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 Abidan the son of Gideoni.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 7:65. It’s a really important part of understanding Old Testament rituals and sacrifices! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, this verse describes a specific offering made to God as a sign of peace and reconciliation. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Numbers 7:65” : This is the verse itself – it’s a passage from the Book of Numbers. “And for a sacrifice of peace offerings…” : This tells us this wasn’t just any ordinary offering. It was specifically designed to be a way to show that the people were seeking harmony and understanding with God. “…two oxen, five rams, five he goats, five lambs of the first year” : This is where it gets interesting. It lists the animals being offered. These are all types of livestock – oxen, goats, sheep, and lambs. Each animal has a specific significance: Two Oxen: These were used in ancient rituals for peace and reconciliation. They symbolized a complete and harmonious relationship. Five Rams: Rams are considered sacred animals, representing strength, leadership, and protection. They were often offered as symbols of a strong and righteous nation. Five He Goats: Goats were associated with gentleness and innocence, symbolizing purity and faithfulness. Five Lambs of the First Year: Lambs are symbolic of new beginnings, innocence, and purity – representing a fresh start and a desire for peace. What was the purpose of this offering? The Jewish tradition believed that this offering was made to Abidan the son of Gideoni. Abidan was a king who was known for his generosity and desire to maintain peace with his people. This offering was a way for God to acknowledge this desire and confirm that the people were striving for harmony. It wasn't about what they were offering, but that they were seeking peace. Important Note: This specific offering happened in connection with a larger event – the Israelites’ exile from Egypt. It was a symbolic act of repentance and hope for their return to God. In short, this verse describes a carefully orchestrated ritual that demonstrated a people's commitment to peace and reconciliation with God. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can answer? For example: Are you curious about the symbolism behind each animal? Would you like me to explain the significance of the offering in a broader context (like the story of the Israelites’ exile)?