Numbers 7 The Consecration of the Tabernacle and the Ordination of the Priests

1 Offerings at the Dedication of the Tabernacle
When Moses finished setting up the tabernacle, he anointed it and consecrated it and all its furnishings. He also anointed and consecrated the altar and all its utensils.

2 Then the leaders of Israel, the heads of families who were the tribal leaders in charge of those who were counted, made offerings.

3 They brought as their gifts before the Lord six covered carts and twelve oxen—an ox from each leader and a cart from every two. These they presented before the tabernacle.

4 The Lord said to Moses,

5 “Accept these from them, that they may be used in the work at the Tent of Meeting. Give them to the Levites as each man’s work requires.”

6 So Moses took the carts and oxen and gave them to the Levites.

7 He gave two carts and four oxen to the Gershonites, as their work required,

8 and he gave four carts and eight oxen to the Merarites, as their work required. They were all under the direction of Ithamar son of Aaron, the priest.

9 But Moses did not give any to the Kohathites, because they were to carry on their shoulders the holy things, for which they were responsible.

10 When the altar was anointed, the leaders brought their offerings for its dedication and presented them before the altar.

11 For the Lord had said to Moses, “Each day one leader is to bring his offering for the dedication of the altar.”

12 The one who brought his offering on the first day was Nahshon son of Amminadab of the tribe of Judah.

13 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;

14 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

15 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;

16 one male goat for a sin offering;

17 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old, to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Nahshon son of Amminadab.

18 On the second day Nethanel son of Zuar, the leader of Issachar, brought his offering.

19 The offering he brought was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;

20 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

21 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;

22 one male goat for a sin offering;

23 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old, to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Nethanel son of Zuar.

24 On the third day, Eliab son of Helon, the leader of the people of Zebulun, brought his offering.

25 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;

26 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

27 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;

28 one male goat for a sin offering;

29 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old, to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Eliab son of Helon.

30 On the fourth day Elizur son of Shedeur, the leader of the people of Reuben, brought his offering.

31 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;

32 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

33 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;

34 one male goat for a sin offering;

35 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old, to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Elizur son of Shedeur.

36 On the fifth day Shelumiel son of Zurishaddai, the leader of the people of Simeon, brought his offering.

37 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;

38 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

39 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;

40 one male goat for a sin offering;

41 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old, to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Shelumiel son of Zurishaddai.

42 On the sixth day Eliasaph son of Deuel, the leader of the people of Gad, brought his offering.

43 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;

44 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

45 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;

46 one male goat for a sin offering;

47 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old, to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Eliasaph son of Deuel.

48 On the seventh day Elishama son of Ammihud, the leader of the people of Ephraim, brought his offering.

49 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;

50 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

51 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;

52 one male goat for a sin offering;

53 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old, to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Elishama son of Ammihud.

54 On the eighth day Gamaliel son of Pedahzur, the leader of the people of Manasseh, brought his offering.

55 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;

56 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

57 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;

58 one male goat for a sin offering;

59 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old, to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Gamaliel son of Pedahzur.

60 On the ninth day Abidan son of Gideoni, the leader of the people of Benjamin, brought his offering.

61 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;

62 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

63 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;

64 one male goat for a sin offering;

65 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old, to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Abidan son of Gideoni.

66 On the tenth day Ahiezer son of Ammishaddai, the leader of the people of Dan, brought his offering.

67 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;

68 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

69 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;

70 one male goat for a sin offering;

71 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old, to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Ahiezer son of Ammishaddai.

72 On the eleventh day Pagiel son of Ocran, the leader of the people of Asher, brought his offering.

73 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;

74 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

75 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;

76 one male goat for a sin offering;

77 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old, to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Pagiel son of Ocran.

78 On the twelfth day Ahira son of Enan, the leader of the people of Naphtali, brought his offering.

79 His offering was one silver plate weighing a hundred and thirty shekels, and one silver sprinkling bowl weighing seventy shekels, both according to the sanctuary shekel, each filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering;

80 one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

81 one young bull, one ram and one male lamb a year old, for a burnt offering;

82 one male goat for a sin offering;

83 and two oxen, five rams, five male goats and five male lambs a year old, to be sacrificed as a fellowship offering. This was the offering of Ahira son of Enan.

84 These were the offerings of the Israelite leaders for the dedication of the altar when it was anointed: twelve silver plates, twelve silver sprinkling bowls and twelve gold dishes.

85 Each silver plate weighed a hundred and thirty shekels, and each sprinkling bowl seventy shekels. Altogether, the silver dishes weighed two thousand four hundred shekels, according to the sanctuary shekel.

86 The twelve gold dishes filled with incense weighed ten shekels each, according to the sanctuary shekel. Altogether, the gold dishes weighed a hundred and twenty shekels.

87 The total number of animals for the burnt offering came to twelve young bulls, twelve rams and twelve male lambs a year old, together with their grain offering. Twelve male goats were used for the sin offering.

88 The total number of animals for the sacrifice of the fellowship offering came to twenty-four oxen, sixty rams, sixty male goats and sixty male lambs a year old. These were the offerings for the dedication of the altar after it was anointed.

89 When Moses entered the Tent of Meeting to speak with the Lord, he heard the voice speaking to him from between the two cherubim above the atonement cover on the ark of the Testimony. And he spoke with him.

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Analysis of Numbers Chapter 7

Numbers Chapter 7 is one of the longer chapters in the Book of Numbers, comprising 89 verses. It provides a detailed account of the offerings brought by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel at the dedication of the altar. The chapter emphasizes themes of leadership, community participation, dedication to God, and obedience to His commands. Let’s explore this chapter in greater detail to understand its significance and messages.

Overview of the Chapter

The chapter can be divided into several sections:

The setting and context (verses 1-3)
The offerings from individual tribal leaders (verses 4-83)
The summary and Moses’ communion with God at the Tabernacle (verses 84-89)

The Setting and Context (Verses 1-3)

The chapter begins with setting the context:

“When Moses finished setting up the tabernacle, he anointed it and consecrated it and all its furnishings. He also anointed and consecrated the altar and all its utensils. Then the leaders of Israel, the heads of their families who were the tribal leaders in charge of those who were counted, made offerings.” (Numbers 7:1-2)

These verses establish that the events occur shortly after Moses had completed the setting up and consecration of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The mention of anointing and consecration highlights the sacredness of the occasion. The leaders of the tribes, representing their people, are now coming forward with offerings. This involvement of the leaders showcases the importance of collective responsibility and acknowledgment of God’s presence among them.

The Offerings from Individual Tribal Leaders (Verses 4-83)

From verses 4 to 83, the text meticulously records the offerings brought by each tribal leader. Each day for twelve days, a different leader brings his offerings:

Day 1: Nahshon, son of Amminadab, leader of the tribe of Judah
Day 2: Nethanel, son of Zuar, leader of the tribe of Issachar
Day 3: Eliab, son of Helon, leader of the tribe of Zebulun
Day 4: Elizur, son of Shedeur, leader of the tribe of Reuben
Day 5: Shelumiel, son of Zurishaddai, leader of the tribe of Simeon
Day 6: Eliasaph, son of Deuel, leader of the tribe of Gad
Day 7: Elishama, son of Ammihud, leader of the tribe of Ephraim
Day 8: Gamaliel, son of Pedahzur, leader of the tribe of Manasseh
Day 9: Abidan, son of Gideoni, leader of the tribe of Benjamin
Day 10: Ahiezer, son of Ammishaddai, leader of the tribe of Dan
Day 11: Pagiel, son of Okran, leader of the tribe of Asher
Day 12: Ahira, son of Enan, leader of the tribe of Naphtali

Each offering included:

One silver plate weighing 130 shekels
One silver basin weighing 70 shekels, both filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering
One gold dish weighing 10 shekels, filled with incense
One young bull, one ram, and one male lamb a year old as a burnt offering
One male goat for a sin offering
Two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old as a fellowship offering

The repetition of the offerings for each tribe signifies the uniformity of worship and devotion across the tribe, showcasing their equality before God. Each tribe and its leader mirror each other’s contributions in a communal display of obedience and reverence. It is worth noting that the offerings are not diminished or altered based on the leader’s status or the tribe’s size, emphasizing the principle of equal standing in the eyes of God.

The recording of the names and specific details illustrates the importance of each individual’s contribution, creating a sense of inclusivity and shared responsibility. Each tribe’s participation underscores the communal aspect of worship in ancient Israel, bringing the whole community together under divine ordinance. The detailed enumeration also reminds the readers of the value of orderly worship and the necessity of adhering strictly to God’s instructions.

The Summary and Moses’ Communion with God at the Tabernacle (Verses 84-89)

After listing all the individual offerings, the chapter concludes with a summary:

“These were the offerings of the Israelite leaders for the dedication of the altar when it was anointed: twelve silver plates, twelve silver basins, and twelve gold dishes.” (Numbers 7:84)

The summary reiterates the total number of plates, basins, and dishes, emphasizing the orderly presentation and completeness of the offerings. This section also includes a recapitulation of the weights and the contents, ensuring the reader understands the significance of the offerings made by each leader.

One of the most important verses in this chapter comes at the very end:

“When Moses entered the tent of meeting to speak with the LORD, he heard the voice speaking to him from between the two cherubim above the atonement cover on the ark of the covenant law. In this way, the LORD spoke to him.” (Numbers 7:89)

This verse signifies the ultimate purpose of the offerings and the entire ritual—the establishment of genuine communication with God. By describing Moses’ communion with God, the text underlines the successful consecration and acceptance of the altar and the Tabernacle. What started with the people’s offerings culminates in a divine response, highlighting the reciprocal relationship between God and His people.

Deeper Insight and Interpretation

Significance of the Tribal Leaders

The detailed mention of the tribal leaders by name and lineage underlines their importance within the community and before God. Their role isn’t just as administrative heads but also as spiritual representatives of their people. They lead by example, showing the significance of devout observance and submissive dedication to God’s commands. Their offering on behalf of their tribes signifies the collective commitment and willingness to worship and adhere to God’s covenant.

Symbolism of the Offerings

The offerings themselves carry deep symbolic meaning. The silver plates and basins, coupled with the precise weights, symbolize purity and consecration. The gold dishes with incense represent prayers and the presence of the divine. The animals offered for burnt, sin, and fellowship offerings reflect atonement, repentance, and communion with God.

Each material and animal used carries connotations of value, purity, and completeness. This symbolism would have conveyed to the Israelites the sanctity of their relationship with God and the necessity of approaching Him with the utmost reverence and integrity.

Unity and Cooperation

The structured and repetitive nature of the offerings from all twelve tribes conveys themes of unity and cooperation. While each tribe retains its identity, they come together in a harmonious and synchronized act of worship. This unity is fundamental in a collective faith experience, underscoring that although they are different tribes, they are one people under God. Each tribe’s participation illustrates that every member of the community has a role in the covenant relationship with God.

The Role of Moses

Moses’ role in this chapter is pivotal. While he does not bring offerings, his actions frame the narrative. Moses sets up and anoints the Tabernacle and altar, and at the conclusion, it is through Moses that God communicates with the people. This dynamic lays the foundation for Moses’ continued role as the intermediary between God and Israel. His ability to commune directly with God emphasizes the divine legitimacy of his leadership and the structure of religious and communal order.

Divine Response and Approval

The concluding verse, where Moses hears God’s voice from between the cherubim, serves not just as closure to this chapter but also as divine approval of the ceremonies conducted. It reassures the community that their efforts and offerings have been accepted by God. The physical manifestation of God’s voice signifies a tangible connection between heaven and earth, a profound affirmation that their acts of worship have met divine standards. This approval would have bolstered the people’s faith and commitment, reinforcing their covenant relationship.

Contemporary Application

While the context and specifics of Numbers Chapter 7 revolve around ancient rituals, several principles can be extrapolated and applied to contemporary faith practice:

Communal Worship and Unity

Just as the tribes of Israel collectively participated in the offerings, modern faith communities are reminded of the power of communal worship. The chapter reinforces that every individual’s contribution, no matter how seemingly small or repetitive, is significant in the eyes of God. Harmony and unity in collective worship foster a stronger, more cohesive faith community.

Value of Leadership

The leaders’ roles in bringing offerings highlight the importance of spiritual leadership. Contemporary faith leaders, much like the tribal heads, are called to lead by example, guiding their communities in acts of worship, dedication, and obedience to God. Effective spiritual leadership fosters unity, purpose, and a deeper sense of commitment within the faith community.

Obedience and Detail in Worship

The meticulous detail with which the offerings are described and the precise obedience exhibited by the leaders underscore the importance of diligence in worship today. Modern believers are reminded that worship is not to be taken lightly or rendered haphazardly. Thoughtful, deliberate acts of devotion reflect a heart genuinely aligned with God’s will and commands.

Personal and Collective Consecration

The dedication of the altar and Tabernacle signifies the setting apart of sacred space and life for God. Modern believers are called to consecrate their lives, households, and worship spaces similarly. By setting apart what is sacred and treating it with reverence, believers align themselves more closely with God’s presence and favor.

Divine Interaction and Approval

The chapter ends with God speaking to Moses, highlighting that sincere acts of worship bring believers closer to a tangible experience of God. Modern believers can find reassurance that their dedicated acts of faith and worship are acknowledged by God, paving the way for a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him.

Conclusion

Numbers Chapter 7 offers profound insights into the nature of worship, leadership, communal unity, and divine approval. It is a rich narrative that combines historical context with timeless principles applicable to contemporary faith practices. The chapter underscores the importance of detailed, heartfelt worship, collective participation, and the sanctity of leadership in maintaining a healthy, vibrant relationship with God. Modern believers can draw from this narrative a deepened understanding and appreciation of their role in the faith community and the immense value of approaching God with reverence, obedience, and unity. This ensures that, much like the Israelites, they too can experience a meaningful and fulfilling communion with the Divine.

Understanding the Key Messages in Numbers 7: Insights and Explanation

Chapter 7 of Numbers describes the consecration of the Tabernacle by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel, who bring offerings. Each tribe's leader brings the same offerings, including silver and gold articles, sacrificial animals, and flour with oil and incense. The Lord speaks to Moses from above the mercy seat, and Moses distributes the offerings to the Levites. The chapter concludes with a summary of the total offerings presented by the tribes.

Notes

This chapter highlights the significance of each tribe's contribution to the Tabernacle. The repetition of offerings emphasizes the unity and equality among the tribes in their dedication to the Lord.