Numbers 4:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Numbers 4:11
11 And upon the golden altar they shall spread a cloth of blue, and cover it with a covering of badgers' skins, and shall put to the staves thereof:
Chapter Context
Numbers 4 is a mixed narrative and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of discipleship, worship, covenant. Written during Israel's wilderness period (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The wilderness journey occurred between Egypt's dominance and the Canaanite tribal systems.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-49: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Numbers and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Numbers 4:11
11 And upon the golden altar they shall spread a cloth of blue, and cover it with a covering of badgers' skins, and shall put to the staves thereof:
Analysis
The golden altar's covering procedure—'spread a cloth of blue, and cover it with a covering of badgers' skins'—paralleled other holy objects but was distinct in its placement 'before the vail' (Exodus 40:5). The golden altar (incense altar) stood nearest the holy of holies, representing prayers ascending to God (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8). Its transport maintaining ceremonial protection teaches that prayer access to God requires proper mediation. In the Old Covenant, priestly intercession; in the New, Christ's high priestly work (Hebrews 7:25). Prayer is not casual but sacred, requiring Christ's mediatorial covering.
Historical Context
The golden altar of incense (distinct from the bronze altar for animal sacrifice) burned fragrant incense morning and evening when priests trimmed the lamps (Exodus 30:7-8). This daily practice symbolized continual prayer. Later, Zacharias was offering incense when Gabriel announced John the Baptist's birth (Luke 1:9-11). The altar's position before the veil—closest to God's presence—symbolized prayer penetrating to God's throne.
Reflection
- How does the incense altar representing prayer inform our understanding of prayer's sacredness?
- What does Christ's mediation of our prayers mean practically?
- How should we approach prayer—casually or with reverence befitting access to God's presence?
Word Studies
- Altar: מִזְבֵּחַ (Mizbeach) H4196 - Altar, place of sacrifice