“And for the sides of the tabernacle westward thou shalt make six boards.”
Context: The book of Exodus describes the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and their journey toward the Promised Land. In this particular chapter, God gives Moses detailed instructions regarding the construction of the tabernacle, a portable dwelling place for His presence among the people.
The Tabernacle: The tabernacle was a sacred structure consisting of various components, including the outer court, the holy place, and the Most Holy Place (the Holy of Holies). It was made of specific materials and carefully designed according to God’s instructions. The six boards mentioned in Exodus 26:27 were part of the framework for the tabernacle.
Symbolism of the Tabernacle: The tabernacle served as a symbol of God’s presence in the midst of His people. It foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, who would be the ultimate manifestation of God’s dwelling among humanity (John 1:14). The tabernacle also pointed to the heavenly reality, representing the spiritual truth that believers are now the dwelling place of God through the indwelling Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16).
The Six Boards: These six boards were specifically intended for the western side of the tabernacle. The number six often represents incompleteness or imperfection in biblical numerology. Therefore, some scholars suggest that the six boards on the western side of the tabernacle symbolize the imperfections and incompleteness of humanity in the presence of God. It highlights the need for God’s grace and intervention to bridge the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God.
Application: As believers today, we can draw lessons from Exodus 26:27. Firstly, it reminds us of God’s desire to dwell among His people. Just as God instructed the Israelites to construct the tabernacle, He desires to have a personal and intimate relationship with us. Secondly, the imperfection symbolized by the number six emphasizes our need for God’s grace and salvation through Jesus Christ. It humbles us and reminds us that we are entirely dependent on God’s mercy and forgiveness.
In conclusion, Exodus 26:27 describes the construction of the tabernacle and its framework. The six boards on the western side of the tabernacle serve as a reminder of our human imperfections and our dependence on God’s grace. It points to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s dwelling among His people through Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers today.
