Numbers 7:86 - the twelve golden ladles, full of incense, weighing ten shekels apiece, after the shekel of the sanctuary; all the gold of the ladles weighed one hundred twenty shekels;

Generated Verse: Numbers 7:86

What does "Numbers 7:86" mean?


Numbers 7 describes the offerings brought by the leaders of the tribes of Israel at the dedication of the Tabernacle. Verse 86 specifically details the weight and contents of twelve golden ladles, which were part of each tribe's offering. Let's break down the meaning:

"the twelve golden ladles": Each of the twelve tribal leaders presented a golden ladle as part of their offering. A ladle was a small container, likely bowl-shaped with a handle, used to hold and pour something (in this case, incense).
"full of incense": Each ladle was filled with incense. Incense was a fragrant mixture of spices and resins that was burned as a religious offering. It symbolized prayer and worship ascending to God.
"weighing ten shekels apiece, after the shekel of the sanctuary": Each golden ladle weighed ten shekels. The phrase "after the shekel of the sanctuary" is important. It means that the weight was measured according to the standard shekel used in the Temple (or sanctuary), which was considered more precise and reliable than common shekels used in everyday commerce. This ensured that the offerings met the specified standard.
"all the gold of the ladles weighed one hundred twenty shekels": Since there were twelve ladles, each weighing ten shekels, the total weight of all the gold used to make the ladles was 120 shekels (12 x 10 = 120).

Significance and Interpretation:

Precise Measurements and Divine Standards: The meticulous description, including the weight "after the shekel of the sanctuary," emphasizes the importance of offering the best and most accurate measures to God. God's standards are precise, and the Israelites were expected to uphold those standards in their worship and offerings.
Uniformity and Unity: The fact that each tribe offered the exact same type and amount of gift (a golden ladle of the same weight filled with incense) symbolizes the unity of the twelve tribes of Israel. Despite their individual identities, they came together in a unified act of worship and dedication.
Value and Cost: Gold was a precious metal, and incense was also valuable. The gifts were not insignificant or token offerings. They represent the willingness of the leaders to give generously to God.
Symbolism of Incense: The incense, representing prayer and worship, highlights the importance of these spiritual practices in the relationship between God and His people.

In summary, Numbers 7:86 provides a specific detail within the larger narrative of the Tabernacle's dedication, emphasizing the precise standards of offering, the unity of the tribes, and the value of worship and prayer represented by the golden ladles filled with incense.

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