumed by the priests and the worshiper after being presented to God. This act brought a sense of reconciliation and peace with God.
  • Dedication to Divine Service: The entire chapter, including Eliasaph's contribution, underscores the dedication of the Tabernacle as a sacred space for God's presence and for the worship of the Israelite community.

Linguistic Insights

The term "peace offerings" translates the Hebrew phrase zevach sh'lamim (ื–ึถื‘ึทื— ืฉึฐืืœึธืžึดื™ื). The root word, shalom, means much more than just the absence of conflict; it encompasses wholeness, completeness, well-being, and harmony. Thus, a peace offering was not just about making peace, but about celebrating a state of complete well-being and fellowship with God. It was an offering of thanksgiving, emphasizing a restored or vibrant relationship with the divine.

Significance and Application

Numbers 7:47, within the broader context of the Tabernacle's dedication, teaches us several enduring truths:

  • The Value of Giving Our Best: Eliasaph's offering was significant, reflecting the principle of giving one's best to God. This applies to our time, talents, and resources, all dedicated to God's service.
  • Communal Worship: The collective and unified offerings of the tribes emphasize the importance of corporate worship and shared dedication in the community of faith.
  • Desire for Fellowship: The peace offering highlights God's desire for fellowship with His people. While animal sacrifices are no longer required, the ultimate "peace offering" is Jesus Christ, who through His sacrifice provides true reconciliation and peace with God for all who believe.
  • Order in Worship: The meticulous detail of these offerings underscores that worship should be intentional, ordered, and reverent, reflecting the holiness of God.
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Cross-References

No cross-references found.