Numbers 7:17
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 Nahshon the son of Amminadab.
Original Language Analysis
וּלְזֶ֣בַח
And for a sacrifice
H2077
וּלְזֶ֣בַח
And for a sacrifice
Strong's:
H2077
Word #:
1 of 17
properly, a slaughter, i.e., the flesh of an animal; by implication, a sacrifice (the victim or the act)
הַשְּׁלָמִים֮
of peace offerings
H8002
הַשְּׁלָמִים֮
of peace offerings
Strong's:
H8002
Word #:
2 of 17
properly, requital, i.e., a (voluntary) sacrifice in thanks
בָּקָ֣ר
oxen
H1241
בָּקָ֣ר
oxen
Strong's:
H1241
Word #:
3 of 17
a beeve or an animal of the ox family of either gender (as used for plowing); collectively, a herd
אֵילִ֤ם
rams
H352
אֵילִ֤ם
rams
Strong's:
H352
Word #:
5 of 17
properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree
עַתּוּדִ֣ים
he goats
H6260
עַתּוּדִ֣ים
he goats
Strong's:
H6260
Word #:
7 of 17
prepared, i.e., full grown; spoken only (in plural) of he-goats, or (figuratively) leaders of the people
בֶּן
of the first
H1121
בֶּן
of the first
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
10 of 17
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
קָרְבַּ֥ן
this was the offering
H7133
קָרְבַּ֥ן
this was the offering
Strong's:
H7133
Word #:
14 of 17
something brought near the altar, i.e., a sacrificial present
Historical Context
Peace offerings were unique in that they created fellowship meals eaten in the tabernacle courtyard in God's presence. The fat was burned as the Lord's portion, choice portions went to the priests, and the bulk was eaten by the offerer and his family within a prescribed time. These offerings transformed worship into feast, celebrating God's provision and blessing.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the fellowship meal aspect of peace offerings enrich our understanding of communion and the Lord's Supper?
- What does the abundance of the peace offerings teach about joy in God's presence?
- In what ways should celebration and feasting be incorporated into Christian worship alongside solemnity?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The peace offerings of oxen, rams, goats, and lambs constituted a feast celebrated in God's presence. These offerings were partially burned on the altar, partially given to the priests, and partially eaten by the offerer, symbolizing communion with God and community. The variety and number of animals (seven total) indicate abundant provision for celebration. This reflects the Reformed understanding that God is glorified not only in our sacrifices but in our joy and fellowship in His presence. Worship includes both solemnity and celebration.