Topical Encyclopedia The "Shekel of the Sanctuary" is a term found in the Old Testament, referring to a specific standard of weight and value used in the religious and ceremonial contexts of ancient Israel. This term is significant in understanding the economic and religious practices of the Israelites, as well as the broader cultural and theological implications of their covenant relationship with God.Biblical References and Context The Shekel of the Sanctuary is first mentioned in the context of the census tax in Exodus 30:13: "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." . This passage establishes the shekel as a unit of currency and weight that is directly associated with the tabernacle, the dwelling place of God among His people. The sanctuary shekel is also referenced in Leviticus 27:25, where it is used as a standard for valuations: "Every valuation will be according to the sanctuary shekel, twenty gerahs to the shekel." . This indicates that the sanctuary shekel was a fixed standard, ensuring consistency and fairness in religious and economic transactions. Historical and Cultural Significance The shekel was a common unit of weight and currency in the ancient Near East, but the "Shekel of the Sanctuary" held a special status. It was likely a more precise and possibly heavier standard than the common shekel, reflecting its sacred purpose. The use of the sanctuary shekel underscores the importance of integrity and holiness in dealings related to worship and offerings to God. The sanctuary shekel's weight of twenty gerahs is mentioned multiple times, emphasizing its role as a divine standard. This standardization was crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sacrificial system and the temple economy, ensuring that offerings and tithes were given in a manner that was pleasing to God. Theological Implications The concept of the Shekel of the Sanctuary highlights the intersection of the sacred and the secular in Israelite society. It serves as a reminder that all aspects of life, including economic transactions, are under the sovereignty of God and should be conducted with reverence and honesty. The use of a specific, divinely ordained standard for weights and measures reflects the broader biblical principle that God is a God of order and justice. Furthermore, the sanctuary shekel symbolizes the idea that the people of Israel were to be set apart, even in their economic practices. By adhering to the sanctuary shekel, the Israelites demonstrated their obedience to God's commandments and their commitment to upholding His standards in every area of life. Conclusion The Shekel of the Sanctuary is a testament to the meticulous care with which God instructed His people to approach worship and community life. It serves as a tangible representation of the holiness and order that God desires from His people, reminding them of their unique covenant relationship with Him. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Shekel of the SanctuarySHEKEL OF THE SANCTUARY; SACRED SHEKEL (sheqel ha-qodhesh (Numbers 7 passim)): The same as the silver shekel mentioned under SHEKEL (which see), except in Exodus 38:24, where it is used in measuring gold. The term is used for offerings made for sacred purposes. Library Princely Service. The Early Ministry in Judea The Second Cleansing of the Temple The Fourth Day in Passion-Week - Jesus in his Last Sabbatic Rest ... All Joy in all Trials Travelling in Palestine --Roads, Inns, Hospitality, Custom-House ... Jesus Attends the First Passover of his Ministry. A Persuasive to Steadfastness I am Joseph of Arimath??a, who Begged from Pilate the Body of the ... In his Temple Resources What was the sanctuary shekel? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the modern equivalents of biblical weights and measures? | GotQuestions.org How many times did Jesus cleanse the temple? Why did He cleanse the temple? | GotQuestions.org Shekel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Shekel of Different Standards of the King's Weight Shekel of Different Standards of the Sanctuary Shekel used to Weigh: Cinnamon Shekel: A Weight, Equal to Twenty Gerahs Shekel: Fractions of, Used in Currency Shekel: Sanctuary Revenues Paid In Related Terms Meat-offering (111 Occurrences) Meal-offering (120 Occurrences) |
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