“The tabernacle, his tent, and his covering, his taches, and his boards, his bars, his pillars, and his sockets,”
This verse is part of the narrative in the book of Exodus where God gives specific instructions to Moses regarding the construction of the Tabernacle, which was to be a portable sanctuary for worship during the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness.
Context:Before reaching Exodus 35:11, we see that in chapters 25 to 30, God gives Moses detailed instructions on how to build the Tabernacle, including its dimensions, materials, and the design of the various elements within it. In chapter 31, God appoints skilled artisans, Bezalel and Oholiab, and fills them with the Spirit of God to lead the construction.
The Tabernacle:The Tabernacle was the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their time in the wilderness. It consisted of two main parts: the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (or Holy of Holies), separated by a heavy curtain called the veil. The Tabernacle was designed to be highly portable, as the Israelites would move from place to place.
Components listed in Exodus 35:11:In this verse, we find a list of components that would be used in constructing the Tabernacle. Let’s briefly look at each of them:
- The tabernacle itself: The main structure that housed the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place.
- His tent: Refers to the inner covering or the tent that formed the ceiling and walls of the Tabernacle.
- His covering: Probably refers to the outer covering or the tent that protected the Tabernacle from the elements.
- His taches: Refers to the clasps or fasteners used to hold the various coverings and curtains together.
- His boards: The wooden panels that formed the walls of the Tabernacle.
- His bars: The bars or rods that helped stabilize and support the boards.
- His pillars: The pillars that were used to support the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place.
- His sockets: The bases or foundations on which the boards and pillars were set.
Significance:Each component of the Tabernacle had a specific purpose and significance. The construction of the Tabernacle required skilled craftsmanship, and it symbolized the importance of offering God our best in worship. The Tabernacle was a visual representation of God’s dwelling among His people, and it foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, who would serve as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity.
Application:While the Tabernacle itself is no longer in use, there are several lessons we can draw from Exodus 35:11. It reminds us of the significance of worship and giving our best to God. In our service to God and others, we should strive for excellence and use our God-given talents and skills for His glory. Additionally, the construction of the Tabernacle was a community effort, involving the collaboration of many people with diverse skills. Similarly, as members of the body of Christ, we should work together in unity, utilizing our unique gifts to build up the Church and advance God’s Kingdom.
Overall, Exodus 35:11 highlights the attention to detail and reverence that God desired in the construction of the Tabernacle. It shows us the importance of giving our best in service to God and working together in unity as a community of believers.
