Numbers 7:11
And the LORD said unto Moses, They shall offer their offering, each prince on his day, for the dedicating of the altar.
Original Language Analysis
יְהוָ֖ה
And the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֖ה
And the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 15
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
נָשִׂ֤יא
prince
H5387
נָשִׂ֤יא
prince
Strong's:
H5387
Word #:
5 of 15
properly, an exalted one, i.e., a king or sheik; also a rising mist
לַיּ֔וֹם
on his day
H3117
לַיּ֔וֹם
on his day
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
7 of 15
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
נָשִׂ֤יא
prince
H5387
נָשִׂ֤יא
prince
Strong's:
H5387
Word #:
8 of 15
properly, an exalted one, i.e., a king or sheik; also a rising mist
לַיּ֔וֹם
on his day
H3117
לַיּ֔וֹם
on his day
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
10 of 15
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
יַקְרִ֙יבוּ֙
They shall offer
H7126
יַקְרִ֙יבוּ֙
They shall offer
Strong's:
H7126
Word #:
11 of 15
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
12 of 15
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
קָרְבָּנָ֔ם
their offering
H7133
קָרְבָּנָ֔ם
their offering
Strong's:
H7133
Word #:
13 of 15
something brought near the altar, i.e., a sacrificial present
Historical Context
The tabernacle dedication lasted twelve days beyond its initial anointing and consecration. Each day, a different tribal leader presented identical offerings, demonstrating both tribal unity (same gifts) and tribal identity (each tribe participating). This public display reinforced tribal structure while emphasizing national unity under God.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the principle of order in worship challenge both rigid formalism and chaotic informality?
- What does the extended dedication period teach about sustained focus on consecration rather than one-time events?
- In what ways does allowing each leader his own day balance unity with respect for individual participation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The instruction that one prince per day would offer demonstrates orderly worship and prevents chaos or competition. Spreading the offerings over twelve days allowed each tribal leader to present his gift with proper ceremony and attention. This reflects the Reformed principle of decency and order in worship—God is not honored by confusion or haste but by thoughtful, orderly service. The daily pattern also created anticipation and sustained focus on dedication for an extended period.