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Numbers 7:44 - Golden spoon's incense mystery?

Numbers 7:44 - במדבר 7:44

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 Significance of the Golden Spoon (כַּף זָהָב)

The verse describes a golden spoon (כַּף זָהָב) weighing ten shekels, filled with incense (קְטֹרֶת). Rashi (Bamidbar 7:14) explains that this was one of the offerings brought by the tribal leaders (נשיאים) during the dedication of the Mishkan. The golden spoon symbolizes the refined and precious nature of the service to Hashem, as gold represents purity and value.

The Measurement of Ten Shekels

The weight of ten shekels holds symbolic meaning. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 13:14) connects this to the Ten Commandments, suggesting that the incense offering reflects the acceptance of Torah. Additionally, the Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 2:4) notes that vessels used in the Temple service had specific measurements to maintain sanctity and uniformity in divine worship.

The Incense (קְטֹרֶת) and Its Spiritual Meaning

The ketoret (incense) represents prayer and divine connection, as stated in Tehillim 141:2: "Let my prayer be set forth as incense before You." The Talmud (Keritot 6b) elaborates on the unique blend of spices used in the ketoret, teaching that its fragrance symbolizes unity among the Jewish people. The fact that the spoon was "full" (מְלֵאָה) teaches the importance of wholehearted devotion in serving Hashem.

Practical Lessons from the Verse

  • Precision in Mitzvot: The exact measurement of the spoon teaches the importance of meticulousness in fulfilling commandments (see Chazon Ish, Orach Chaim 1:1).
  • Elevation of the Mundane: The spoon, an ordinary utensil, becomes sacred when used for divine service, teaching that all actions can be elevated for holiness (based on the teachings of the Sefat Emet).
  • Unity in Worship: Just as the incense combined multiple spices, our service to Hashem must bring together all aspects of our being (based on Likutei Moharan).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the 'golden spoon of incense' represent in Numbers 7:44?
A: According to Rashi, the golden spoon (kaff) filled with incense represents the voluntary offerings brought by the tribal leaders during the dedication of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). The incense symbolizes prayer and devotion, as our Sages teach that the incense service in the Temple was especially beloved before Hashem.
Q: Why was the spoon made of gold specifically?
A: The Rambam explains that gold was used because it's the most precious metal, showing the importance of the Temple service. The Midrash adds that gold corresponds to the highest spiritual level, just as the incense service was considered among the holiest parts of the Temple rituals.
Q: What practical lesson can we learn from this verse about incense offerings today?
A: Though we cannot bring incense offerings without the Temple, our Sages teach that our prayers today take the place of the incense service (as stated in Hosea 14:3). Just as the incense had to be carefully prepared according to exact specifications, we should approach prayer with precision, intention and devotion.