“One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense.”
Numbers 7:46 is a part of the chapter that describes the offerings brought by the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel during the consecration of the tabernacle. Each tribe leader brought a set of offerings that were presented on behalf of their tribe. These offerings included silver and gold utensils, sacrificial animals, and various other items.
In this particular verse, we see the description of an offering brought by Ahiezer, the leader of the tribe of Dan. He presented a golden spoon filled with incense. It is important to note that the offerings given by each tribe leader were identical, including the weight and value of the items.
The significance of the golden spoon filled with incense can be understood in the context of the tabernacle and its purpose. The tabernacle was a portable dwelling place for God’s presence among the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. It consisted of three main sections: the outer court, the Holy Place, and the Most Holy Place (or the Holy of Holies). The golden spoon with incense was used in the Holy Place:The Holy Place was the first section of the tabernacle’s interior, and it housed the golden lampstand (menorah), the table of showbread, and the altar of incense. The altar of incense was located just in front of the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. The priests burned incense on this altar twice a day, in the morning and in the evening (Exodus 30:7-8). The incense represented the prayers of the people ascending to God (Psalm 141:2).
The golden spoon mentioned in Numbers 7:46 was likely used to scoop the incense from its container and place it on the altar of incense for burning. The act of burning incense was seen as an act of worship and devotion to God. It symbolized the people’s desire for their prayers and petitions to reach God’s presence and find acceptance.
Beyond the literal meaning of the verse:we can draw spiritual lessons from it. The golden spoon filled with incense can remind us of the importance of prayer and worship in our relationship with God. Just as the incense represented the prayers of the Israelites, our prayers are a way for us to communicate with God, express our adoration, seek His guidance, and present our needs before Him.
Additionally, the act of bringing offerings to the tabernacle by the leaders of each tribe signifies their commitment to God and their desire to honor Him. Similarly, as believers today, we can offer our lives as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1), presenting ourselves to God in devotion and service.
In conclusion, Numbers 7:46:describes an offering brought by Ahiezer, the leader of the tribe of Dan, during the consecration of the tabernacle. The golden spoon filled with incense symbolizes the act of worship and prayer, reminding us of the significance of seeking God’s presence, expressing our devotion, and offering our lives to Him.
