Topical Bible: Rings: Numbers of, Taken from Midianites

◄ Rings: Numbers of, Taken from Midianites ►

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In the biblical narrative, rings hold significant cultural and symbolic value, often representing authority, wealth, and covenantal relationships. The account of the Israelites taking rings from the Midianites is a notable event that underscores the spoils of war and the subsequent dedication of these items to the Lord.

The context of this event is found in the Book of Numbers, specifically in Numbers 31. The Israelites, under the leadership of Moses, were commanded by God to take vengeance on the Midianites for their role in leading Israel into idolatry and immorality at Peor (Numbers 25). This military campaign resulted in a decisive victory for the Israelites.

Following the battle, the Israelites collected the spoils of war, which included a significant number of gold rings. Numbers 31:50 records the offering of these items: "So we have brought as an offering to the LORD the gold articles each of us acquired—armlets, bracelets, rings, earrings, and necklaces—to make atonement for ourselves before the LORD."

The passage highlights the voluntary nature of this offering, as the Israelite soldiers sought to make atonement and express gratitude for their victory. The gold collected, including the rings, was presented to Moses and Eleazar the priest as a contribution to the Lord. Numbers 31:51-52 further details the collection: "Moses and Eleazar the priest received from them all the articles made of gold, all the armlets, bracelets, rings, earrings, and necklaces. All the gold from the commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds that Moses and Eleazar presented as a gift to the LORD weighed 16,750 shekels."

The substantial weight of the gold, amounting to 16,750 shekels, underscores the wealth acquired from the Midianites and the magnitude of the offering. This act of dedication was not only a gesture of thanksgiving but also served as a means of purification and atonement for the warriors, acknowledging God's role in their triumph.

The narrative of the rings taken from the Midianites illustrates the broader biblical theme of consecrating the spoils of war to God, recognizing His sovereignty and provision. It also reflects the Israelites' understanding of the need for atonement and the importance of dedicating their gains to the service of the Lord.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 31:50
We have therefore brought an oblation for the LORD, what every man has gotten, of jewels of gold, chains, and bracelets, rings, earrings, and tablets, to make an atonement for our souls before the LORD.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

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/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
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/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm