King James Version

What Does Numbers 7:18 Mean?

Numbers 7:18 in the King James Version says “On the second day Nethaneel the son of Zuar, prince of Issachar, did offer: — study this verse from Numbers chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

On the second day Nethaneel the son of Zuar, prince of Issachar, did offer:

Numbers 7:18 · KJV


Context

16

One kid of the goats for a sin offering:

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.

18

On the second day Nethaneel the son of Zuar, prince of Issachar, did offer:

19

He offered for his offering one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:

20

One spoon of gold of ten shekels, full of incense:


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Nethaneel, prince of Issachar, offering on the second day continues the pattern established by Nahshon. His identical offering demonstrates unity of purpose and equality of devotion among the tribes. While Judah had prominence in order, Issachar's equal gift showed that all tribes contributed fully to God's house. This reflects the Reformed understanding of the body of Christ—different members with different functions but equal value and calling to full devotion. No tribe was expected to give less than the standard established.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Issachar's tribal territory would later be known for agricultural fertility, making their wealth in livestock particularly fitting. The tribe of Issachar was noted for men who 'had understanding of the times' (1 Chronicles 12:32), connecting wisdom with worship. Nethaneel's leadership in worship reflected this combination of provision and understanding.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does the equality of offerings across tribes teach about expectations for Christian giving?
  2. How does full participation by every tribe challenge modern tendencies toward unequal commitment?
  3. In what ways does matching the standard set by others demonstrate unity rather than competition?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
בַּיּוֹם֙1 of 8

day

H3117

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

הַשֵּׁנִ֔י2 of 8

On the second

H8145

properly, double, i.e., second; also adverbially, again

הִקְרִ֖יב3 of 8

did offer

H7126

to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose

נְתַנְאֵ֣ל4 of 8

Nethaneel

H5417

nethanel, the name of ten israelites

בֶּן5 of 8

the son

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

צוּעָ֑ר6 of 8

of Zuar

H6686

tsuar, an israelite

נְשִׂ֖יא7 of 8

prince

H5387

properly, an exalted one, i.e., a king or sheik; also a rising mist

יִשָּׂשכָֽר׃8 of 8

of Issachar

H3485

jissaskar, a son of jacob


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Numbers 7:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Numbers 7:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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