What is the meaning of Numbers 7:47? And a peace offering “and a peace offering…” (Numbers 7:47) • The peace, or fellowship, offering signified restored harmony between God and His people (Leviticus 3:1). • Unlike the burnt offering, portions were eaten by worshipers, picturing communion with the Lord (Leviticus 7:15). • In Christ, “He Himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14), fulfilling what these sacrifices anticipated. Of two oxen • Oxen were the largest, costliest animals—an act of costly devotion (2 Samuel 24:24). • Their strength symbolized service and endurance (Proverbs 14:4). • Blood from sizable animals vividly foreshadowed the sufficiency of Jesus’ once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 9:12). Five rams • Rams were linked with consecration; Aaron and his sons were ordained with a ram (Exodus 29:22). • Five often marks grace; the multitude of fives here highlights God’s abundant favor (Romans 5:17). • Rams’ horns later announced Jubilee (Leviticus 25:9), hinting at freedom found in Christ (Luke 4:18-19). Five male goats • Goats served in sin and Day of Atonement rituals (Leviticus 16:5). • Their inclusion underscores atonement alongside fellowship. • The number five again stresses overflowing grace, as the Lord “does not treat us as our sins deserve” (Psalm 103:10). Five male lambs a year old • Year-old males were prime, flawless (Exodus 12:5). • Every lamb pointed to “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). • Repetition of five invites the worshiper to dwell on God’s multiplied mercy (Titus 3:5-6). This was the offering of Eliasaph son of Deuel • Eliasaph represented the tribe of Gad (Numbers 2:14). Gad’s name means “good fortune,” reminding us that blessing flows from obedience (Deuteronomy 28:2). • Each tribal leader brought identical gifts (Numbers 7:10-11), showing impartiality and unity before the Lord (Acts 10:34-35). • Eliasaph’s faithfulness echoes the call: “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). summary Numbers 7:47 records Gad’s leader bringing a peace offering rich in variety and generosity. Two oxen, five rams, five goats, and five lambs proclaimed costly devotion, consecration, atonement, and grace, all culminating in fellowship with God. Together they foreshadow the perfect, all-sufficient work of Christ, inviting believers to worship with thankful, wholehearted surrender. |
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