The Church Fathers on this verse

Numbers 7:4Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

And the Lord said to Moses:

Douay-Rheims

וַיֹּ֥אמֶר יְהוָ֖ה אֶל־מֹשֶׁ֥ה לֵּאמֹֽר׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

One Church Father comments on this verse

Cyrill of Alexandria

5th centuryChurch Father

Note that the oxen were brought forth and dedicated to the service of the tabernacle, intended to lighten the burdens and concerns of the priests during their journey by carrying the load of the chariots; similarly, the Church finds rest in Christ, who supports us and ensures that the holy and noble lineage, as well as those versed in sacred matters, are not overburdened beyond their capacities. Everything previously mentioned applies to Christ. A bullock was provided by each individual, totaling twelve in all. They transported the sacred tabernacle, two by two, yoked together to a single chariot, designated to aid the Levites in their ministry.

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This imagery can represent the two nations, still united by their shared beliefs and lifestyle, walking together patiently and resolutely under the single yoke of the Savior; for it is written, "Be of good courage, and let thy heart be strong, and bear with the Lord" (Psalms 26:14). The bullock symbolizes endurance and great strength: such are those who, by revering God, willingly take on this yoke, carrying Christ, who is embodied in the sacred tabernacle. The divine Paul also referred to the Church as Christ’s body (cf. Col. 1:24, 18); it was likewise spoken to Ananias regarding Paul, "Go, for he is My chosen vessel to proclaim My name before the nations" (Acts 9:15).