Numbers 7:32

one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

Study Bible

one gold dish
Gold was a precious metal often used in the tabernacle and later in the temple, symbolizing purity and divinity. The use of gold in the offerings reflects the value and honor given to God. In the ancient Near East, gold was a sign of wealth and status, and its use in religious contexts signified the importance of the offering. The dish itself would have been crafted with care, indicating the reverence and dedication of the giver.

weighing ten shekels
A shekel was a standard unit of weight in ancient Israel, approximately 11 grams or 0.4 ounces. Ten shekels would thus be about 110 grams or 4 ounces. The specific weight indicates a measure of precision and intentionality in the offering. Numbers often have symbolic meanings in the Bible; ten can represent completeness or divine order, suggesting the offering was complete and sufficient.

filled with incense
Incense was a significant element in Israelite worship, symbolizing prayer and the presence of God. It was used in the tabernacle and later in the temple, particularly in the Holy Place. The sweet aroma of incense rising was a metaphor for prayers ascending to God. In Revelation 5:8, incense is associated with the prayers of the saints, showing continuity in the symbolism from the Old to the New Testament. The use of incense in offerings highlights the importance of prayer and worship in the relationship between God and His people.

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

3. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, where the altar was located.

4. Altar Dedication
A significant event where offerings were made by the leaders of each tribe to consecrate the altar for worship.

5. Gold Dish and Incense
Part of the offering, symbolizing purity and the prayers of the people rising to God.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Incense
Incense in the Bible often symbolizes prayer and worship. As believers, we are called to offer our prayers as a fragrant offering to God, just as the incense was a pleasing aroma in the Tabernacle.

Generosity in Worship
The leaders of Israel gave generously and willingly for the dedication of the altar. This teaches us the importance of giving our best to God in worship and service.

Unity in Worship
Each tribe contributed equally to the dedication, symbolizing unity among God's people. In the church today, unity in worship and purpose is essential for effective ministry.

Holiness and Reverence
The use of gold and incense in the offerings underscores the holiness and reverence due to God. Our approach to worship should be marked by a deep respect for God's holiness.

Consistency in Devotion
The regularity of offerings during the altar dedication reminds us of the importance of consistent devotion and commitment in our spiritual lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the offering of incense in Numbers 7:32 relate to the concept of prayer in your personal life?

2. In what ways can you demonstrate generosity in your worship and service to God, similar to the leaders of Israel?

3. How can the unity displayed by the Israelite tribes during the altar dedication be applied to your local church community?

4. What steps can you take to ensure that your worship is marked by holiness and reverence?

5. Reflect on your current spiritual practices. How can you cultivate a more consistent devotion to God, inspired by the regular offerings in Numbers 7?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:34-38
This passage describes the composition and use of incense in the Tabernacle, highlighting its sacredness and connection to prayer.

Revelation 5:8
This verse connects incense with the prayers of the saints, showing continuity in the symbolism from the Old to the New Testament.

Psalm 141:2
The psalmist likens his prayer to incense, reinforcing the idea of prayer as a fragrant offering to God.