Numbers 3:47

Afrikaans 1983

Jy moet vyf silwerstukke per kop invorder; bereken volgens die standaardgewig van die heiligdom is dit elf gram per silwerstuk.

What Does This Mean?

This verse tells the Israelites to take five shekels from each person, measured by the sanctuary shekel, which is twenty gerahs. God is instructing Moses on how to collect money from the people.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your school needed money for a big project, and the teacher said each student must give five special coins to help. These coins are worth the same as twenty small pebbles. That's kind of what God is asking the Israelites to do, but for their special place of worship.

Historical Background

This verse is from the book of Numbers, written by Moses around 1400 BC. It's part of God's instructions to Moses on how to organize the Israelites, including how to collect money for the sanctuary. The Israelites were nomadic, and their economy used shekels and gerahs as their currency.

Living It Out Today

In today's context, this verse reminds us about the importance of giving to support a communal cause. For example, a community might need to raise funds to build a new community center, and each member could contribute an equal amount to help achieve this shared goal.

Topics

• sacrifice
• communal responsibility
• currency
• giving
• sanctuary
• organization

Related Verses

• Exodus 30:11-16
• Leviticus 27:16
• 1 Samuel 9:8
• Matthew 17:24
• Romans 15:26

Frequently Asked Questions

Why five shekels per person?

The number five likely represents a standard amount determined by God to ensure fairness and uniformity in contributions for the sanctuary.

What is the significance of the shekel of the sanctuary?

The shekel of the sanctuary is a standardized unit of measurement used for offerings and payments related to the sanctuary, ensuring consistency and fairness.

How does this relate to modern giving?

Just as the Israelites were instructed to contribute to their communal sanctuary, today’s communities can apply similar principles by contributing fairly to shared causes.

What is the purpose of this instruction?

The purpose is to collect funds uniformly for the sanctuary, ensuring that everyone contributes equally, which supports the communal worship and maintenance of the sanctuary.