The answer is: Seven bulls and seven rams

Job 42:7-8 - Seven was a common number for Jewish offerings, but was also the number used by Balaam. Num 23:29 And Balaam said to Balak, Build for me here seven altars and prepare for me here seven bulls and seven rams.

In Job 42:7-8, the directive that Eliphaz should take "seven bulls and seven rams" for a burnt offering highlights both the significance of the number seven in Hebrew tradition and the seriousness of God’s instruction regarding atonement. The number seven often represents completeness or perfection; it appears frequently throughout the Bible, from the seven days of Creation in Genesis to the seven seals in Revelation. Thus, in this context, God reinforces the magnitude of Job's experience and the completeness of the restoration that is about to unfold.

It's interesting to note that the instruction for Eliphaz to perform this ceremonial act underscores the importance of reconciliation—not just between Job and God, but also among friendships strained by their contentious discussions earlier in the book. This reflects an ethical principle deeply entrenched in many ancient cultures: to mend relationships through offerings.

Furthermore, references to Balaam rebuilding seven altars with similar offerings not only bridge Old Testament narratives, but also remind readers that God’s dialogue can transcend human expectations. Balaam ultimately emerges as a foreign character who was sensitive to God’s will, illustrating that even the most unexpected figures can encounter divine plans.

Thus, this offering reiterates that despite Job’s suffering and the flawed arguments from his companions, atonement and the restoration of relationships represent a transformative closure, contributing richly to the themes of redemption and understanding found throughout scripture.