What is the meaning of Numbers 7:29? The Peace Offering - The “peace offering” (Leviticus 3) celebrated restored fellowship with God. After the altar’s dedication, each tribal leader presented the same gift, showing that peace with the LORD is available equally to all His people (Romans 5:1; Ephesians 2:14). - Unlike the burnt offering that was wholly consumed, the peace offering was shared: a portion burned for God, another for the priest, the rest enjoyed by the giver (Leviticus 7:15). It pictured communion—God, priest, and worshipper at one table. Two Oxen - Oxen were the costliest animals in an agrarian society, symbolizing strength and service (Proverbs 14:4; Psalm 144:14). - By offering two, Eliab acknowledged God’s sovereignty over the tribe’s labor and prosperity (Deuteronomy 8:18). - Oxen also foreshadow the ultimate strong sacrifice—Christ bearing the yoke of our sin (Isaiah 53:4–6; Matthew 11:28-30). Five Rams - Rams often represent substitutionary atonement (Genesis 22:13) and consecration (Leviticus 8:22). - The repeated number five, associated with grace in Scripture (e.g., the five Levitical offerings, Exodus 26:3 ff.), underscores that fellowship with God rests on His unmerited favor. - Rams’ horns picture power and authority; laying them on the altar confessed that true authority belongs to the LORD (Psalm 75:10). Five Male Goats - Goats were standard sin offerings for leaders and the congregation (Leviticus 4:23-24; 16:15). - Presenting five reinforces that sin’s debt is fully covered, paving the way for peace (Colossians 1:20). - The scapegoat of the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:21-22) pointed ahead to Jesus “made sin for us” (2 Corinthians 5:21). Five Male Lambs a Year Old - Unblemished year-old lambs recall the Passover (Exodus 12:5) and daily burnt offerings (Numbers 28:3-4). - Their innocence highlights the purity God requires and that only a perfect substitute—ultimately “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29)—could satisfy Him. - Offering five stresses abundance; God’s provision is more than adequate (Psalm 23:5). Eliab Son of Helon - Eliab led the tribe of Zebulun, encamped on the east side with Judah and Issachar (Numbers 2:7). - On the third day (Numbers 7:24-30) he brought the identical offering others would bring, illustrating unity among the tribes (Ephesians 4:3-6). - Zebulun’s later blessing promised prosperity “by the seas” (Deuteronomy 33:18-19); Eliab’s lavish gift anticipates that blessing, surrendering future gain to the LORD first (Proverbs 3:9-10). summary Numbers 7:29 records Eliab’s portion of the dedication offerings: a complete, costly, and carefully ordered set of sacrifices. Each element—from the peace offering itself to the specific numbers and animals—points to God’s gracious provision for fellowship through substitutionary sacrifice and anticipates the perfect peace secured by Jesus Christ. |
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