Numbers 7:85

KJV

Each charger of silver [weighing] an hundred and thirty [shekels], each bowl seventy: all the silver vessels [weighed] two thousand and four hundred [shekels], after the shekel of the sanctuary:

KJV (with Strong's)

Each {H259} charger {H7086} of silver {H3701} weighing an hundred {H3967} and thirty {H7970} shekels, each {H259} bowl {H4219} seventy {H7657}: all the silver {H3701} vessels {H3627} weighed two thousand {H505} and four {H702} hundred {H3967} shekels, after the shekel {H8255} of the sanctuary {H6944}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Each silver dish weighed 130 shekels [three-and-a-quarter pounds] and each basin seventy shekels [one-and-three-quarters pounds]; all the silver of the vessels weighed 2,400 shekels (using the sanctuary shekel) [just over sixty pounds].

Berean Standard Bible

Each silver platter weighed a hundred and thirty shekels, and each silver bowl seventy shekels. The total weight of the silver articles was two thousand four hundred shekels, according to the sanctuary shekel.

American Standard Version

each silver platterweighinga hundred and thirtyshekels, and each bowl seventy; all the silver of the vessels two thousand and four hundredshekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 7:85 meticulously concludes the extensive record of dedication offerings presented by the twelve tribal leaders for the newly erected Tabernacle. This verse provides a precise, cumulative account of the silver vessels—chargers and bowls—contributed, specifying their individual and collective weights. By emphasizing that these significant contributions were measured "after the shekel of the sanctuary," the text underscores the immense generosity of the Israelite community, the divine demand for exactness and integrity in worship, and the unified devotion in consecrating God's sacred dwelling place among His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 7:85 serves as a crucial summary statement within a highly structured and repetitive chapter, [Numbers 7](/numbers/7 "Numbers 7 - Offerings for the Dedication of the Tabernacle"). This chapter meticulously details the dedication offerings brought by each of the twelve tribal leaders over successive days, following the completion and anointing of the Tabernacle in [Numbers 7:1](/numbers/7-1 "Numbers 7:1 - Dedication of the Tabernacle"). Each leader presented an identical set of gifts, including specific silver and gold vessels, various animal sacrifices, and grain offerings. Verses 84-88 provide a cumulative summary of all these offerings, with verse 85 specifically totaling the silver items. This detailed accounting not only reinforces the uniformity and obedience of the offerings but also highlights the sheer scale of Israel's collective devotion, bringing the individual daily narratives to a unified and impressive grand total. The preceding verses (7:10-83) detail each day's offering, making this summary a necessary and impactful conclusion.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The dedication of the Tabernacle, as meticulously recorded in [Numbers 7](/numbers/7 "Numbers 7 - Offerings for the Dedication of the Tabernacle"), was a monumental event in Israel's early history as a nation. Following its construction according to the precise divine blueprints given to Moses (detailed in [Exodus 35-40](/exodus/35 "Exodus 35 - Construction of the Tabernacle")), the Tabernacle became the central locus of God's presence and worship among His people in the wilderness. The offerings described were not merely symbolic gestures but tangible, valuable assets contributed by the community's highest leaders, signifying the immense cost, commitment, and reverence involved in establishing and maintaining this sacred space. The recurring phrase "shekel of the sanctuary" (שֶׁקֶל הַקֹּדֶשׁ, _shekel ha-kodesh_) was a critical standard of weight, distinct from common commercial shekels. This sacred standard, often heavier or more precise, ensured absolute integrity and accuracy in all matters pertaining to the Tabernacle and divine service, preventing any deviation from God's exact requirements, a principle also seen in the half-shekel offering for the census in [Exodus 30:13](/exodus/30-13 "Exodus 30:13 - The Half-Shekel Offering") and the valuation of vows in [Leviticus 27:25](/leviticus/27-25 "Leviticus 27:25 - Valuation of Vows").
* **Key Themes:** Numbers 7:85 contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent in the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch as a whole. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Order and Precision**, demonstrating God's meticulousness in all matters related to worship and the Tabernacle. Every detail, down to the exact weight of offerings, was important to Him. Secondly, it highlights **Israel's Obedience and Generosity**, as the leaders faithfully brought the prescribed offerings, reflecting the people's willingness to dedicate their valuable resources to God's service. This generosity is a recurring theme, seen earlier in the freewill offerings for the Tabernacle's construction in [Exodus 35:20-29](/exodus/35-20-29 "Exodus 35:20-29 - Freewill Offerings for the Tabernacle"). Thirdly, the uniformity of the offerings from each tribe emphasizes the **Unity of God's People** in their corporate worship and dedication. Despite their tribal distinctions, they acted as one body in consecrating the sacred space. Finally, the "shekel of the sanctuary" reinforces the theme of **Holiness and Separation**, indicating that what is dedicated to God must meet His unblemished, sacred standard, distinct from the common or profane. This concept of holiness permeates the instructions for the Tabernacle and its services (e.g., [Leviticus 10:10](/leviticus/10-10 "Leviticus 10:10 - Distinguishing Between Holy and Common")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Charger (Hebrew, _qᵉʻârâh'_):** From H7086, this term refers to a large, hollowed-out bowl or dish, often used for serving. In the context of Tabernacle service, these chargers, weighing a substantial 130 shekels each, were likely ceremonial vessels used for presenting grain offerings or other materials (e.g., fine flour mixed with oil) as part of the prescribed rituals. Their considerable weight indicates their significant material value and perhaps their robust construction for sacred use.
* **Bowl (Hebrew, _mizrâq'_):** From H4219, this denotes a basin or bowl specifically associated with sprinkling. In the Tabernacle, such bowls were essential implements for cultic practices, primarily used for collecting and sprinkling the blood of sacrifices upon the altar or other sacred objects, or for holding other liquids used in purification rites. Its lighter weight (70 shekels) compared to the charger suggests a different, though equally vital and ritually significant, function within the sacrificial system.
* **Shekel of the sanctuary (Hebrew, _sheqel ha-qôdesh'_):** Comprising H8255 (_sheqel_) and H6944 (_qôdesh_), this phrase is a critical technical term referring to a standardized weight used exclusively for sacred purposes. The _shekel_ itself was a basic unit of weight and currency, but the addition of _qôdesh_ (sanctuary/holiness) indicates a specific, precise, and unalterable measure, distinct from and often heavier or more exact than common commercial shekels. Its mention here underscores the divine demand for absolute accuracy, integrity, and purity in all offerings and transactions related to God's holy dwelling place, ensuring that what was given to the Lord was precisely what He commanded and was of uncompromised value.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Each charger of silver [weighing] an hundred and thirty [shekels], each bowl seventy:"** This opening clause reiterates the precise, standardized weight of the two types of silver vessels contributed by each of the twelve tribal leaders. The chargers consistently weighed 130 shekels, while the bowls weighed 70 shekels. This uniformity across all offerings underscores the divine prescription for the gifts and the meticulous adherence of the leaders to God's exact requirements, demonstrating a commitment to order and precision in worship.
* **"all the silver vessels [weighed] two thousand and four hundred [shekels],"** This phrase provides the grand cumulative total of all the silver chargers and bowls from all twelve tribes. This sum is derived by multiplying the individual weights by the number of tribes (12 chargers x 130 shekels = 1560 shekels; 12 bowls x 70 shekels = 840 shekels; 1560 + 840 = 2400 shekels). This staggering cumulative figure highlights the immense material value dedicated to God's service and the collective generosity and unity of the Israelite community in supporting the Tabernacle.
* **"after the shekel of the sanctuary:"** This concluding and crucial phrase specifies the authoritative standard of weight used for all these offerings. It emphasizes that these valuable contributions were not measured by a common, potentially variable commercial standard, but by a sacred, unalterable measure established for holy purposes. This detail profoundly underscores God's demand for integrity, accuracy, and holiness in all matters pertaining to His worship and the Tabernacle, ensuring that the offerings were of unblemished quality and exact quantity as prescribed by divine law.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 7:85, as part of the larger chapter, prominently employs **Numerical Precision** and **Repetition**. The meticulous detailing of specific weights (130 shekels, 70 shekels, 2400 shekels) is not merely an accounting exercise but a theological statement, emphasizing God's demand for absolute exactness, order, and integrity in worship. This precision reflects the uncompromised nature of what is due to a holy God. The **Repetition** of identical offerings from each of the twelve tribes throughout the chapter, culminating in this summary verse, powerfully underscores the unity of Israel in their corporate devotion and obedience. It also highlights the completeness and thoroughness of the dedication process, leaving no doubt that the requirements were fully met. Furthermore, the **Symbolism** of the silver vessels themselves, set apart for sacred use, points to the value, purity, and consecration required in approaching God. The verse functions as a **Culmination**, providing a concise and impactful summary that brings the detailed individual narratives to a unified, impressive total, reinforcing the magnitude of the collective material devotion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 7:85, while seemingly a dry accounting of ancient weights, profoundly communicates timeless theological principles. It underscores the paramount importance of generous, precise, and unified giving in worship, reflecting the immense value placed on God's presence and His work among His people. The meticulous accounting and the "shekel of the sanctuary" standard reveal God's unwavering demand for integrity, accuracy, and holiness in all aspects of service to Him. This is not merely about material wealth but about the heart behind the offering—a heart that values God enough to give its very best, measured by His unblemished and unchanging standard. Furthermore, the unified, identical nature of the offerings from all tribes speaks to the essential unity of God's people in their devotion and purpose, contributing collectively and harmoniously to the establishment and maintenance of His dwelling place among them.

* [Exodus 30:13](/exodus/30-13 "Exodus 30:13 - The Half-Shekel Offering for the Census")
* [1 Chronicles 29:9](/1_chronicles/29-9 "1 Chronicles 29:9 - Joyful and Wholehearted Giving for the Temple")
* [2 Corinthians 9:7](/2_corinthians/9-7 "2 Corinthians 9:7 - God Loves a Cheerful Giver")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The ancient details of Numbers 7:85 offer profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. The meticulousness with which Israel’s leaders presented their offerings, measured by the "shekel of the sanctuary," challenges us to deeply consider the intentionality, integrity, and excellence of our own giving and service to God. Are we offering Him our "best," measured by His holy and unchanging standards, or are we content with approximations, convenience, or half-hearted efforts? This verse calls us to a higher standard of diligence, reminding us that God values precision and faithfulness in all we do for Him, whether it is our time, our talents, or our financial resources. It also powerfully speaks to the strength and beauty of unity in collective worship and mission; just as the tribes contributed in unison for the Tabernacle, so too are believers called to work together, pooling their diverse gifts and efforts for the advancement of God's kingdom and the building up of the body of Christ. Our profound reverence for God should be tangibly reflected in the care, excellence, and wholeheartedness with which we engage in His work and value what is set apart for Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of these ancient offerings challenge our contemporary approach to giving and serving God, both individually and corporately?**
* **In what specific areas of our lives or ministries do we need to apply the "shekel of the sanctuary" standard of integrity, accuracy, and unwavering commitment, moving beyond mere obligation to true devotion?**
* **Considering the profound unity displayed by the tribes in their offerings, how can we actively foster greater unity and collective devotion within our local church or Christian community for God's purposes and mission?**

### FAQ
**What was the significance of the "shekel of the sanctuary"?**

Answer: The "shekel of the sanctuary" (שֶׁקֶל הַקֹּדֶשׁ, _shekel ha-kodesh_) was a specific, standardized weight used exclusively for sacred purposes related to the Tabernacle or later, the Temple. It was typically a heavier or more precise standard than the common commercial shekel, ensuring that all offerings, payments, and valuations made to God were exact, unadulterated, and according to divine command. Its significance lies in emphasizing God's demand for absolute integrity, accuracy, and holiness in all dealings with Him and His holy things. It prevented fraud or shortchanging in sacred transactions, as also mandated for the half-shekel offering for the census in [Exodus 30:13](/exodus/30-13 "Exodus 30:13 - The Half-Shekel Offering"). This standard underscored that God's holiness required uncompromised devotion and precision.

**Why are the weights so precisely detailed in Numbers 7?**

Answer: The precise detailing of weights in [Numbers 7](/numbers/7 "Numbers 7 - Offerings for the Dedication of the Tabernacle"), culminating in verses like 85, serves several crucial theological and practical purposes. Firstly, it underscores God's demand for order, accuracy, and integrity in all matters of worship and service; there was no room for approximation when dealing with the Holy God. Secondly, it demonstrates the immense value and significance placed on the Tabernacle and its furnishings, highlighting the substantial material contributions made by the Israelite leaders. This was a costly act of devotion. Thirdly, the identical nature of the individual offerings and their meticulous summation emphasizes the unity and collective devotion of the twelve tribes in their dedication to God's dwelling place. This meticulousness reflects the divine standard of holiness and the importance of adhering faithfully to every divine instruction, ensuring that the Tabernacle was consecrated with absolute precision and reverence.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Numbers 7:85, with its profound emphasis on precise, generous, and unified offerings for the Tabernacle, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "shekel of the sanctuary" points to the absolute perfection and unblemished nature required for any acceptable offering to God. While Israel offered valuable silver vessels, these were but shadows and types of the singular, perfect, and infinitely valuable offering of Christ Himself. He is the true "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), whose sacrifice on the cross was measured by God's own perfect, unchangeable standard, utterly without blemish or defect ([Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). Just as the tribes united in their material contributions for God's dwelling place, believers now, united in Christ, become living stones in a spiritual house ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones, Spiritual House")), offering spiritual sacrifices of praise and good deeds through Him. The meticulousness demanded in the Old Covenant points to the divine standard of righteousness that only Christ perfectly fulfilled, thereby enabling us to approach God not through our imperfect offerings, but through His one, eternally sufficient sacrifice, which perfectly atoned for sin "once for all" ([Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Christ's Single Sacrifice")). In Christ, the shadow of precise material offerings gives way to the substance of perfect spiritual reality.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ezra 8:25

And weighed unto them the silver, and the gold, and the vessels, [even] the offering of the house of our God, which the king, and his counsellors, and his lords, and all Israel [there] present, had offered:

Ezra 8:26

I even weighed unto their hand six hundred and fifty talents of silver, and silver vessels an hundred talents, [and] of gold an hundred talents;

1 Chronicles 29:4

[Even] three thousand talents of gold, of the gold of Ophir, and seven thousand talents of refined silver, to overlay the walls of the houses [withal]:

1 Chronicles 22:14

Now, behold, in my trouble I have prepared for the house of the LORD an hundred thousand talents of gold, and a thousand thousand talents of silver; and of brass and iron without weight; for it is in abundance: timber also and stone have I prepared; and thou mayest add thereto.

1 Chronicles 29:7

And gave for the service of the house of God of gold five thousand talents and ten thousand drams, and of silver ten thousand talents, and of brass eighteen thousand talents, and one hundred thousand talents of iron.