Definition: 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 Eliasaph the son of Deuel.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Numbers 7:47. It’s a really important part of understanding how the Jewish mourners behaved after a death. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it describes a special way of honoring someone who died. “And for a sacrifice of peace offerings…” – This means they were offering something to remember and honor the deceased. It wasn't just a regular prayer or condolence. “…two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year:” - This lists specific animals that were sacrificed. These weren’t just any animals; they were chosen because they represented something important – like strength, leadership, and a connection to God. Two oxen: These symbolized two sides of the deceased – the good and the bad. Five rams: Rams are powerful animals often associated with leadership and authority. Five of these meant a lot of importance was being given to the deceased. Five he goats: These were symbolic of a young, vibrant life. Five lambs of the first year: This is the most significant part – lambs represent new beginnings and innocence. It signifies that the deceased was new and innocent – like a fresh start after death. “This [was] the offering of Eliasaph the son of Deuel.” - Eliasaph was a mourner in Jewish tradition. He was a close friend or family member of the deceased. This verse tells us who offered this sacrifice. It meant that Eliasaph, representing the continuation of the family’s lineage and connection to the deceased, made this offering as a way to remember and honor their loved one. In short: This verse describes a tradition where Jewish mourners would offer a significant amount of sacrificial animals – specifically goats, rams, and lambs – as a way to commemorate and honor someone who had passed away. It’s a ritual designed to keep the memory of that person alive. Why is this important? It's a key part of understanding Jewish burial practices and traditions. It highlights the importance of remembering loved ones and honoring their passing through rituals and offerings. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can help you with? For example, are you curious about: The historical context? What it symbolizes?