Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of the twelve silver dishes, bowls, and gold spoons mentioned in Numbers 7:84?
A: The twelve silver dishes, bowls, and gold spoons symbolize the unity and equal participation of all twelve tribes of Israel in the dedication of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Each tribe, represented by its prince, brought identical offerings to show their collective commitment to serving Hashem. Rashi explains that this teaches us the importance of unity in serving G-d, where no tribe is elevated above another.
Q: Why did the princes of Israel bring offerings for the dedication of the altar?
A: The princes (nesi'im) brought offerings to inaugurate the altar as an act of leadership and devotion. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah) teaches that the princes eagerly sought to contribute first, setting an example for the rest of the nation. Their gifts demonstrated their dedication to the Mishkan and their role in guiding the people in divine service.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the dedication of the altar in Numbers 7:84?
A: This verse teaches the importance of generosity and communal participation in sacred matters. The Rambam (Hilchos Beis HaBechirah) highlights that contributing to holy causes—whether through physical items, time, or effort—strengthens the bond between the Jewish people and Hashem. Just as the princes gave willingly, we should also seek opportunities to support mitzvot and communal needs.
Q: Why were the offerings for the altar made of silver and gold?
A: Silver and gold represent honor and value, showing the respect due to the Mishkan and its service. The Talmud (Yoma 44b) explains that precious metals were used to beautify mitzvot (hiddur mitzvah), as the Mishkan was a dwelling place for the Divine Presence. This teaches us to perform mitzvot with the finest materials we can afford, elevating our service to Hashem.
Q: How does the dedication of the altar apply to us today?
A: While we no longer have the Mishkan or Temple, the principle of dedicating our resources to holiness remains. The Chofetz Chaim teaches that our homes and synagogues can become 'mini-sanctuaries' when we use them for Torah, prayer, and kindness. Like the princes, we should take initiative in supporting Torah institutions and spiritual growth in our communities.
Introduction to the Verse
The verse describes the dedication offerings brought by the princes of Israel (nesi'im) for the inauguration of the altar (chanukat hamizbe'ach) after it was anointed. The offerings consisted of twelve silver dishes, twelve silver bowls, and twelve golden spoons, symbolizing the unity and equal participation of all twelve tribes in the service of the Mishkan.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi (Bamidbar 7:84) explains that the phrase "זאת חנכת המזבח" ("This was the dedication of the altar") refers to the collective offerings of all twelve princes, despite each prince bringing his own set of gifts on successive days (as detailed earlier in the parsha). The repetition of the number twelve emphasizes that each tribe had an equal share in the sanctification of the altar.
Symbolism of the Vessels
The Role of the Princes
The Talmud (Sotah 36b) highlights that the princes demonstrated humility by waiting to bring their offerings until after the Mishkan was fully assembled. Their gifts were not for personal glory but for the sanctification of the altar. The Sforno adds that their unified participation reflected the ideal of "כל ישראל ערבים זה לזה" ("All Jews are responsible for one another").
Historical Context
The Midrash Tanchuma (Naso 12) teaches that the dedication of the altar paralleled the creation of the world, with the twelve princes representing the twelve constellations and the twelve months, emphasizing the cosmic significance of the Mishkan as a microcosm of divine order.