What is the meaning of Numbers 7:17? And a peace offering Numbers 7:17 begins, “and a peace offering…”. In the sacrificial system laid out in Leviticus 3 and Leviticus 7:11-15, the peace (or fellowship) offering celebrated restored relationship with God. Unlike the burnt offering that was wholly consumed, portions of the peace offering were shared in a meal, underscoring communion between the worshiper, the priest, and the LORD. Paul echoes this theme when he writes, “He Himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14), showing how the ultimate fellowship with God is realized through Christ, who “made peace through the blood of His cross” (Colossians 1:20). Numbers 7, therefore, records each tribal leader publicly affirming that peace with God is possible only on His terms. Of two oxen The verse specifies “two oxen.” Oxen were the costliest animals one could offer (1 Kings 19:19), symbolizing strength and substantial sacrifice. David refused to give God that which cost him nothing (2 Samuel 24:24), and Nahshon’s two oxen show similar devotion. The “two” likely anticipates the dual direction of the peace offering—Godward and community-ward—because reconciliation with God overflows into harmony with His people (Romans 12:18). Five rams Next come “five rams.” Rams were commonly linked to consecration (Exodus 29:15, 19) and substitution (Genesis 22:13). The number five frequently marks God’s gracious provision (as with the five Levitical offerings listed in Leviticus 1–7, or the five loaves multiplied by Jesus in Matthew 14:17-20). Thus, five rams highlight that consecration to God is grounded in His grace rather than human merit. Five male goats Goats often feature in sin and guilt offerings (Leviticus 16; 2 Chronicles 29:21), reminding Israel of the need for cleansing. Hebrews 9:13 emphasizes how “the blood of goats” pointed forward to the superior, cleansing blood of Christ. Including five goats within a peace offering reminds worshipers that fellowship with God must be preceded by atonement—graciously provided, not earned. Five male lambs a year old Finally, Nahshon offers “five male lambs a year old.” A yearling lamb was considered prime and spotless (Exodus 12:5). John the Baptist hailed Jesus as “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29), and Peter adds that believers are redeemed “with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or spot” (1 Peter 1:19). The repetition of five again spotlights grace; the lambs underscore innocence and substitution that bring lasting peace. This was the offering of Nahshon son of Amminadab Nahshon, prince of the tribe of Judah (Numbers 2:3), presents this gift on the first of twelve successive days (Numbers 7:12-17). Judah leads, fitting for the tribe from which “the scepter shall not depart” (Genesis 49:10). Nahshon appears in the Messianic lineage (Ruth 4:20-22; Matthew 1:4), so his offering anticipates the ultimate Prince of Judah, Jesus Christ. By leading the way, Nahshon models wholehearted generosity and signals that Judah’s role is to point all Israel toward God’s coming King. summary Numbers 7:17 records a peace offering of costly oxen, consecrated rams, atoning goats, and spotless lambs—an abundant, grace-saturated gift from Nahshon of Judah. Each element highlights aspects of reconciliation, substitution, and joyful fellowship with the LORD, foreshadowing the perfect peace secured through the greater Son of Judah, Jesus Christ. |
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