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:
NUMBERS 7:79KJVWhat does Numbers 7:79 mean?
Numbers 7:79 describes the specific offering brought by one of the tribal leaders during the dedication of the altar: a silver plate weighing 130 shekels, a silver bowl weighing 70 shekels (both measured by the sanctuary standard), both filled with fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering. This verse details the exact items and their weights, showing the care and uniformity in the offerings presented.
This verse is part of a larger section where each leader of the twelve tribes of Israel brings an identical offering for the dedication of the altar in the Tabernacle. The text records each leader’s gift in detail, emphasizing the shared commitment and equal participation of all the tribes in this important religious event. The items listed were valuable and significant in Israelite worship, especially as part of the grain (or "meat") offering.
The Hebrew behind Numbers 7:79
- The word for "offering" (קָרְבָּן, qorban) means a gift or something brought near, highlighting that these items were meant to be given to God as an act of devotion.
- "Silver" (כֶּסֶף, keseph) is repeated, underlining the value and preciousness of the items given.
- The "charger" (קְעָרָה, qe‘arah) refers to a large, flat dish or plate, used here as a vessel for the offering, showing the practical and ceremonial aspects of the gift.
- "Sanctuary" (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh) in "shekel of the sanctuary" points to a specific standard of weight used in the Tabernacle, ensuring fairness and consistency in all offerings.
Why Numbers 7:79 matters
- This verse shows the importance of equality and order among the tribes, as each leader brings the same offering, reinforcing unity in worship.
- The detailed listing of weights and items highlights the seriousness and care with which offerings to God were made, reflecting the sacredness of the occasion.
- By specifying the "shekel of the sanctuary," the verse connects the offerings directly to the Tabernacle’s standards, showing that worship was to be conducted according to God’s instructions, not personal preference.