Numbers 7:41 - and for the sacrifice of peace offerings, two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old: this was the offering of Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai.

Generated Verse: Numbers 7:41

What does "Numbers 7:41" mean?


This verse describes part of the offerings brought by Shelumiel, son of Zurishaddai, one of the leaders of the tribes of Israel, at the dedication of the Tabernacle. Let's break it down:

"and for the sacrifice of peace offerings": This is the type of offering being presented. Peace offerings (also sometimes called fellowship offerings) were voluntary sacrifices offered to God. They were a form of thanksgiving, fellowship with God, and celebration. A portion of the sacrifice was burned on the altar for God, a portion was given to the priests, and the remainder was eaten by the offerer and their family and friends.

"two head of cattle, five rams, five male goats, and five male lambs a year old": This lists the specific animals offered as the peace offering and how many of each. All the animals are male and one year old, likely indicating that they were considered to be at their prime. Each leader offered the same assortment and quantity of animals.

"this was the offering of Shelumiel the son of Zurishaddai": This identifies the person making the offering. Shelumiel was the leader of the tribe of Simeon (Numbers 1:6, 2:12). The phrase highlights that this specific set of offerings was presented by him.

Significance and Context:

Dedication of the Tabernacle: This passage is part of a larger narrative (Numbers 7) describing the offerings brought by the leaders of each tribe to dedicate the Tabernacle after it was completed.
Equal Offering: Each of the twelve tribal leaders brought the same set of offerings (although on different days). This likely signifies the equal standing and importance of each tribe before God.
Completeness of the Offering: The peace offering, alongside the other offerings mentioned earlier in the chapter (a silver platter, a silver bowl, a gold dish, a young bull, a ram, and a male lamb), represents a comprehensive and generous offering to God at this significant event.
Symbolism: The peace offering, in general, symbolizes reconciliation, fellowship, and gratitude towards God. It indicates a desire for a closer relationship with the Divine.

In essence, the verse describes the specific animals offered by Shelumiel, the leader of the tribe of Simeon, as part of the peace offering during the dedication of the Tabernacle. It signifies his tribe's participation in this important event and their desire to seek fellowship and peace with God.

What categories does "Numbers 7:41" have?