Numbers 7:62

One golden spoon of ten [shekels], full of incense:

One {H259} golden {H2091} spoon {H3709} of ten {H6235} shekels, full {H4392} of incense {H7004}:

one gold pan of ten shekels [one-quarter pound], full of incense;

one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

one golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense;

Commentary

Context of Numbers 7:62

Numbers chapter 7 details the comprehensive offerings brought by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel for the dedication of the newly erected Tabernacle. This elaborate account underscores the immense significance of this sacred dwelling place, where God's presence would reside among His people. Each tribal leader presented identical sets of gifts, highlighting unity in worship, yet the specific items of each offering are meticulously listed. Verse 62 is part of the offerings presented by Eliasaph the son of Deuel, the leader of the tribe of Gad, emphasizing the precise and detailed nature of their dedication to God.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Worship and Dedication: The "golden spoon, full of incense" symbolizes an act of worship and dedication. Incense, in biblical tradition, often represents prayers ascending to God, a fragrant offering pleasing to Him. The preciousness of gold signifies the high value placed on this act of devotion.
  • Precision and Obedience: The meticulous detail in Numbers 7, down to the specific weight of the spoon (ten shekels), demonstrates God's demand for precise obedience in matters of worship. It shows that God cares not only about the act of giving but also about the manner and quality of the offering. This attention to detail reflects His holy character and the seriousness of approaching Him.
  • Symbolism of Incense: The incense itself was a special, holy mixture used in the Tabernacle's worship. Its burning produced a sweet aroma, signifying the pleasantness of sincere prayer and the acceptance of worship before the Lord. In the New Testament, incense is explicitly linked with the prayers of the saints (Revelation 8:3).
  • Generosity and Sacrifice: While not explicitly stated as a sacrifice, the offerings were significant contributions from each tribe, representing their communal and individual commitment to supporting the Tabernacle's functions and the Levitical priesthood.

Linguistic Insights

The term "golden spoon" (KJV) translates the Hebrew word kaph (Χ›Χ£), which literally means "palm" or "hand." In this context, it refers to a small pan or censer, typically used by priests for carrying coals or incense for burning in the Tabernacle. The "ten shekels" refers to the weight of the golden spoon itself, indicating its substantial value and the precision with which the offerings were measured. A shekel was a standard unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel, highlighting the material cost of the offering.

Practical Application

Numbers 7:62, though specific to ancient Tabernacle rituals, offers timeless principles for contemporary believers:

  • Intentional Worship: Our worship of God should be intentional, thoughtful, and offered with a spirit of excellence. Just as the Israelites brought their best, we are called to give our best in all aspects of our spiritual lives.
  • The Power of Prayer: The symbolism of incense reminds us of the importance and power of prayer. Our prayers are a fragrant offering to God, a vital means of communication and worship that ascends to His throne.
  • Attention to Detail: While not bound by the Levitical law's specifics, we are encouraged to approach our spiritual duties and callings with diligence and attention to detail, recognizing that God values our obedience and faithfulness in all things.
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Cross-References

  • Hebrews 13:15 (2 votes)

    By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of [our] lips giving thanks to his name.

  • Psalms 112:2 (2 votes)

    His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed.

  • Isaiah 66:20 (2 votes)

    And they shall bring all your brethren [for] an offering unto the LORD out of all nations upon horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and upon mules, and upon swift beasts, to my holy mountain Jerusalem, saith the LORD, as the children of Israel bring an offering in a clean vessel into the house of the LORD.

  • Daniel 9:27 (2 votes)

    And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make [it] desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

  • Philippians 4:18 (2 votes)

    But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things [which were sent] from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.

  • Romans 15:16 (2 votes)

    That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.