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Numbers 7:24 - Zevulun's prince offers gifts

Numbers 7:24 - במדבר 7:24

Hebrew Text

בַּיּוֹם הַשְּׁלִישִׁי נָשִׂיא לִבְנֵי זְבוּלֻן אֱלִיאָב בֶּן־חֵלֹן׃

English Translation

On the third day Eli᾽av the son of Ḥelon, prince of the children of Zevulun, did offer:

Transliteration

Bayom hashlishi nasi livnei Zvulun Eliyav ben Chelon.

Hebrew Leining Text

בַּיּוֹם֙ הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֔י נָשִׂ֖יא לִבְנֵ֣י זְבוּלֻ֑ן אֱלִיאָ֖ב בֶּן־חֵלֹֽן׃
בַּיּוֹם֙ הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֔י נָשִׂ֖יא לִבְנֵ֣י זְבוּלֻ֑ן אֱלִיאָ֖ב בֶּן־חֵלֹֽן׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context in the Torah

The verse (Bamidbar 7:24) describes the offerings brought by the nasi (prince) of the tribe of Zevulun, Eli'av ben Chelon, on the third day of the dedication of the Mishkan. This event follows the pattern of each tribal leader presenting identical offerings over twelve consecutive days.

Eli'av ben Chelon: The Prince of Zevulun

Rashi (Bamidbar 7:24) notes that the name "Eli'av" (אֱלִיאָב) means "My God is Father," reflecting his righteousness and connection to the Divine. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 13:18) highlights that Zevulun's prince was chosen for this honor due to the tribe's role in supporting Torah study through commerce, as Zevulun partnered with Yissachar (Devarim 33:18).

The Significance of the Third Day

The Sforno (Bamidbar 7:24) explains that the sequence of offerings corresponds to the tribes' spiritual stature. Zevulun's offering on the third day may allude to the third day of Creation, when the seas were gathered (Bereishit 1:9-10), symbolizing Zevulun's maritime trade and their role in facilitating Torah study like water sustains life.

Symbolism of the Offerings

  • Korbanot as Unity: The identical offerings, despite tribal differences, teach that all Jews share equal standing before Hashem (Rambam, Moreh Nevuchim 3:46).
  • Zevulun's Contribution: The Malbim (Bamidbar 7:24) emphasizes that Zevulun's material support for Torah was as cherished as Yissachar's study, reflecting the partnership described in Shir HaShirim Rabbah 8:14.

Halachic Insights

The Talmud (Chullin 89b) derives from this verse that humility (symbolized by Zevulun's willingness to defer to Yissachar) is greater than sacrifices. Ramban (Bamidbar 7:24) adds that the princes' voluntary offerings set a precedent for nedavot (free-will gifts) to the Mishkan.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the significance of the 'third day' in Numbers 7:24?
A: In Numbers 7, each tribal leader (nasi) brought offerings for the dedication of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) on consecutive days. The 'third day' refers to the day assigned to Eli'av, the leader of Zevulun's tribe, to present his offering. Rashi explains that this orderly procession demonstrated unity and equality among the tribes, as each had their designated day to contribute.
Q: Who was Eli'av ben Chelon mentioned in Numbers 7:24?
A: Eli'av ben Chelon was the nasi (prince/leader) of the tribe of Zevulun during the time of the Mishkan's dedication. The Midrash highlights that tribal leaders were chosen for their righteousness and leadership qualities. His offering, like the others, symbolized the tribe's commitment to serving Hashem.
Q: Why does the Torah list each tribe's offering separately if they were identical?
A: Although each tribe brought the same offering (as detailed in Numbers 7:12-17), the Torah lists them individually to honor each tribe's unique contribution. The Talmud (Sotah 13b) teaches that repetition emphasizes the value of every individual's service to Hashem, even when actions seem similar.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the tribe of Zevulun's offering?
A: Zevulun's offering teaches the importance of timely and enthusiastic participation in communal mitzvot. Rambam notes that dedication to sacred causes—like the Mishkan—requires both personal commitment and unity with others. Zevulun's turn on the third day reminds us that every individual's role is vital to the collective mission.