Numbers 7:65

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 Abidan the son of Gideoni.

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 Abidan {H27} the son {H1121} of Gideoni {H1441}.

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 Avidan the son of Gid'oni.

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

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 Abidan the son of Gideoni.

Commentary

Numbers 7:65 concludes the detailed account of the offering brought by Abidan the son of Gideoni, representing the tribe of Benjamin, during the dedication of the newly erected Tabernacle. This verse specifically lists the animals designated for the peace offerings, highlighting the generosity and spiritual significance of the contributions from each tribal leader.

Historical and Cultural Context

The Book of Numbers meticulously records the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. Chapter 7 is a unique and extensive record, dedicating an entire chapter to the dedication of the Tabernacle, which had just been completed and consecrated (as detailed in Exodus 40:33). For twelve consecutive days, each tribal leader presented identical sets of gifts for the Tabernacle service, along with specific animal sacrifices. Abidan's offering, described in verses 60-65, was presented on the ninth day, underscoring the collective effort and organization in Israelite worship. The tribe of Benjamin, though later known for King Saul and a smaller population, was a significant part of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Generous Giving: The sheer quantity and variety of animals (two oxen, five rams, five he-goats, five lambs) for just the peace offerings demonstrate the immense value placed on worship and the willingness of the leaders to give substantial gifts to God. This was a pattern of giving one's best.
  • Fellowship and Communion: The primary purpose of the peace offerings (Hebrew: zevahim sh'lamim, often translated as "offerings of wholeness" or "fellowship offerings") was to express gratitude, vow fulfillment, or freewill devotion, culminating in a communal meal shared by the offerer, priests, and sometimes others. This symbolized peace and communion between God and His people, and among the people themselves.
  • Order and Unity: The systematic approach to the offerings, with each tribe presenting the exact same items over consecutive days, illustrates the divine order established for Israel's worship and the unity among the tribes in their devotion to God.

Linguistic Insights

The term "peace offerings" comes from the Hebrew root shalom (שָׁלֹם), which means more than just the absence of conflict. It encompasses concepts of completeness, wholeness, well-being, prosperity, and harmony. Therefore, these offerings were not merely about appeasing God, but about establishing and celebrating a state of shalom – a right and flourishing relationship with God and with one another. Unlike sin or burnt offerings, a portion of the peace offering was returned to the worshiper to be eaten, emphasizing the shared meal aspect of fellowship.

Practical Application

Numbers 7:65, and the broader context of the Tabernacle dedication, offers timeless principles for believers today:

  • Worship with Generosity: Just as Abidan and the other leaders gave lavishly, our worship should involve giving our best, not just financially, but also our time, talents, and devotion. This reflects a heart of gratitude and trust in God's provision (2 Corinthians 9:7).
  • Value Fellowship: The peace offering's emphasis on shared meals and communion reminds us of the importance of fellowship within the community of faith. Our gatherings, whether for worship or shared meals, should foster peace and strengthen bonds with God and fellow believers.
  • Pursue Wholeness (Shalom): The concept of shalom encourages us to seek holistic well-being in our relationship with God and others. Our spiritual practices should aim to bring us into a state of peace and completeness through Christ, who is our ultimate peace.
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Cross-References

No cross-references found.