Numbers 7:20 - Golden spoon's incense mystery?

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Hebrew Text

כַּף אַחַת עֲשָׂרָה זָהָב מְלֵאָה קְטֹרֶת׃

English Translation

one spoon of gold of ten shekels, full of incense:

Transliteration

Kaf achat asara zahav mle'a ktoret

Hebrew Leining Text

כַּ֥ף אַחַ֛ת עֲשָׂרָ֥ה זָהָ֖ב מְלֵאָ֥ה קְטֹֽרֶת׃

Parasha Commentary

Explanation of the Verse

The verse "כַּף אַחַת עֲשָׂרָה זָהָב מְלֵאָה קְטֹרֶת" (one spoon of gold of ten shekels, full of incense) appears in the context of the contributions made by the tribal leaders (נשיאים) for the dedication of the Mishkan (Tabernacle), as described in Bamidbar (Numbers) 7:14. This offering was brought by Nachshon ben Aminadav, the prince of the tribe of Yehudah.

Symbolism of the Golden Spoon (כַּף זָהָב)

Rashi explains that the כַּף (spoon) was a vessel used for holding the קטרת (incense). The fact that it was made of gold signifies the importance and sanctity of the incense offering, which was a central component of the Avodah (Temple service). The Ramban adds that gold represents purity and enduring value, reflecting the eternal nature of the service of Hashem.

Weight of Ten Shekels (עֲשָׂרָה זָהָב)

The weight of the spoon—ten shekels—carries symbolic meaning. The number ten is significant in Jewish tradition, representing completeness, as seen in the Ten Commandments, the Ten Utterances of Creation, and the minyan (quorum of ten for prayer). The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 13:15) suggests that the ten shekels allude to the Ten Trials of Avraham Avinu, emphasizing dedication and sacrifice in serving Hashem.

The Incense (קְטֹרֶת)

The ketoret (incense) was a unique offering with deep spiritual significance. The Talmud (Keritot 6b) teaches that the ketoret atones for sins and fosters unity among the Jewish people. Its ingredients, as detailed in Shemot (Exodus) 30:34-38, were carefully measured and blended, symbolizing harmony and the integration of different spiritual qualities in divine service.

Connection to the Mishkan

The Sforno notes that the leaders' offerings, including this golden spoon of incense, were not merely material contributions but represented their total devotion to the Mishkan’s sanctity. The incense, offered daily on the golden altar, served as a constant reminder of the Jewish people’s connection to Hashem.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the significance of the golden spoon (kaf) mentioned in Numbers 7:20?
A: The golden spoon (kaf) was one of the vessels used in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) for offering incense. Rashi explains that it held a precise measure - ten shekels of gold - showing the importance of exact measurements in divine service. This teaches us that serving Hashem requires precision and care in fulfilling mitzvot.

Q: Why was incense offered in the Mishkan?
A: The Ketoret (incense) had special significance in the Mishkan. The Talmud (Keritot 6b) teaches that the incense atoned for lashon hara (evil speech) and created a sweet fragrance before Hashem. The Rambam (Hilchot Temidin u'Musafin 3:3) explains it was offered twice daily as an essential part of the Temple service.

Q: What can we learn today from the offering of the golden spoon of incense?
A: The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 12:14) teaches that the incense represents unity, as it was made from multiple spices blended together. Just as the spoon had an exact measure, we learn to serve Hashem with precision in our mitzvot. Today, we can apply this by being meticulous in our prayers and mitzvah observance, and by promoting unity among the Jewish people.