“And for a sacrifice of peace offerings, two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year: this was the offering of Gamaliel the son of Pedahzur.”
Context: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and it focuses on the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness. The passage you mentioned is found within a chapter that describes the offerings brought by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel for the dedication of the altar.
Offering of Peace Offerings: In Numbers 7:70, we see the offering of Gamaliel, the son of Pedahzur. He brought two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs of the first year as a sacrifice of peace offerings. Peace offerings were a type of sacrifice that symbolized fellowship and gratitude towards God. It was an expression of thanksgiving and a way to establish or restore a right relationship with God.
Significance of the Number Five: The number five appears prominently in Gamaliel’s offering. Five is a significant number in the Bible and often represents God’s grace and favor. It can also symbolize completeness or fullness. The choice of five oxen, five rams, five he goats, and five lambs may indicate the abundance and completeness of Gamaliel’s offering, reflecting his deep appreciation and devotion to God.
Gamaliel: Gamaliel, the son of Pedahzur, is mentioned as the one making the offering. While this particular Gamaliel is not the famous Gamaliel mentioned in the New Testament (Acts 5:34-40, 22:3), his name suggests that he came from a notable family. The offering he presented demonstrates his commitment to worship and his desire to honor God.
Application: The passage highlights the act of giving and offering to God. It serves as a reminder of the importance of expressing our gratitude to God for His blessings and provision in our lives. Just as Gamaliel offered his abundance in a sacrificial manner, we should also offer our resources, time, and talents to God with a sincere heart. The passage encourages us to have a spirit of generosity and thanksgiving, recognizing that everything we have comes from God.
Overall, Numbers 7:70 reveals the specific offering made by Gamaliel during the dedication of the altar. It emphasizes the significance of peace offerings, the number five, and the importance of expressing gratitude and generosity towards God.
