Old Testament
Numbers 7:38
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Numbers 7:38, we see a specific offering made to God during the dedication of the tabernacle.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
He also brought one gold ladle weighing 10 shekels, filled with incense.
One golden spoon of ten shekels, full of incense:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Numbers 7:38, we see a specific offering made to God during the dedication of the tabernacle. The verse mentions a gold ladle, which is a significant item used for ceremonial purposes. Weighing ten shekels, this ladle was filled with incense, symbolizing the prayers and worship of the people rising to God. Incense in biblical times was often associated with holiness and the presence of God, indicating that the offering was not just a physical gift but also a spiritual act of devotion. The use of gold signifies the value and importance of the offering, reflecting the people's reverence for God. This act of bringing a ladle filled with incense highlights the importance of worship and the acknowledgment of God's holiness in the community of Israel. It serves as a reminder that our offerings, whether material or spiritual, should be given with sincerity and respect, recognizing God's greatness and our relationship with Him.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Numbers 7:38 to your life
This verse encourages us to consider the value of our offerings to God, whether they are material gifts or acts of service. It reminds us to approach God with reverence and sincerity, ensuring that our worship reflects our love and respect for Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 7:38 mean?
Numbers 7:38 describes an offering made to God during the dedication of the tabernacle, specifically mentioning a gold ladle filled with incense. This symbolizes the prayers and worship of the people, highlighting the importance of reverence in their relationship with God.
What is the significance of the gold ladle in Numbers 7:38?
The gold ladle in Numbers 7:38 represents a valuable offering made to God, emphasizing the holiness of the act. It was used for ceremonial purposes, indicating the seriousness and devotion of the people in their worship.
What does the incense in Numbers 7:38 symbolize?
In Numbers 7:38, the incense symbolizes the prayers and worship of the people ascending to God. It reflects the idea of holiness and the presence of God, showing that offerings are both physical gifts and spiritual acts of devotion.
Why is the weight of the ladle mentioned in Numbers 7:38?
The weight of the ladle, ten shekels, is mentioned in Numbers 7:38 to indicate its value and significance as an offering. This detail underscores the importance of the gift being presented to God during the dedication of the tabernacle.

The Book of Numbers
Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders
The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.
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