Numbers 7:61

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

Study Bible

His offering was one silver platter weighing a hundred and thirty shekels
In the context of Numbers 7, the leaders of the tribes of Israel brought offerings for the dedication of the altar. The silver platter, a significant and valuable item, symbolizes the wealth and dedication of the tribe. The weight of one hundred and thirty shekels, using the sanctuary shekel, indicates a standardized measure used in the tabernacle, ensuring fairness and consistency. This offering reflects the importance of giving one's best to God, a principle seen throughout Scripture, such as in the offerings of Abel (Genesis 4:4) and the widow's mite (Mark 12:41-44).

and one silver bowl weighing seventy shekels
The silver bowl, like the platter, was a valuable item, further emphasizing the tribe's commitment and reverence. The specific weight of seventy shekels again highlights the use of the sanctuary shekel, a unit of measure that was likely heavier than the common shekel, underscoring the substantial nature of the offering. This act of giving parallels the New Testament teaching of sacrificial giving, as seen in 2 Corinthians 9:7, where believers are encouraged to give generously and cheerfully.

both according to the sanctuary shekel
The sanctuary shekel was a standard of weight used in the tabernacle, ensuring that all offerings were measured equally. This standardization reflects God's desire for order and fairness in worship, as seen in Leviticus 19:36, where just balances and weights are commanded. The use of the sanctuary shekel also points to the centrality of the tabernacle in Israel's worship and community life, foreshadowing the role of Christ as the center of Christian worship and life (John 4:23-24).

and filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering
The grain offering, consisting of fine flour mixed with oil, was a common offering in the Levitical system, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving to God. The use of fine flour indicates the quality and purity expected in offerings, pointing to the purity required in worship and service to God. The oil, often a symbol of the Holy Spirit, suggests the anointing and presence of God in the offering. This offering prefigures Christ, the Bread of Life (John 6:35), who offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice, fulfilling the requirements of the law and providing spiritual sustenance for believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ahiezer
- The leader of the tribe of Dan, who presented the offering on the tenth day.

2. Tribe of Dan
- One of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its role in the settlement of the Promised Land.

3. Tabernacle
- The portable dwelling place for the divine presence, where offerings were made.

4. Sanctuary Shekel
- A standard unit of weight used in the tabernacle for offerings.

5. Grain Offering
- A type of offering made to God, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order and Obedience
The structured presentation of offerings by each tribe underscores the importance of order and obedience in worship. Each leader followed God's instructions precisely, reflecting a heart of submission and reverence.

Symbolism of the Grain Offering
The grain offering, made of fine flour and oil, symbolizes dedication and thanksgiving. It reminds believers of the need to offer their best to God, not just in material terms but in their daily lives and actions.

Unity in Diversity
Each tribe brought similar offerings, yet each was unique in its presentation. This reflects the unity and diversity within the body of Christ, where each member contributes uniquely to the whole.

Generosity and Sacrifice
The weight and value of the offerings indicate a significant sacrifice. This teaches believers about the importance of generosity and the willingness to give sacrificially to God's work.

The Role of Leadership in Worship
Ahiezer, as a leader, set an example for his tribe. This highlights the responsibility of leaders to guide their communities in faithful worship and service to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the structured order of offerings in Numbers 7 reflect God's character and expectations for worship?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the grain offering be applied to our daily lives and spiritual practices?

3. How does the concept of unity in diversity, as seen in the offerings of the tribes, apply to the modern church?

4. What lessons can we learn from the sacrificial nature of the offerings about our own giving and generosity?

5. How can leaders today emulate the example of Ahiezer in guiding their communities in worship and service?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:9
- This verse describes the pattern of the tabernacle, connecting to the offerings made for its service.

Leviticus 2:1-16
- Details the grain offering, providing context for the type of offering Ahiezer presented.

Hebrews 9:1-5
- Discusses the earthly sanctuary, connecting the Old Testament tabernacle to New Testament teachings.

1 Chronicles 12:35
- Mentions the tribe of Dan, highlighting its role and contributions to Israel.