one male goat for a sin offering;In the context of
Numbers 7, the leaders of Israel are bringing offerings for the dedication of the altar. The male goat as a sin offering is significant in the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites. The sin offering was a crucial part of the atonement process, symbolizing the removal of sin and impurity from the people.
The use of a male goat is consistent with Levitical law, where goats were often used for sin offerings (
Leviticus 4:23-28). This specific offering underscores the need for purification and the acknowledgment of sin before God. The male goat, being without blemish, represents the need for a perfect sacrifice to atone for sin, prefiguring the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is described as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (
John 1:29).
Culturally, the offering of a goat would have been a significant act of worship and obedience, as livestock were valuable assets. The act of sacrificing a male goat for a sin offering demonstrates the seriousness with which the Israelites were to approach their relationship with God, acknowledging their sinfulness and the need for divine forgiveness.
This offering also connects to the Day of Atonement rituals, where a goat was used as a scapegoat to symbolically carry the sins of the people into the wilderness (
Leviticus 16:10). This further illustrates the concept of substitutionary atonement, a theme that runs throughout the Old Testament and finds its fulfillment in the New Testament through Christ's sacrifice.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
NashonThe leader of the tribe of Judah, who presented the offering described in this verse. He is a significant figure in the lineage of Jesus Christ.
2.
Tribe of JudahOne of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its leadership and prominence among the tribes. Judah is often associated with kingship and prophecy.
3.
TabernacleThe portable dwelling place for the divine presence of God among the Israelites. The offerings were made in connection with the dedication of the altar in the Tabernacle.
4.
Sanctuary ShekelA standard unit of weight used in the sanctuary, ensuring that offerings were consistent and fair.
5.
Grain OfferingA type of offering made to God, consisting of fine flour mixed with oil, symbolizing dedication and thanksgiving.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Order and Structure in WorshipThe detailed description of the offerings emphasizes the importance of order and structure in worship. God values intentionality and precision in how we approach Him.
Symbolism of the Grain OfferingThe grain offering, made of fine flour and oil, symbolizes dedication and thanksgiving. It reminds us to offer our best to God, acknowledging His provision and grace.
Generosity and SacrificeThe weight and value of the offerings reflect the generosity and sacrifice required in worship. We are called to give sacrificially, not out of obligation, but out of love and reverence for God.
Leadership and ResponsibilityAs a leader, Nashon's role in presenting the offering underscores the responsibility of leaders to set an example in worship and dedication to God.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Numbers 7:16?
2.How does Numbers 7:16 illustrate the importance of offerings in worship today?
3.What can we learn about obedience from the offerings in Numbers 7:16?
4.How does Numbers 7:16 connect to New Testament teachings on sacrificial giving?
5.What does the "one male goat" symbolize in our spiritual lives today?
6.How can we apply the principle of giving from Numbers 7:16 in our lives?
7.Why does Numbers 7:16 specify a male goat for a sin offering?
8.What is the significance of the offerings listed in Numbers 7:16?
9.How does Numbers 7:16 reflect the Israelites' relationship with God?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Numbers 7?
11.Numbers 15:24-29: If unintentional sins still require sacrifices, does this conflict with the notion of a merciful God who judges intent?
12.Numbers 7:85-88: How did a nomadic community manage the massive total of precious metals and livestock described in these verses?
13.In 2 Samuel 21:5-6, why does David permit the execution of Saul's descendants if Deuteronomy 24:16 forbids punishing children for a parent's wrongdoing?
14.What role did quail play in the biblical narrative?What Does Numbers 7:16 Mean
One- The verse specifies “one,” reminding us that each tribal leader brought a single animal, not several. This underlines the sufficiency of a solitary, complete sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10).
- The singular gift also stresses unity among the twelve tribes—each offering was identical, symbolizing shared need and shared grace (Ephesians 4:5–6).
Male- Sacrifices for sin were to be male (Leviticus 4:23), pointing back to the pattern established at Passover (“Your lamb shall be an unblemished male,”Exodus 12:5).
- A male animal represented federal headship; one life stood in place of the people, foreshadowing “the one Man, Jesus Christ” who would offer Himself (Romans 5:15).
Goat- Goats were the designated animals for sin offerings (Leviticus 16:7–10). Their association with the Day of Atonement highlights substitution and removal of guilt.
- Jesus separates “the sheep from the goats” (Matthew 25:32), stressing the moral seriousness attached to the goat image—yet here a goat is accepted to bear sin, anticipating Christ who “became sin for us” (2 Corinthians 5:21).
For- The preposition signals purpose: the animal’s death is toward something—atonement. “For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for your souls” (Leviticus 17:11).
- This direction of benefit—from sacrifice to sinner—foreshadowsIsaiah 53:5: “He was pierced for our transgressions.”
A- An indefinite article can seem insignificant, yet it personalizes the act. Each leader did not bring “the” goat but “a” goat, highlighting personal responsibility.
- Salvation, too, becomes personal: “In Him we have redemption through His blood” (Ephesians 1:7).
Sin- The offering addresses sin, not mere ritual impurity. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
- Acknowledging sin is essential to restored fellowship: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us” (1 John 1:9).
Offering- An offering is given up, surrendered. “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22).
- The entire Levitical system aimed at this moment when Christ “bore our sins in His body on the tree” (1 Peter 2:24), fulfilling every previous offering, including this single male goat.
summaryNumbers 7:16 may appear as just a line in a long list, yet every word carries weight. One—sufficient; male—representative; goat—substitutionary; for—purposeful; a—personal; sin—our greatest need; offering—God’s gracious provision. Together they spotlight the gospel pattern: a divinely appointed substitute dies so sinners may live.
Verse 16. -
One kidof the goats. Literally, "one shaggy one." Hebrew,
sa 'eer. Septuagint,
χίμαρον (see on Leviticus 4:23). It is noticeable that while the burnt offerings and peace offerings were multiplied, the sin offering remained a single victim.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
oneאֶחָ֖ד(’e·ḥāḏ)Number - masculine singular
Strong's 259:United, one, firstmale goatשְׂעִיר־(śə·‘îr-)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 8163:Shaggy, a he-goat, a faunfor a sin offering;לְחַטָּֽאת׃(lə·ḥaṭ·ṭāṯ)Preposition-l | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 2403:An offence, its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, expiation, an offender
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OT Law: Numbers 7:16 One male goat for a sin offering (Nu Num.) 
