Topical Bible: Shekel: Sanctuary Revenues Paid In

◄ Shekel: Sanctuary Revenues Paid In ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

The term "shekel" in the context of sanctuary revenues refers to a specific weight and monetary unit used in ancient Israel, particularly in the service and maintenance of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. The shekel was a standard of weight and currency, integral to the religious and economic life of the Israelites.

Biblical Foundation

The shekel is first mentioned in the context of sanctuary revenues in Exodus 30:13-16, where God commands Moses to collect a half-shekel as a ransom for each Israelite counted in the census: "Each one who crosses over to those already counted is to give a half shekel, according to the sanctuary shekel, which weighs twenty gerahs. This half shekel is an offering to the LORD" (Exodus 30:13). This offering was to be used for the service of the Tent of Meeting, ensuring that the sanctuary was maintained and that the Israelites were reminded of their covenant relationship with God.

Purpose and Use

The half-shekel offering served multiple purposes. Primarily, it was a means of atonement, symbolizing the Israelites' redemption and their dedication to God. The funds collected were used for the upkeep of the sanctuary, including the purchase of materials and supplies necessary for the daily operations and sacrifices. This ensured that the worship of Yahweh could continue uninterrupted and that the sacred space remained holy and functional.

Standardization and Value

The "sanctuary shekel" was a standardized weight, equivalent to twenty gerahs. This standardization was crucial for maintaining fairness and consistency in the collection of offerings. The shekel's value was significant enough to be a meaningful contribution from each individual, yet not so burdensome as to exclude the poorer members of the community. This egalitarian approach underscored the communal responsibility of all Israelites to support the sanctuary.

Historical Context

Throughout Israel's history, the shekel continued to play a vital role in religious and civic life. During the time of the monarchy and the Second Temple period, the shekel remained a key unit of currency for temple dues and other religious obligations. The consistent use of the shekel for sanctuary revenues highlights the enduring importance of the temple as the center of Israelite worship and community life.

Theological Significance

Theologically, the shekel offering represents the principle that every individual has a role in supporting the worship and work of God. It emphasizes the communal nature of faith, where each person's contribution, regardless of size, is valued and necessary. The shekel as a sanctuary revenue underscores the belief that material resources are to be used in service to God, reflecting a life of stewardship and devotion.

In summary, the shekel as a unit of sanctuary revenue is a testament to the structured and communal approach to worship in ancient Israel. It reflects the Israelites' commitment to maintaining their covenant with God and ensuring the continuity of their religious practices through collective responsibility and contribution.

Nave's Topical Index

Exodus 30:13
This they shall give, every one that passes among them that are numbered, half a shekel after the shekel of the sanctuary: (a shekel is twenty gerahs:) an half shekel shall be the offering of the LORD.
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Nehemiah 10:32
Also we made ordinances for us, to charge ourselves yearly with the third part of a shekel for the service of the house of our God;
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Library

Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House ...
... as he placed the emperor's poll-tax beside the half-shekel of the sanctuary, and
the ... joint-stock companies, which bought at public auction the revenues of a ...
/.../sketches of jewish social life/chapter 4 travelling in palestineroads.htm

The Cleansing of the Temple - the Sign,' which is not a Sign.
... double qolbon; one for his half-shekel of tribute ... and therefore partly within the
Sanctuary itself) to ... violence the common priests of their official revenues. ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter v the cleansing of.htm

Chaldaean Civilization
... cedar panels in the ruins of a sanctuary dedicated to ... himself, and from which he
drew the revenues; the other ... girl would be valued at a silver shekel by weight ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm