“And thou shalt overlay the boards with gold, and make their rings of gold for places for the bars: and thou shalt overlay the bars with gold.”
In this verse, we find a specific instruction given by God to Moses regarding the construction of the tabernacle, a portable dwelling place for God’s presence during the Israelites’ journey in the wilderness. The tabernacle consisted of various components, including the framework or boards that formed its structure.
The verse begins with the command to overlay the boards with gold. The boards mentioned here were wooden planks that formed the walls of the tabernacle. They were to be covered or overlaid with gold, symbolizing the preciousness and value of the dwelling place of God. Gold is often associated with royalty, divinity, and purity, signifying the holiness and majesty of God’s presence among His people.
Next, the verse instructs the construction of rings of gold for the boards. These rings would serve as attachment points for the bars that would hold the boards together. The rings of gold were likely designed to be durable and secure, ensuring the stability and integrity of the tabernacle’s structure.
Finally, the verse emphasizes that the bars connecting the boards should also be overlaid with gold. This further highlights the preciousness and sanctity of the tabernacle. The gold overlay on the bars reinforces the notion that every aspect of the tabernacle was to be adorned and set apart for the worship and service of God.
Symbolically, the use of gold throughout the construction of the tabernacle represents the idea of offering our best and most valuable possessions to God. It signifies that when we approach God and seek His presence, we should do so with reverence, awe, and a heart willing to offer Him our utmost devotion.
Overall, Exodus 26:29 underscores the importance of creating a sacred space and dedicating it to God’s presence. It teaches us to honor and reverence God, recognizing His holiness and worthiness of our best efforts and offerings.
