Numbers 31:29 Meaning and Explanation
“Take it of their half, and give it unto Eleazar the priest, for an heave offering of the LORD.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The tribute is taken from the soldiers' share and given to the priest as God's offering.
The Context of Numbers 31:29
Tribute is given to Eleazar for God's offering.
What Does Numbers 31:29 Mean?
The tribute extracted from the soldiers' half is designated as an 'heave offering' to the Lord. This offering is given to Eleazar the priest, who represents God in the community. The term 'heave offering' refers to a gift lifted up or presented to God through the priestly system. Eleazar receives this portion on behalf of God, and it becomes his and the priestly tribe's resource. The priestly share ensures that those who serve God in religious functions are supported by the community's appreciation for God's blessings.
The arrangement establishes a cycle of blessing: God provides victory, the people recognize this with tribute, the priests receive the tribute as support for their service, and the priests perform religious functions that maintain Israel's covenant with God. This system binds together military success, religious authority, and community welfare into an integrated whole. The heave offering transforms raw spoils into consecrated property.
Numbers 31:29 in the Original Language
terumah (תְרוּמָה), 'heave offering' — a lifted portion, gift consecrated to God and given to priests.
Frequently Asked Questions About Numbers 31:29
What does Numbers 31:29 mean?
The tribute is taken from the soldiers' share and given to the priest as God's offering.
What is the context of Numbers 31:29?
Tribute is given to Eleazar for God's offering.