“And Moses and Eleazar the priest took the gold of them, even all wrought jewels.”
Context: To understand the significance of Numbers 31:51, it’s important to look at the context. In Numbers 31, the Israelites were at war with the Midianites. God commanded Moses to take vengeance on the Midianites for their role in leading the Israelites into idolatry and sexual immorality. After the Israelites were victorious, they brought back spoils of war, including gold, silver, livestock, and other possessions.
Moses and Eleazar: In Numbers 31:51, it mentions that Moses and Eleazar the priest took the gold and wrought jewels. Moses was the leader of the Israelites and the one through whom God communicated His commands. Eleazar, the son of Aaron, served as the high priest after Aaron’s death. Both Moses and Eleazar held positions of authority and responsibility within the community.
The gold and jewels: The gold and wrought jewels mentioned in this verse refer to the spoils of war that the Israelites had obtained from the Midianites. These items held both material and symbolic value. Gold was considered a precious metal, and jewelry made from gold and precious stones was often associated with wealth and luxury.
Symbolic significance: The gold and jewels taken from the Midianites held a symbolic significance in this context. They represented the victory and blessing that God had given to the Israelites. The spoils of war were tangible evidence of God’s provision and His fulfillment of His promises to the Israelites. Additionally, the gold and jewels were used later in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings as offerings to the Lord.
Stewardship and offering: It is important to note that Moses and Eleazar, as leaders of the people, took responsibility for the spoils and ensured that they were used for the purposes aligned with God’s will. The gold and jewels were not hoarded or used for personal gain, but rather they became offerings dedicated to God’s service.
Lessons for us: Numbers 31:51 teaches us several lessons. Firstly, it reminds us that God is the ultimate provider of victory and blessings in our lives. All good things come from Him. Secondly, it emphasizes the importance of stewardship. We are called to be responsible stewards of the resources and blessings that God has entrusted to us. Like Moses and Eleazar, we should use what we have for God’s purposes and the advancement of His kingdom. Lastly, it highlights the act of offering. Just as the spoils of war were dedicated to God’s service, we should offer our lives, talents, and possessions as a living sacrifice to God.
