“And his offering was one silver charger, the weight whereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering:”
Individual Offering:This verse specifically details the offering brought by the leader of the tribe of Issachar. Each tribal leader brought a unique offering, and the specifics of the offering were recorded to highlight the individual contributions made by each tribe.
Precise Measurements:The offering includes a silver charger and a silver bowl, each with its own weight in shekels. The precision in the measurements indicates the careful and deliberate nature of the offerings. The use of silver for these vessels suggests their value and significance in the context of worship.
Components of the Offering:The contents of the vessels are described as “fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering.” This refers to a grain offering, a common type of offering in the Old Testament. The use of fine flour and oil symbolises purity and consecration.
Symbolism of Silver:The use of silver for the charger and bowl carries symbolic significance. In the Bible, silver is often associated with redemption and purity. This could symbolise the sincerity and purity of the leader’s offering, as well as the value placed on the act of consecration.
Shekel of the Sanctuary:The weights of the charger and bowl are measured in shekels, using the standard of the sanctuary. This underscores the sacred nature of the offerings and the importance of adhering to the prescribed standards in worship.
Meat Offering:The fine flour mixed with oil represents a meat (meal) offering, a common type of sacrifice in ancient Israel. This offering was not for atonement but rather symbolised dedication, thanksgiving, and communion with God.
Leadership and Representation:The fact that each tribal leader brought a unique offering demonstrates the sense of leadership and representation within the community. The leaders took responsibility for consecrating the Tabernacle on behalf of their respective tribes.
In a Bible study, participants might delve into the symbolism of the elements in the offering, the significance of the shekel of the sanctuary, and the communal and individual aspects of worship in ancient Israel. This verse provides insights into the diverse and intentional nature of the offerings brought by the leaders during the consecration of the Tabernacle.
