Numbers 7:38

one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

Study Bible

one gold dish
In the context of the offerings made by the leaders of Israel, the gold dish represents a valuable and significant gift. Gold, often associated with royalty and divinity, signifies the preciousness of the offering to God. In the tabernacle, gold was used extensively, symbolizing purity and holiness. The use of gold in offerings can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate offering of Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the King of Kings.

weighing ten shekels
The weight of ten shekels indicates a specific and intentional measure, reflecting the order and precision in the worship practices of Israel. The shekel was a standard unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel, and its use here underscores the importance of giving to God in a manner that is both generous and measured. This precision in offerings can be seen as a reflection of God's orderly nature and His desire for His people to approach Him with intentionality.

filled with incense
Incense in the Bible is often associated with prayer and worship. In the tabernacle, incense was burned on the altar of incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God. The sweet aroma of incense is a metaphor for the pleasing nature of sincere worship and prayer. In Revelation 8:3-4, incense is directly linked to the prayers of the saints, indicating its continued symbolic significance. The use of incense in offerings can also be seen as a type of Christ, whose life and sacrifice are a pleasing aroma to God, as described in Ephesians 5:2.

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 the tribes to consecrate the altar for worship.

5. Incense
A fragrant substance used in worship, symbolizing prayer 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 as a fragrant offering to God, seeking His presence in our lives.

Generosity in Worship
The leaders of Israel gave generously for the dedication of the altar. This teaches us the importance of giving our best to God in worship, not just in material offerings but in our time, talents, and devotion.

Holiness and Reverence
The specific instructions for the incense and its use highlight the holiness and reverence required in worship. We are reminded to approach God with a heart of reverence and respect for His holiness.

Unity in Worship
The collective offerings from the leaders of the tribes demonstrate unity in worship. As a community of believers, we are encouraged to come together in unity to worship and serve God.

Consistency in Devotion
The regularity of offerings during the altar dedication reflects the need for consistent devotion in our spiritual lives. We are called to maintain a steady and faithful relationship with God through regular prayer and worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the offering of incense in Numbers 7:38 relate to the concept of prayer in your personal spiritual 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 you cultivate a sense of holiness and reverence in your daily worship practices?

4. What steps can you take to promote unity within your church or community in worship and service?

5. Reflect on your current spiritual practices. How can you ensure consistency and faithfulness in your devotion to God?

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 7:38.

Revelation 8:3-4
This New Testament passage describes incense as representing the prayers of the saints, linking the Old Testament practice to a broader spiritual significance.

Psalm 141:2
The psalmist likens prayer to incense, reinforcing the symbolic meaning of incense as a representation of prayer and worship.