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Numbers 7:62 - Golden spoon's incense offering?

Numbers 7:62 - במדבר 7:62

Hebrew Text

כַּף אַחַת עֲשָׂרָה זָהָב מְלֵאָה קְטֹרֶת׃

English Translation

one golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:

Transliteration

Kaf achat asara zahav mele'a ketoret

Hebrew Leining Text

כַּ֥ף אַחַ֛ת עֲשָׂרָ֥ה זָהָ֖ב מְלֵאָ֥ה קְטֹֽרֶת׃
כַּ֥ף אַחַ֛ת עֲשָׂרָ֥ה זָהָ֖ב מְלֵאָ֥ה קְטֹֽרֶת׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Golden Spoon (Kaf Achas) in the Temple Service

The verse describes a golden spoon (kaf achas) weighing ten shekels, filled with incense (ketoret). This utensil was used in the daily service of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and later the Beit HaMikdash (Temple). Rashi (Exodus 25:29) explains that the kaf was a shallow vessel used for measuring and offering incense, emphasizing its precise weight and sanctity.

Symbolism of the Ten Shekels

The weight of ten shekels carries significance in Jewish thought. The Midrash Tanchuma (Pekudei 5) connects this measurement to the Ten Commandments, suggesting that the incense offering parallels the acceptance of Divine commandments. Additionally, Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 2:4) notes that all Temple vessels had specific measurements, reflecting the precision required in divine service.

The Incense (Ketoret) and Its Spiritual Meaning

The ketoret (incense) symbolizes prayer and spiritual elevation, as stated in the Talmud (Berachot 43b): "The incense atones for lashon hara (evil speech)." The Zohar (Vayikra 14b) further teaches that the fragrance of the incense represents the unity of the Jewish people ascending to Heaven.

  • Material Significance: Gold represents purity and enduring value, as explained by the Kli Yakar (Exodus 25:39).
  • Measure of Ten: Corresponds to the ten spheres of holiness (Sefer Yetzirah 1:3).
  • Fullness of Incense: Indicates complete devotion, without deficiency (Malbim, Exodus 25:29).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the 'golden spoon of incense' in Numbers 7:62 represent?
A: The golden spoon (כַּף זָהָב) filled with incense (קְטֹרֶת) was part of the offerings brought by the tribal leaders during the dedication of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Rashi explains that this symbolizes the importance of sincere prayer and devotion, as incense represents the prayers of the Jewish people ascending to Hashem (Psalms 141:2).
Q: Why was the spoon made of gold in this verse?
A: Gold represents purity and holiness in Jewish tradition. The Rambam (Hilchos Klei HaMikdash 1:2) teaches that vessels used in divine service must be made from the finest materials to honor Hashem. The golden spoon signifies the elevated spiritual nature of the incense offering in the Mishkan.
Q: What is the significance of the incense mentioned in Numbers 7:62?
A: The ketoret (incense) had a special place in the Temple service. The Talmud (Kerisos 6a) describes its unique blend of 11 spices and teaches that it atoned for lashon hara (evil speech). Offering incense demonstrated the unity of the Jewish people, as all spices had to be included for it to be valid.
Q: How does the concept of incense offerings apply to Jews today?
A: While we no longer bring physical incense offerings, the Talmud (Berachos 26b) teaches that our daily prayers correspond to the Temple sacrifices. Just as the incense rose upward, our prayers ascend to heaven. The Midrash (Tanchuma Tetzaveh 15) also compares good deeds to the fragrance of incense in their ability to please Hashem.
Q: Why does the Torah specify the weight (10 shekels) of the golden spoon?
A: The precise measurement teaches the importance of exactness in divine service. Rashi notes that the 10 shekels may allude to the 10 Commandments, showing that all aspects of Torah service are interconnected. The numerical value also reflects the perfection required in serving Hashem, as numbers often carry symbolic meaning in Torah.