Numbers 7 2

Numbers 7:2 kjv

That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who were the princes of the tribes, and were over them that were numbered, offered:

Numbers 7:2 nkjv

Then the leaders of Israel, the heads of their fathers' houses, who were the leaders of the tribes and over those who were numbered, made an offering.

Numbers 7:2 niv

Then the leaders of Israel, the heads of families who were the tribal leaders in charge of those who were counted, made offerings.

Numbers 7:2 esv

the chiefs of Israel, heads of their fathers' houses, who were the chiefs of the tribes, who were over those who were listed, approached

Numbers 7:2 nlt

Then the leaders of Israel ? the tribal leaders who had registered the troops ? came and brought their offerings.

Numbers 7 verses

Numbers 7 2 Meaning

Numbers 7:2 states that the leaders of the tribes of Israel, who were also the heads of their ancestral households, were the individuals who came forward to present their offerings for the dedication of the Tabernacle. This verse identifies the specific authoritative figures responsible for initiating and overseeing the monumental act of communal giving that followed the completion and anointing of the Tabernacle, underscoring their primary role in matters of national worship and devotion.

Numbers 7 2 Context

Numbers chapter 7 details the dedication of the Tabernacle and the substantial offerings brought by the leaders of the tribes of Israel. This elaborate account follows directly after the completion, anointing, and consecration of the Tabernacle (Num 7:1), an event of immense theological significance as it signified God's willingness to dwell among His people. Verse 2 identifies who brought the initial offerings, specifically "the leaders of Israel," setting the stage for the highly structured and detailed listing of the gifts from each of the twelve tribes that unfolds throughout the rest of the chapter. The immediate preceding chapters (Numbers 1-6) detail the census of the fighting men, the organization of the camp, the duties of the Levites, and various laws, all of which underscore the divine order and structure established within Israel. This context highlights the leaders' crucial role in implementing and modeling obedience to divine commands, particularly in communal worship and support for the sanctuary.

Numbers 7 2 Word analysis

• And: Hebrew Wa-, connecting this verse to the preceding one, emphasizing the direct action following the Tabernacle's completion and anointing.

• the leaders of Israel: Hebrew Nesi'ei Yisra'el (נְשִׂיאֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל). "Nesi'ei" derives from nasi (נָשִׂיא), meaning "prince," "chief," or "leader." These were the men designated in Num 1:16 as "the elected ones of the congregation, the chiefs of the tribes of their fathers." This term denotes recognized authority and status, indicating representatives who acted on behalf of their entire tribal constituency. They were not merely influential but divinely sanctioned office-holders, crucial for maintaining order and directing the community.

• the heads of their fathers' houses: Hebrew Rashei beit avotam (רָאשֵׁי בֵית אֲבֹתָם). This phrase reiterates and specifies the identity of the "leaders." It signifies leadership rooted in ancestral lineage and familial structure, highlighting a patriarchal system. The "fathers' house" represented the smallest communal unit from which tribes were built. Thus, these leaders embodied both tribal representation and the deeply embedded family identity central to Israelite society. This reinforced the idea that offerings came from the very foundations of the community.

• were the ones who presented: Hebrew Hem haq'rivim (הֵם הַקְּרִבִים). The verb qarav (קרב) means "to draw near" or "to bring near." In a cultic context, it specifically refers to bringing offerings or sacrifices before the Lord. The participle haq'rivim emphasizes their active role as the agents of presentation, personally and intentionally bringing their gifts to the Tabernacle. This was a direct, hands-on involvement, setting an example for the community.

• those who were over the number of those enrolled: Hebrew Hem han'si'im al mispar hamufqadim (הֵם הַנְּשִׂיאִים עַל מִסְפַּר הַמֻּפְקָדִים). This phrase clarifies that these leaders were specifically those designated with authority and oversight concerning the census (numbers) and organization of the Israelite people, particularly in the context of their military registration and tribal duties. "Hamufqadim" refers to "those who were counted" or "appointed." It reinforces that these leaders possessed administrative and statistical knowledge of their respective tribes, underscoring the meticulous order and responsibility God had placed upon them for managing the people and their contributions.

• The phrase "the leaders of Israel, the heads of their fathers' houses": This pairing underscores the dual nature of their authority: national (representing Israel) and foundational (representing the ancestral families). It shows a comprehensive and legitimate representation of the entire nation in this act of worship and giving.

• The phrase "were the ones who presented, those who were over the number of those enrolled": This further details their role, linking their offering activity to their existing administrative authority and their knowledge of the people. It implies that their giving was not arbitrary but rooted in their deep understanding and oversight of the tribal units they led. This highlights their stewardship, demonstrating a holistic approach to their divinely appointed roles.

Numbers 7 2 Bonus section

The significant act of these leaders presenting gifts, before individual contributions, implies a principle of leadership setting an example. Their giving was not a light matter, but involved substantial, often precious, items (as detailed in subsequent verses), signifying their immense commitment and wealth given over to God. This dedication also represents the entire tribal community, emphasizing corporate responsibility and unity in devotion to the Lord. The "leaders over the number of those enrolled" connects this spiritual act to the administrative order of Israel, highlighting that even sacred giving was conducted with structure and accountability, under appointed authority, rather than randomly or haphazardly.

Numbers 7 2 Commentary

Numbers 7:2 is pivotal as it identifies the authoritative figures initiating the dedication offerings for the newly erected Tabernacle. It showcases the integral role of leadership in Israel's worship and communal life. These "princes" or "heads of fathers' houses" were not mere figureheads but active participants, modeling commitment and generosity. Their direct involvement legitimized the extensive contributions that followed, demonstrating a unified act of national devotion orchestrated from the top down. The meticulous listing of their offerings throughout the chapter stems from this verse, emphasizing order, responsibility, and the sacred value of giving to the Lord's dwelling place. It highlights the principle that those entrusted with great responsibility also bear the greatest privilege in leading worship and generosity. This sets a precedent for leaders in all generations to prioritize and embody devotion in the community.