“And for the sides of the tabernacle westward he made six boards.”
Historical Context:The book of Exodus describes the events following the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. During their time in the wilderness, God instructed Moses to build a sanctuary, known as the Tabernacle, where the Israelites could worship Him and offer sacrifices. This Tabernacle was designed to be a symbolic representation of God’s dwelling among His people.
Significance of the Tabernacle:The Tabernacle was a central aspect of Israelite worship. It was divided into two main sections: the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies). The various elements of the Tabernacle, including the boards mentioned in Exodus 36:26, were carefully constructed according to God’s specific instructions to Moses.
Specific Focus:Boards of the Tabernacle: Exodus 36:26 specifically mentions the boards of the Tabernacle. These boards were made of acacia wood and played a crucial role in forming the framework of the Tabernacle’s walls. The boards were set up vertically, standing on their edges, and joined together to form the sides of the Tabernacle structure.
The Symbolism of the Boards:Every element of the Tabernacle holds symbolic significance. The boards, made of durable acacia wood, represent the strength and enduring nature of God’s dwelling place among His people. They also serve as a reminder of the steadfastness and unchanging character of God.
Additionally, the fact that there were six boards mentioned here points to the order and precision with which God instructed the construction of the Tabernacle. Throughout the Bible, the number six is associated with human effort and imperfection, while the number seven symbolizes completeness and perfection. So, the six boards being used in the Tabernacle could indicate that although humans are involved in the construction, it is ultimately God who brings perfection to the work.
Application to Our Lives:As believers, we can draw several lessons from Exodus 36:26 and the construction of the Tabernacle:
- Obedience to God’s Instructions: Just as the Israelites followed God’s specific instructions to construct the Tabernacle, we should be diligent in obeying God’s Word and living according to His will.
- God’s Dwelling Place: In the New Testament, we learn that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). As such, we should ensure that our lives are pure and holy, welcoming God’s presence within us.
- Unity and Cooperation: The boards were joined together to form the walls of the Tabernacle. Similarly, in the body of Christ, we are called to work together in unity, supporting and encouraging one another in our faith and service to God.
- Strength in Christ: The acacia wood boards represented strength. In our spiritual lives, we can find strength in Christ, relying on His grace and power to overcome challenges and grow in our faith.
In conclusion, Exodus 36:26 may seem like a simple verse about the construction of the Tabernacle, but it holds profound spiritual lessons for us today. It reminds us of God’s desire to dwell among His people, His call for obedience, and the importance of unity and strength in Christ as we journey through life.
