Numbers 7:49 - gave his offering: one silver platter, the weight of which was one hundred thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mixed with oil for a meal offering;

Generated Verse: Numbers 7:49

What does "Numbers 7:49" mean?


This verse describes one component of the offerings presented by the leaders of the tribes of Israel at the dedication of the Tabernacle (the portable sanctuary). Let's break it down:

"gave his offering": This refers to one of the leaders of the tribes of Israel bringing his prescribed gift to the Tabernacle. The entire Chapter 7 of Numbers details the gifts presented by each of the twelve tribal leaders. Each leader offered the same set of items.

"one silver platter, the weight of which was one hundred thirty shekels": A large silver dish weighing 130 shekels (a unit of weight). Silver was a precious metal, indicating the value and dedication of the offering.

"one silver bowl of seventy shekels": Another silver vessel, smaller than the platter, weighing 70 shekels.

"after the shekel of the sanctuary": This is important. The shekel was a unit of weight, but there were different standards. The "shekel of the sanctuary" refers to a standardized, officially recognized weight used for sacred offerings. This ensures consistency and fairness in the offerings. Think of it as using a certified scale.

"both of them full of fine flour mixed with oil for a meal offering": Both the platter and the bowl were filled with fine flour mixed with oil. This mixture constituted a "meal offering" (also called a grain offering). Meal offerings were typically offered alongside animal sacrifices, and were a sign of thanksgiving and devotion to God.

In summary:

This verse describes a specific part of the offering brought by each tribal leader to the Tabernacle. It consisted of a large silver platter, a smaller silver bowl, both filled with fine flour mixed with oil. The silver and the fine flour represented valuable gifts, and the "shekel of the sanctuary" ensured that the weights used were accurate and according to the established religious standard. This offering was part of a larger dedication ceremony, demonstrating the leaders' (and therefore the tribes') commitment and reverence to God. The standardized nature of the gifts highlights the unity and communal aspect of worship.

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