Numbers 7:44

one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

Study Bible

one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense—
one gold dish
The phrase "one gold dish" refers to a singular, precious vessel made of gold. In the context of ancient Israel, gold was a symbol of purity, divinity, and kingship. The use of gold in the tabernacle and its furnishings underscored the holiness and the glory of God. The Hebrew word for "dish" here is "קַעֲרָה" (qa'arah), which denotes a shallow bowl or dish. This particular dish was used in the service of the tabernacle, indicating its sacred purpose. The singularity of the dish ("one") emphasizes the personal and individual offering to God, reflecting the personal relationship each tribe and individual had with the Lord.

weighing ten shekels
The weight of the dish is specified as "ten shekels." A shekel was a standard unit of weight in ancient Israel, approximately 11.4 grams or 0.4 ounces. The number ten in biblical numerology often signifies completeness or divine order. Thus, the weight of the dish not only provides a literal measure but also symbolizes the completeness of the offering and the orderliness of worship as prescribed by God. This precise measurement reflects the importance of obedience to God's instructions and the meticulous care with which the Israelites were to approach their worship.

filled with incense
The dish was "filled with incense," a fragrant substance used in worship. Incense in the Bible is often associated with prayer and the presence of God. The Hebrew word for incense is "קְטֹרֶת" (qetoreth), which refers to a mixture of aromatic spices. In the tabernacle, incense was burned on the altar of incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God. The filling of the dish with incense signifies the fullness of devotion and the sweet aroma of a life dedicated to God. It serves as a reminder of the importance of prayer and worship in the life of a believer, as well as the pleasing nature of sincere offerings to the Lord.

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. Gershonites
The Levite clan responsible for the care of the tabernacle's curtains and coverings, to whom the offerings were given.

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, central to their worship and community life.

4. Altar Dedication
The event where leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel brought offerings for the dedication of the altar, signifying their commitment and worship to God.

5. Incense
A fragrant offering used in worship, symbolizing prayers and the presence of God.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Incense
Incense in the Bible often symbolizes prayer and the presence of God. As believers, we are called to offer our prayers continually, like incense rising before God.

Generosity in Worship
The gold dish filled with incense represents the generosity and dedication of the Israelites in their worship. We are encouraged to give our best to God, not just in material offerings but in our time, talents, and devotion.

Unity in Worship
The collective offerings from the leaders of the tribes demonstrate unity in worship. As a community of believers, we should strive for unity in our worship and service to God.

Holiness and Reverence
The sacredness of the incense and its exclusive use for worship remind us of the holiness and reverence due to God. Our worship should be marked by a deep respect and awe for His presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the offering of incense in Numbers 7:44 reflect the importance of prayer in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate generosity in our worship and service to God today?

3. How can the unity of the tribes in their offerings inspire us to foster unity within our church communities?

4. What are some practical ways we can cultivate a sense of holiness and reverence in our personal and corporate worship?

5. How do the symbolic meanings of incense in other scriptures enhance our understanding of its significance in Numbers 7:44?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:34-38
This passage provides instructions for making incense, emphasizing its sacredness and exclusive use for worship, connecting to the incense offering in Numbers 7:44.

Revelation 8:3-4
The imagery of incense in Revelation symbolizes the prayers of the saints, drawing a parallel to the incense offering in Numbers as a representation of prayer and worship.

Psalm 141:2
The psalmist's prayer for his prayers to be set before God like incense, highlighting the symbolic nature of incense as a representation of prayer and devotion.