Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the term "charger" refers to a large, flat dish or platter used for various purposes, including religious offerings and ceremonies. The use of chargers is particularly noted in the context of the Tabernacle, where they played a significant role in the offerings made by the leaders of Israel.Biblical References: The primary reference to chargers in the context of the Tabernacle is found in the Book of Numbers, where the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel brought offerings for the dedication of the altar. Each leader presented a charger as part of their offering: · Numbers 7:13 : "His offering was one silver dish weighing 130 shekels, one silver basin weighing 70 shekels, according to the sanctuary shekel, both filled with fine flour mixed with oil for a grain offering." This passage is part of a larger narrative in Numbers 7, where each tribal leader brought identical offerings, including a silver charger, a silver bowl, and a gold pan, among other items. The chargers were filled with fine flour mixed with oil, signifying a grain offering to the Lord. Symbolism and Significance: The use of chargers in the dedication of the Tabernacle highlights several important themes in the biblical narrative: 1. Dedication and Worship: The presentation of chargers as part of the offerings underscores the importance of dedication and worship in the life of the Israelite community. The offerings were a tangible expression of devotion and reverence towards God, acknowledging His sovereignty and provision. 2. Unity and Equality: Each tribal leader brought the same offering, including a charger of equal weight and value. This uniformity symbolizes the unity and equality of the tribes before God, emphasizing that all were equally responsible for and committed to the worship and service of the Lord. 3. Sanctity and Purity: The materials and contents of the chargers—silver and fine flour mixed with oil—reflect the sanctity and purity required in offerings to God. Silver, a precious metal, signifies purity and redemption, while the fine flour and oil represent sustenance and the anointing of the Holy Spirit. 4. Covenantal Relationship: The act of offering chargers as part of the dedication ceremony reinforces the covenantal relationship between God and His people. It serves as a reminder of the promises and obligations inherent in this divine covenant, where the Israelites are called to be a holy nation set apart for God's purposes. Historical and Cultural Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, chargers were commonly used in both domestic and religious settings. Their inclusion in the Tabernacle offerings reflects the broader cultural practices of the time, where valuable items were often dedicated to deities as acts of worship and veneration. The specific mention of the weight and material of the chargers in the biblical text also indicates the precision and care with which these offerings were made, adhering to the standards set forth by God for worship in the Tabernacle. Conclusion: The chargers dedicated to the Tabernacle serve as a profound testament to the Israelites' commitment to God and their desire to honor Him through their offerings. These items, though seemingly mundane, carry deep spiritual significance, embodying themes of worship, unity, purity, and covenantal faithfulness that resonate throughout the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 7:13,19,25,31,37,43,49,55,61,67,73,79,84,85And his offering was one silver charger, the weight thereof was an hundred and thirty shekels, one silver bowl of seventy shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary; both of them were full of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering: Nave's Topical Index Library A Peal of Bells Solomon's Temple Spiritualized Resources Why is Jesus going to return on a white horse? | GotQuestions.orgCharger: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |