Numbers 7:44

one gold dish weighing ten shekels, filled with incense;

Study Bible

one gold dish
In the context of the Tabernacle offerings, gold signifies purity and divinity. Gold was a common material used in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, symbolizing the preciousness and holiness of the offerings made to God. The use of gold in the dish reflects the value and importance of the offering. In biblical times, gold was a rare and valuable commodity, often associated with royalty and divine worship, as seen in the gifts brought to Jesus by the Magi (Matthew 2:11).

weighing ten shekels
The shekel was a standard unit of weight in ancient Israel, approximately 11.4 grams per shekel. The specific weight of ten shekels indicates a precise and intentional offering, reflecting the order and structure God required in worship. The number ten often symbolizes completeness or divine order in the Bible, as seen in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17).

filled with incense
Incense in the Bible is often associated with prayer and worship, symbolizing the prayers of the saints rising to God (Revelation 5:8). The use of incense in the Tabernacle was a key part of the sacrificial system, representing a pleasing aroma to the Lord (Exodus 30:34-38). Incense was made from a specific blend of spices, and its use was restricted to the worship of God, highlighting the sacredness of the offering. The filling of the dish with incense signifies the fullness and richness of the worship offered to God.

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.