“And thou shalt make staves for the altar, staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with brass.”
Historical Context:In the book of Exodus, the Israelites are in the wilderness after their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. God has given specific instructions to Moses regarding the construction of the tabernacle, which includes various elements such as the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, and the courtyard. Exodus 27:6 specifically focuses on the staves or poles for the altar.
Symbolism of the Altar: The altar mentioned in this verse refers to the altar of burnt offering, which was a key component of the tabernacle. It was made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze. The altar held significant symbolism in the Israelite worship and sacrificial system. It was the place where animals were offered as sacrifices to God, symbolizing repentance, atonement, and dedication.
The Purpose of the Staves: The staves or poles mentioned in Exodus 27:6 were used to carry the altar. The altar was a large and heavy object, and as the Israelites traveled through the wilderness, it needed to be portable. The staves allowed the Levites, who were responsible for the tabernacle, to carry the altar from one location to another as the Israelites journeyed towards the Promised Land.
Material and Symbolism: The staves were made of shittim wood, also known as acacia wood, which was known for its durability. The wood was then overlaid with brass or bronze, which provided strength and protection. The choice of materials carries symbolic meaning. Shittim wood represents the humanity of Jesus, as wood often symbolizes human nature, while the overlay of brass represents His divinity and the righteousness required for the sacrifices offered on the altar.
Practical Lessons:
- Portable worship: The portable nature of the altar and the tabernacle in the wilderness serves as a reminder that worship is not confined to a specific location or building. God’s presence can be experienced anywhere and at any time.
- Sacrifice and dedication: The altar’s purpose was to facilitate sacrifices offered to God. It teaches us the importance of sacrificing our desires, dedicating our lives to God, and seeking forgiveness and reconciliation through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
- The combination of humanity and divinity: The use of shittim wood overlaid with brass reflects the dual nature of Jesus Christ as both fully human and fully divine. It reminds us of the incarnation of Christ and the redemptive work He accomplished on the cross.
Overall, Exodus 27:6 reminds us of the significance of the altar and the portable nature of worship. It teaches us about sacrifice, dedication, and the divine-human nature of Jesus Christ.
