Numbers 7:85

Each silver platter weighed a hundred and thirty shekels, and each silver bowl seventy shekels. The total weight of the silver articles was two thousand four hundred shekels, according to the sanctuary shekel.

Study Bible

Each silver platter
The Hebrew word for "platter" is "קַעֲרָה" (qaarah), which refers to a large dish or bowl. In the context of the tabernacle, these platters were used for sacred purposes, possibly for holding offerings or other ritual items. The use of silver, a precious metal, signifies the value and purity required in items dedicated to God. Silver often symbolizes redemption in the Bible, pointing to the redemptive work of Christ.

weighed a hundred and thirty shekels
The shekel was a standard unit of weight in ancient Israel, approximately 11 grams. Thus, each platter weighed about 1,430 grams or 1.43 kilograms. The specific weight underscores the precision and care in the offerings made to God, reflecting the importance of giving our best to Him. This meticulous attention to detail in worship is a reminder of the reverence due to God.

and each bowl seventy shekels
The Hebrew word for "bowl" is "מִזְרָק" (mizraq), often used for sprinkling or pouring out liquids, possibly for libations or blood in sacrificial rituals. The weight of seventy shekels (approximately 770 grams) indicates a significant but lesser weight than the platters, suggesting a different but equally important function in the tabernacle service. This differentiation in weight and purpose highlights the diversity of gifts and roles within the body of Christ.

all the silver of the vessels
The collective term "vessels" (כְּלִי, keli) encompasses all the items used in the tabernacle service. Silver, as a material, is not only valuable but also durable, symbolizing the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people. The vessels' collective weight emphasizes the communal aspect of worship, where each tribe contributed to the service of the tabernacle, reflecting the unity and diversity of the church.

weighed 2,400 shekels
The total weight of 2,400 shekels (approximately 26.4 kilograms) of silver represents the cumulative offering from the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel. This substantial offering underscores the collective commitment and devotion of the entire community to the service of God. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and shared responsibility in the worship and work of the church.

according to the sanctuary shekel
The "sanctuary shekel" was a standard measure used in the tabernacle, ensuring uniformity and fairness in offerings. This standardization reflects God's desire for order and justice in worship. It also points to the ultimate standard of righteousness found in Christ, who fulfills the law and the prophets. The sanctuary shekel serves as a reminder that our offerings and service must align with God's standards, not our own.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelite Leaders
The heads of the twelve tribes who brought offerings for the dedication of the altar.

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

4. Sanctuary Shekel
A standard unit of weight used in the tabernacle, ensuring uniformity in offerings.

5. Dedication of the Altar
A significant event where offerings were made to consecrate the altar for worship.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Standardization in Worship
The use of the sanctuary shekel highlights the need for consistency and fairness in our offerings to God. It reminds us that our worship should be measured and intentional.

Generosity in Giving
The substantial weight of the silver offerings reflects the generosity of the Israelite leaders. We are encouraged to give generously and sacrificially to God's work.

Symbolism of Silver
Silver often symbolizes redemption and purity in the Bible. Our offerings should be given with a heart seeking purity and redemption.

Community Participation in Worship
The collective offerings from all tribes emphasize the importance of community involvement in worship. Each member of the body of Christ has a role to play in supporting the church.

Dedication and Consecration
The dedication of the altar signifies setting apart something for God's use. We are called to dedicate our lives and resources to God's service.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of the sanctuary shekel in Numbers 7:85 emphasize the importance of fairness and consistency in our offerings to God?

2. In what ways can we practice generosity in our own lives, reflecting the spirit of the Israelite leaders' offerings?

3. What does the symbolism of silver teach us about the nature of our offerings and our relationship with God?

4. How can we encourage community participation in our local church, similar to the collective offerings of the Israelite tribes?

5. What areas of our lives need to be dedicated or consecrated to God, and how can we take practical steps to do so?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:13
This verse provides context for the "sanctuary shekel," establishing it as a standard measure for offerings.

Leviticus 27:25
Reinforces the use of the sanctuary shekel in valuations, emphasizing the importance of standardization in worship practices.

1 Chronicles 29:7
Describes similar offerings made for the temple, showing continuity in the practice of giving for God's dwelling place.

2 Corinthians 9:7
Connects the concept of giving with a cheerful heart, reflecting the spirit behind the offerings in Numbers 7.