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Numbers 7:84

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This [was] the dedication of the altar, in the day when it was anointed, by the princes of Israel: twelve chargers of silver, twelve silver bowls, twelve spoons of gold:

This was the dedication {H2598} of the altar {H4196}, in the day {H3117} when it was anointed {H4886}, by the princes {H5387} of Israel {H3478}: twelve {H6240}{H8147} chargers {H7086} of silver {H3701}, twelve silver {H3701} bowls {H4219}, twelve {H6240}{H8147} spoons {H3709} of gold {H2091}:

This was the offering for dedicating the altar which was given by the leaders of Isra'el on the day of its anointing: twelve silver dishes, twelve silver basins and twelve gold pans.

So these were the offerings from the leaders of Israel for the dedication of the altar when it was anointed: twelve silver platters, twelve silver bowls, and twelve gold dishes.

This was the dedication of the altar, in the day when it was anointed, by the princes of Israel: twelve silver platters, twelve silver bowls, twelve golden spoons;

Commentary

Context of Numbers 7:84

Numbers chapter 7 meticulously details the offerings brought by the leaders, or "princes," of each of the twelve tribes of Israel for the dedication of the Tabernacle and its altar. This grand event took place after the Tabernacle had been erected and consecrated, as commanded by God to Moses. The chapter systematically lists the contributions made by each prince, tribe by tribe, over twelve consecutive days, showcasing their remarkable generosity and obedience. Verse 84 serves as a crucial summary statement, marking the completion of these significant contributions specifically for the anointing and dedication of the altar, which was the central piece of furniture for Israel's sacrificial worship.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Dedication and Consecration: The primary theme is the solemn setting apart of the altar for holy use. This act of "dedication" (Hebrew: chanukah, from which the Jewish festival of Hanukkah is derived) signifies its exclusive purpose in the worship of God. The anointing with oil ritually purified and sanctified the altar, making it fit for the sacred sacrifices that would symbolize atonement and communion with the Lord.
  • Generosity and Unity: The repetition of "twelve" for each item—twelve silver chargers, twelve silver bowls, twelve gold spoons—powerfully underscores the collective and uniform participation of all twelve tribes. Each prince brought identical gifts, symbolizing their unity, shared commitment, and equal devotion to the worship of Yahweh. This was not a competitive display but a harmonious and concerted effort, demonstrating the Israelites' unified obedience and devotion under the Mosaic Law.
  • Order and Completeness: The meticulous detailing of each offering throughout Numbers 7, culminating in this summary verse, highlights God's demand for order and completeness in worship. The precise enumeration of items reflects the thoroughness required in service to God and the abundance of resources willingly provided by His people for His holy dwelling place.

Linguistic Insights

The term "dedication" (Hebrew: chanukah) implies a formal inauguration or consecration, marking an object or place as sacred and set apart. It's a profound act of devotion, not merely a casual offering. The word for "anointed" (Hebrew: mashach) literally means "to smear" or "to rub with oil." In the ancient Near East, anointing was a common practice to designate persons (like priests or kings) or objects for a special, often holy, purpose. This act of anointing conferred a sacred status upon the altar, making it the central point for the nation's sacrificial system and their direct interaction with God's presence.

Practical Application

Numbers 7:84, while rooted in ancient Israelite ritual, offers timeless principles for believers today. Just as the altar was dedicated and consecrated, believers are called to a life of personal dedication and consecration to God. Our "offerings" may not be material items like silver chargers or gold spoons, but they encompass our time, talents, and resources, which should be given willingly and generously for God's purposes. The unity among the tribes in their giving serves as a powerful reminder for the church to work together in harmony, each contributing their unique gifts to the common good and the advancement of God's kingdom. Our collective acts of worship and service, though varied in form, should reflect a unified purpose and a heart of complete devotion, much like the princes of Israel in their dedication to the Tabernacle.

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Cross-References

  • Numbers 7:10 (4 votes)

    ¶ And the princes offered for dedicating of the altar in the day that it was anointed, even the princes offered their offering before the altar.

  • Hebrews 13:10 (2 votes)

    We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle.

  • Isaiah 60:6 (2 votes)

    The multitude of camels shall cover thee, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all they from Sheba shall come: they shall bring gold and incense; and they shall shew forth the praises of the LORD.

  • Isaiah 60:10 (2 votes)

    And the sons of strangers shall build up thy walls, and their kings shall minister unto thee: for in my wrath I smote thee, but in my favour have I had mercy on thee.

  • Ezra 2:68 (2 votes)

    And [some] of the chief of the fathers, when they came to the house of the LORD which [is] at Jerusalem, offered freely for the house of God to set it up in his place:

  • Ezra 2:69 (2 votes)

    They gave after their ability unto the treasure of the work threescore and one thousand drams of gold, and five thousand pound of silver, and one hundred priests' garments.

  • Revelation 21:14 (2 votes)

    And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.