Numbers 7:14
One spoon of ten shekels of gold, full of incense:
Original Language Analysis
כַּ֥ף
spoon
H3709
כַּ֥ף
spoon
Strong's:
H3709
Word #:
1 of 6
the hollow hand or palm (so of the paw of an animal, of the sole, and even of the bowl of a dish or sling, the handle of a bolt, the leaves of a palm-
עֲשָׂרָ֥ה
of ten
H6235
עֲשָׂרָ֥ה
of ten
Strong's:
H6235
Word #:
3 of 6
ten (as an accumulation to the extent of the digits)
זָהָ֖ב
shekels of gold
H2091
זָהָ֖ב
shekels of gold
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
4 of 6
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
Historical Context
Incense was burned on the golden altar inside the holy place, creating fragrant smoke that filled the sanctuary. The incense formula was prescribed by God and could not be replicated for common use. Only the priests could offer it, though in this dedication the princes' offerings were mediated through the priesthood.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the golden spoon full of incense challenge us to see prayer as precious and valuable to God?
- What does the standardized amount of incense teach about equality in prayer access regardless of status?
- In what ways should the wholehearted fullness of the spoon inform the quality of our prayer life?
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Analysis & Commentary
The golden spoon weighing ten shekels, full of incense, represents prayer ascending to God. Incense consistently symbolizes prayer throughout Scripture. The gold vessel emphasizes the preciousness of prayer—we approach God not through ordinary means but through channels refined and precious. The specific weight indicates standardization; each prince brought the same amount, showing that God receives all His people's prayers equally, regardless of tribal size or prominence. The fullness of the spoon teaches that prayer should be wholehearted, not perfunctory.