Numbers 7:50

This verse is part of a detailed list found in Numbers chapter 7, recording the dedication offerings brought by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel for the newly consecrated tabernacle and altar. Each leader brought the exact same extensive offering on successive days. Verse 50 specifically describes one item from the offering brought by Elishama the son of Ammihud, leader of the tribe of Ephraim, on the seventh day of the dedication.

Context

Numbers chapter 7 meticulously documents the offerings presented by the tribal leaders over twelve days following the setting up of the tabernacle, as commanded by God. The offerings included wagons, oxen, and a variety of precious vessels and substances for the service of the tabernacle. This specific verse details part of the precious metal vessels offered, highlighting the uniformity and completeness of each tribe's contribution. You can read about the beginning of these offerings in Numbers 7:1.

Key Themes

• Dedication and Worship: The entire chapter emphasizes the Israelites' dedication to God and the importance of supporting the place of worship. The offering was a corporate act of devotion from all the tribes.
• Preciousness of Offerings: A "golden spoon" weighing ten shekels was a valuable item. Gold signifies purity, value, and royalty, indicating that only the best was fit for God's service.
• Significance of Incense: The spoon was full of incense. In the Bible, incense often symbolizes the prayers of the saints ascending to God or the sweet aroma of worship acceptable to Him.
• Uniformity and Equality: The fact that each leader brought the exact same elaborate offering underscores the principle that all tribes had an equal part in the worship and support of the tabernacle, regardless of their size or status among men.

Linguistic Insights

The term "shekels" refers to a standard unit of weight used in ancient Israel, often associated with silver or gold. A "golden spoon" (Hebrew: kaph) could also be translated as a pan or censer, used specifically for handling coals or incense in the tabernacle service. The "incense" (Hebrew: qetoreth) was a specific, sacred mixture used only for the tabernacle altar of incense, representing the prayers and worship rising before God's presence.

Reflection

This small detail within a long list of offerings speaks volumes. It shows the high value God placed on the materials used in His worship and the specific purpose of the incense. It reminds us that our worship and prayers are precious in God's sight, like a costly offering. It encourages us to offer our best to God, not just in material things, but in sincere devotion and heartfelt prayer, which are like golden bowls full of incense before the throne.