Exodus 26:18
And thou shalt make the boards for the tabernacle, twenty boards on the south side southward.
Exodus 26:18 (KJV)
Context
In the book of Exodus, the Israelites have been delivered from slavery in Egypt by God’s mighty hand. God leads them through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. At Mount Sinai, God gives Moses detailed instructions for the construction of the tabernacle, a portable sanctuary where God’s presence would dwell among His people. This verse is part of those specific instructions, commanding Moses to make twenty boards for the south side of the tabernacle.
Meaning
In this particular verse, God instructs Moses to make the boards for the tabernacle. These boards would serve as the foundational structure of the tabernacle, forming its walls. The verse specifically mentions the south side of the tabernacle, indicating the direction in which these boards should be placed. The tabernacle was oriented east and west, with the entrance at the east end and the Most Holy Place at the west end; the two long sides were north and south. The south side, like the north side (Exodus 26:20), required twenty boards.
The boards mentioned in Exodus 26:18 were made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold (Exodus 26:15-17). Each board was a cubit and a half broad, which made the length of the tabernacle approximately fifteen yards. The boards stood upright, were overlaid with gold, and were set in silver sockets, with two sockets under each board for its two tenons (Exodus 26:19). The choice of materials reflects the importance and grandeur of the tabernacle as a place of worship for the Lord.
The boards were joined together to form a sturdy and unified structure. Each board had two tenons, or projections, which fit into corresponding sockets, providing stability and cohesion to the entire tabernacle structure. The fulfillment of these instructions is recorded in Exodus 36:23, where Bezalel made the boards for the tabernacle, twenty boards for the south side southward, confirming that the work was done according to God’s command.
Biblical connections
The tabernacle was a significant symbol in the Old Testament, representing the dwelling place of God among His people. The detailed specifications show God’s holiness and the orderliness of approaching Him. The tabernacle’s structure, with its specific measurements and materials, points to the reality of God’s presence with His people, a theme that finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament.
Application
The construction of the boards reminds us of the importance of a strong foundation and structure in our spiritual lives. Just as the boards formed the walls of the tabernacle, we are called to build our lives upon the solid foundation of God’s Word and His principles. By studying and applying the Scriptures, we can grow in our faith and withstand the challenges of life.
The boards joined together to form a unified structure. Similarly, as followers of Christ, we are called to live in unity and fellowship with one another, supporting and encouraging each other in our faith journeys. The unity of the boards illustrates the unity of God’s people and their collective worship.
The tabernacle served as a visible reminder of God’s presence in the midst of the Israelites. As believers today, we have the privilege of experiencing an even closer relationship with God through Jesus Christ. We are called to recognize and appreciate His presence in our lives.
Reflection
Exodus 26:18 reminds us of the detailed instructions God gave to Moses for the construction of the tabernacle. It highlights the importance of unity, structure, and a strong foundation. As we consider this verse, may we be inspired to seek God’s presence, live in unity with fellow believers, and build our lives upon the unshakable foundation of His Word.
