Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of the twelve golden spoons in Numbers 7:86?
A: The twelve golden spoons represent the offerings brought by the twelve tribal leaders of Israel for the dedication of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Each spoon, filled with incense, symbolizes unity and equal participation among the tribes in serving Hashem, as explained by Rashi and the Midrash.
Q: Why was incense used in the offerings in Numbers 7:86?
A: Incense (ketoret) was used because it represents purity and devotion in serving Hashem. The Talmud (Keritot 6a) teaches that the incense had a special spiritual significance, atoning for sins and creating a pleasing aroma before Hashem. Each leader’s identical offering of incense emphasized collective dedication.
Q: What does 'after the shekel of the sanctuary' mean in Numbers 7:86?
A: The phrase 'after the shekel of the sanctuary' means that the weight of the spoons was measured using the sacred shekel standard kept in the Mishkan. Rambam (Hilchot Shekalim 1:2) explains that this was a fixed holy measurement used for all contributions related to the Mishkan or Temple service.
Q: Why is the total weight of the golden spoons (120 shekels) important in Numbers 7:86?
A: The total weight of 120 shekels (12 spoons × 10 shekels each) signifies completeness and unity among the twelve tribes. The number 120 also appears in other significant Jewish contexts, such as the age of Moshe (120 years), hinting at divine perfection, as noted in Midrashic interpretations.
Q: How does the dedication of the golden spoons apply to us today?
A: Though we no longer bring physical offerings, the lesson of unity and equal dedication to Hashem remains. Just as each tribe contributed identically, we learn from the Talmud (Shevuot 39a) that every Jew has an equal share in serving Hashem through Torah, prayer, and acts of kindness, regardless of status or background.
The Golden Spoons and Their Significance
The verse describes twelve golden spoons (kapot zahav) filled with incense, each weighing ten shekels according to the sacred shekel. Rashi (Bamidbar 7:14) explains that these spoons were part of the offerings brought by the tribal leaders (nesi'im) during the dedication of the Mishkan. Each leader brought an identical offering, symbolizing unity among the tribes despite their individual roles.
The Weight and Symbolism of the Spoons
The spoons weighed ten shekels each, totaling 120 shekels for all twelve. The Ramban (Bamidbar 7:19) notes that the number ten represents completeness, as seen in the Ten Commandments and the Ten Utterances of Creation. The total of 120 shekels may allude to the lifespan of Moshe Rabbeinu (Devarim 34:7), hinting at the enduring legacy of the Mishkan's sanctity.
The Incense and Its Spiritual Meaning
The spoons were filled with incense (ketoret), which the Talmud (Keritot 6b) teaches atones for sins and fosters divine favor. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 13:14) connects the incense to the unity of Klal Yisrael, as its blend of spices symbolizes how different individuals unite in service to Hashem.
The Sacred Shekel and Its Importance
The measurement "after the shekel of the sanctuary" (shekel hakodesh) emphasizes the spiritual value of the offering. The Ibn Ezra (Bamidbar 7:14) explains that this shekel was standardized for all holy contributions, ensuring fairness and sanctity in the Mishkan's service.