Numbers 7:60

On the ninth day Abidan the son of Gideoni, prince of the children of Benjamin, [offered]:

On the ninth {H8671} day {H3117} Abidan {H27} the son {H1121} of Gideoni {H1441}, prince {H5387} of the children {H1121} of Benjamin {H1144}, offered:

On the ninth day was Avidan the son of Gid'oni, leader of the descendants of Binyamin.

On the ninth day Abidan son of Gideoni, the leader of the Benjamites, drew near.

On the ninth day Abidan the son of Gideoni, prince of the children of Benjamin:

Commentary

Numbers 7:60 is a specific entry within a longer, highly detailed chapter that meticulously records the offerings brought by the leaders of each of the twelve Israelite tribes for the dedication of the Tabernacle. This verse highlights the offering made "On the ninth day" by "Abidan the son of Gideoni, prince of the children of Benjamin."

Context

Chapter 7 of Numbers is unique in its repetitive nature, recording identical offerings from each tribal prince over twelve consecutive days. This particular verse marks the contribution of the tribe of Benjamin, led by Abidan. The entire chapter serves as a testament to the completion of the Tabernacle's construction and its subsequent anointing, as described at the chapter's opening (Numbers 7:1). Each prince presented the same set of items: silver chargers, a silver bowl, a gold spoon filled with incense, a bullock, a ram, a lamb for a burnt offering, a kid of the goats for a sin offering, and various animals for a peace offering. The specific details of these offerings are first laid out in Numbers 7:12-17 and then repeated for each subsequent day's offering.

Key Themes

  • Obedience and Order: The meticulous recording of each offering underscores the Israelites' exact adherence to God's commands regarding the Tabernacle's dedication. This demonstrates the importance of obedience to divine instructions in their wilderness journey and worship.
  • Unity in Worship: Despite being distinct tribes with their own leaders and territories, all participated in a unified act of worship and dedication, presenting identical offerings. This symbolized their collective commitment to God and the central role of the Tabernacle in their national identity.
  • Willing Sacrifice: These elaborate offerings were significant acts of devotion, reflecting the willingness of the people and their leaders to contribute generously to God's house and service. It highlights the principle of giving from a cheerful heart.
  • God's Presence: The dedication of the Tabernacle, marked by these offerings, was crucial for establishing the dwelling place of God among His people, signifying His constant presence and guidance.

Linguistic Insights

The names "Abidan" (ืึฒื‘ึดื™ื“ึธืŸ) means "my father is judge" or "father of judgment," and "Gideoni" (ื’ึดึผื“ึฐืขึนื ึดื™) means "hewer" or "feller" (similar to Gideon). These names, like many in the Old Testament, carried significant meaning, often reflecting family heritage or hopes. The KJV's simple phrase "[offered]" is understood from the context of the preceding verses, where the specific details of the offerings are listed.

Practical Application

Numbers 7:60, and the chapter as a whole, reminds us that faithfulness to God often involves consistent, sometimes repetitive, acts of obedience and worship. It teaches us about the value of:

  • Faithfulness in Routine: Just as each prince faithfully brought the same offering day after day, our spiritual lives often involve consistent disciplines like prayer, Bible reading, and corporate worship.
  • Community Contribution: Every member and leader has a role to play in the collective worship and work of God's people, contributing their part for the greater good.
  • Heartfelt Giving: The lavishness of the offerings, though commanded, also speaks to a heart willing to give its best to God, not just out of obligation but out of devotion.
This verse, though brief, points to the broader narrative of Israel's journey of faith, marked by divine instruction, human obedience, and the establishment of sacred space for encountering God.

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Cross-References

  • Numbers 1:11 (5 votes)

    Of Benjamin; Abidan the son of Gideoni.

  • Numbers 2:22 (3 votes)

    Then the tribe of Benjamin: and the captain of the sons of Benjamin [shall be] Abidan the son of Gideoni.