“All the oxen for the burnt offering were twelve bullocks, the rams twelve, the lambs of the first year twelve, with their meat offering: and the kids of the goats for sin offering twelve.”
Context and Background:The book of Numbers is the fourth book in the Bible and primarily deals with the period of Israel’s wanderings in the wilderness. It covers various aspects of their journey, including their organisation, laws, and instructions given by God through Moses. The passage in Numbers 7:87 comes at the end of a chapter that describes the offerings presented by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel during the consecration of the altar.
Significance of the Offerings:In this verse, we see a detailed account of the offerings brought by the twelve tribal leaders. Each leader presented the same offerings, consisting of twelve bullocks (or young bulls), twelve rams, twelve lambs of the first year, and twelve kids of the goats for sin offerings. The offerings were made for the purpose of worship, atonement, and consecration.
Symbolism and Meaning:
- Twelve:The number twelve appears repeatedly in this verse, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. It signifies the unity and completeness of the nation. Each tribe had equal representation and participated in the offerings, emphasising the collective responsibility of the people before God.
- Oxen, Rams, Lambs, and Kids:These various animals represent different aspects of sacrifice and offerings in the Israelite worship system. The young bulls (oxen) were offered as burnt offerings, signifying complete surrender and dedication to God. The rams and lambs were likely used for various types of offerings, such as peace offerings, while the kids of the goats were specifically designated for sin offerings, symbolising the need for atonement.
Application and Lessons:
- Unity and Participation:The participation of each tribal leader in presenting the offerings reflects the importance of unity and collaboration within the community of believers. It serves as a reminder that every individual has a role to play in worship and service to God, contributing their unique gifts and offerings for the greater good.
- Surrender and Dedication:The burnt offerings of the young bulls highlight the concept of complete surrender and dedication to God. As believers, we are called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, surrendering our lives and will to God’s purposes (Romans 12:1). This verse reminds us of the need to offer ourselves wholly to God in worship and service.
- Atonement and Forgiveness:The sin offerings made with the kids of the goats remind us of the importance of recognising our sins and seeking forgiveness. The sacrificial system in the Old Testament foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who became the perfect and final atonement for our sins (Hebrews 10:10). It points us to the need for repentance and reliance on Jesus’ sacrifice for the forgiveness of our sins.
- Reverence and Worship:The offerings presented by the tribal leaders were acts of worship and reverence towards God. They demonstrated the acknowledgment of God’s authority and the desire to seek His favour. As believers, we are called to worship God in spirit and truth (John 4:23), offering Him our praise, thanksgiving, and obedience.
In conclusion, Numbers 7:87 presents a detailed account of the offerings brought by the tribal leaders in the context of consecrating the altar. It emphasises the unity, surrender, atonement, and reverence found in the worship and service of God. This passage reminds us of the significance of collective participation, complete dedication, and the need for forgiveness and worship in our relationship with God.
