Numbers 7:26

one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

Study Bible

one gold dish
The phrase "one gold dish" signifies a singular, precious offering. In the Hebrew context, gold is often associated with purity, divinity, and kingship. The use of gold in the tabernacle and its offerings underscores the value and honor due to God. The dish, likely a shallow bowl, was used in sacred rituals, emphasizing the importance of presenting our best to God. Historically, gold was a rare and valuable commodity, symbolizing the wealth and dedication of the Israelites to their covenant with God.

weighing ten shekels
The weight "ten shekels" provides a specific measure, indicating the standardization and precision in offerings. A shekel was a unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel, approximately 11.4 grams. The number ten often symbolizes completeness or divine order in the Bible, suggesting that the offering was complete and sufficient in the eyes of God. This precision reflects the Israelites' obedience to God's commands and their desire to honor Him with exactness.

filled with incense
"Filled with incense" highlights the purpose of the dish. Incense, in biblical times, was a symbol of prayer and worship, often used in the tabernacle to create a fragrant aroma pleasing to God. The Hebrew word for incense, "qetoreth," is associated with the idea of something that ascends, much like prayers rising to heaven. The use of incense in worship signifies the importance of a heart devoted to God, with the fragrance representing the beauty and purity of sincere worship. Historically, incense was a costly and treasured substance, further emphasizing the sacrificial nature of the offering.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the offerings from the leaders of the tribes during the dedication of the altar.

2. Nashon
The leader of the tribe of Judah, who brought the offering described in this verse.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence, where the offerings were brought for the dedication.

4. Tribe of Judah
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, represented by Nashon in this offering.

5. Dedication of the Altar
A significant event where leaders of each tribe brought offerings for the consecration of the altar in the Tabernacle.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Offerings
Offerings in the Old Testament were a tangible expression of worship and dedication to God. They remind us of the importance of giving our best to God in our own lives.

Symbolism of Incense
Incense represents prayer and worship. Just as incense rises, so should our prayers and worship ascend to God, reflecting a heart devoted to Him.

Unity in Worship
The collective offerings from each tribe signify unity in worship. In the body of Christ, unity is essential as we come together to honor God.

Generosity and Sacrifice
The gold dish and incense symbolize valuable offerings. We are called to be generous and sacrificial in our giving, reflecting God's generosity towards us.

Holiness and Reverence
The use of incense in the Tabernacle underscores the holiness of God and the reverence required in approaching Him. Our worship should be marked by a deep respect for God's holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the offering of incense in Numbers 7:26 teach us about the nature of worship in the Old Testament?

2. How can the symbolism of incense as prayer in Revelation 5:8 influence our personal prayer life today?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our offerings to God, whether time, resources, or talents, are given with the right heart and attitude?

4. How does the unity of the tribes in bringing offerings to the Tabernacle inspire us to pursue unity within our own church communities?

5. Reflect on a time when you have given sacrificially. How did that experience deepen your relationship with God, and how can you apply that lesson in your current walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:34-38
This passage provides instructions for making incense, highlighting its sacred use in worship and its connection to the presence of God.

Leviticus 2:1-2
Discusses grain offerings and the use of incense, emphasizing the pleasing aroma to the Lord, which parallels the offering in Numbers 7:26.

Revelation 5:8
Describes the prayers of the saints as incense, drawing a symbolic connection between the physical incense offering and spiritual worship.