Numbers 7:29 (KJV)

What does Numbers 7:29 mean?

Numbers 7:29 lists the specific animals Eliab the son of Helon brought as his offering for the peace sacrifice: two oxen, five rams, five male goats, and five year-old lambs. This verse records the exact contribution Eliab made as part of a larger ceremony where each tribal leader brought offerings for the dedication of the altar.

In the context of Numbers 7, Moses is overseeing the dedication of the altar in the Tabernacle, and each leader of the twelve tribes of Israel brings a set of offerings on consecutive days. Eliab, representing the tribe of Zebulun, is named here with the details of his peace offering, showing both his participation and the uniformity of the gifts among the tribes.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 7:29

• The word for "peace offerings" is שְׁלָמִים (shelamim), which refers to sacrifices meant to express fellowship or well-being, often shared as a communal meal. This highlights the communal and celebratory aspect of Eliab's offering.
• The word for "offering" is קָרְבָּן (qorban), meaning a gift or something brought near, emphasizing that these animals are presented as a gift to God, not just a ritual requirement.
• The repeated use of the number "five" (חָמֵשׁ, chamesh) for rams, goats, and lambs underlines the careful, prescribed nature of the offerings, showing order and equality among the tribes.

Why Numbers 7:29 matters

• This verse shows that every tribal leader, including Eliab, brought the same type and number of animals, emphasizing unity and equality among the tribes in their worship.
• The detailed listing of the offerings helps the reader see the importance of obedience and attention to God's instructions in the dedication ceremony.
• By naming Eliab and his father Helon, the verse connects the offering to a specific person and tribe, grounding the ceremony in real people and reinforcing the communal aspect of Israel's worship.