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Numbers 7:26 - Priestly incense offering's golden measure

Numbers 7:26 - במדבר 7:26

Hebrew Text

כַּף אַחַת עֲשָׂרָה זָהָב מְלֵאָה קְטֹרֶת׃

English Translation

one golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:

Transliteration

Kaf achat asara zahav mle'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 in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and later in the Beit HaMikdash (Temple). Rashi (Exodus 25:29) explains that the kaf (spoon) was specifically designed for handling the sacred incense, emphasizing its role in the avodah (divine service).

Symbolism of the Ten Shekels

The weight of ten shekels carries deep significance. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 13:19) connects this to the Ten Commandments, suggesting that the incense offering reflects the acceptance of divine authority. Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 2:4) further notes that all Temple vessels were made according to precise measurements, as their sanctity required exactitude in fulfilling mitzvot.

The Incense (Ketoret) and Its Spiritual Meaning

The ketoret (incense) represents unity and atonement. The Talmud (Keritot 6b) teaches that the incense had the power to nullify harsh decrees, as its smoke ascended heavenward in a straight column, symbolizing the Jewish people's unwavering devotion. The Zohar (Vayikra 14b) adds that the fragrance of the ketoret corresponds to the hidden spiritual sweetness of mitzvot.

Practical Halachic Insights

  • Material: The spoon was made of pure gold, as gold symbolizes purity and divine wisdom (Malbim, Exodus 25:29).
  • Measurements: The ten-shekel weight reflects the perfection of divine service (Sforno, Numbers 7:14).
  • Usage: The spoon was used exclusively for incense, teaching that sacred vessels must not be repurposed (Rambam, Hilchot Me'ilah 8:7).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the 'golden spoon full of incense' represent in Numbers 7:26?
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 Israel ascending to Heaven (based on 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 (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 1:2) teaches that vessels used in sacred service, like this spoon, were made of gold to honor the Divine service. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 13:14) also connects gold to the preciousness of Torah and mitzvot.
Q: What is the significance of the incense offering in the Torah?
A: Incense (קְטֹרֶת) had a special role in the Mishkan and later the Temple. The Talmud (Zevachim 88b) teaches that the incense atoned for lashon hara (evil speech) and promoted unity. The Ketoret was offered twice daily, showing the constant need for spiritual refinement and connection to Hashem.