"And thou shalt make forty sockets of silver under the twenty boards; two sockets under one board for his two tenons, and two sockets under another board for his two tenons."
Exodus 26 describes the instructions given to Moses by God regarding the construction of the tabernacle, a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. In this particular verse, God provides specific instructions regarding the sockets of silver that were to be made and placed under the twenty boards of the tabernacle.
The tabernacle was a sacred structure divided into two main sections: the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (also known as the Holy of Holies). These sections were separated by a veil (Exodus 26:33). The boards mentioned in Exodus 26:19 formed the framework of the tabernacle and were made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold (Exodus 26:15-16).
Construction details:God instructs the Israelites to make forty sockets of silver. These sockets were to be placed under the twenty boards, with two sockets supporting each board. The purpose of these sockets was to provide a stable foundation for the tabernacle, ensuring its structural integrity.
The use of silver for the sockets is significant. Silver often symbolises redemption in the Bible. In the New Testament, Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16). Additionally, in Exodus 30:11-16, God commands Moses to collect a half-shekel of silver from each individual as a ransom for their souls, emphasising the value of redemption.
The number forty, as mentioned in Exodus 26:19, is also noteworthy. Forty often signifies a period of testing, preparation, or probation. For instance, the Israelites wandered in the wilderness for forty years (Numbers 14:34) and Jesus fasted in the wilderness for forty days (Matthew 4:2).
By incorporating these symbolic elements into the construction of the tabernacle, God communicated important spiritual principles to the Israelites. The silver sockets under the boards served as a reminder of redemption and the price paid for their deliverance from Egypt. They also highlighted the need for a firm foundation, both physically and spiritually, as the Israelites worshiped and sought God’s presence within the tabernacle.
Overall, Exodus 26:19 teaches us the significance of redemption, the importance of a solid foundation, and the symbolism intricately woven into the construction of the tabernacle as a place of worship and communion with God.
