Numbers Chapter 7
As we read through scripture, we begin to realize that it is not always in chronological order. The content given in this chapter would fall in line with the dedication of the Tabernacle and would fit after Leviticus chapters 8 and 9. These gifts brought to the Tabernacle by the twelve tribes of Israel were the gifts brought to begin the worship and sacrificial system.
There must have been instructions given to each head of each tribe as to what they needed to bring to the Tabernacle because they all brought identical gifts. One of the notable gifts given were the carts and oxen given. This would have been extremely helpful and essential for carrying all that made up the tabernacle. The carts would have been a sacrifice to give up as they were probably a luxury that was brought out of Egypt.
The Levite family of Kohath were not given oxen nor carts because they had the distinct job of carrying the most sacred items of the Tabernacle and God had instructed how they were to be carried by men.
Let's Reflect
1. You will notice that the gifts brought were brought over a series of twelve days. Why do you suppose they did not just bring all the gifts on the same day to the Tabernacle?
2. What instructions were the sons of Kohath given regarding how they would transport the most holy things of the Tabernacle? See verse 9.
3. Verse 10 describes when the twelve tribes commenced bringing these gifts to the Tabernacle. When was this?
4. What tribe started the process on the first day?
5. All these gifts were brought for a dedication. According to verse 84 and verse 88 what was the dedication?
6. The chapter ends with a beautiful declaration that Moses went into the tent of meeting, and he heard an audible voice. Whose voice did He hear?
