“And five bars for the boards of the side of the tabernacle, and five bars for the boards of the side of the tabernacle toward the west.”
Context: The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and is part of the Pentateuch, which includes the first five books of the Old Testament. The events in Exodus take place after the Israelites’ enslavement in Egypt and narrate their deliverance through the leadership of Moses. In this particular verse, the focus is on the construction of the Tabernacle, a portable place of worship that God instructed the Israelites to build during their journey in the wilderness.
Tabernacle and its Significance: The Tabernacle was a central aspect of Israelite worship during their time in the wilderness. God provided detailed instructions to Moses on how to construct it, including its design, dimensions, and materials. It was a symbol of God’s presence among His people, and its construction was crucial for establishing a proper system of worship and sacrifice.
Boards and Bars of the Tabernacle: In this verse, the focus is on the boards and bars that were used to construct the Tabernacle’s framework. The boards were vertical wooden panels that formed the walls of the Tabernacle, and the bars were horizontal support beams used to hold the boards together. The Tabernacle was constructed using a series of interconnected boards and bars that formed a secure and sturdy structure.
Symbolism of Unity and Fellowship: The use of boards and bars in constructing the Tabernacle holds symbolic significance. The boards represent individual believers, and the bars represent the bonds of fellowship and unity that hold the community of believers together. This symbolism reflects the importance of unity among God’s people, working together to create a sacred place where they can meet with Him.
The Number Five: The verse mentions that there were five bars for the boards on both sides of the Tabernacle. The number five often carries significance in the Bible. In biblical numerology, the number five is associated with God’s grace, favour, and goodness. It may signify the divine grace and favour bestowed upon the Israelites, allowing them to construct a place of worship where they could experience God’s presence and blessings.
Application to Our Lives: As Christians, we can draw important lessons from Exodus 36:9. The construction of the Tabernacle required meticulous planning, precise execution, and the cooperation of many skilled individuals. Similarly, building a community of faith and worship today requires unity, fellowship, and the contributions of different gifts and talents. Just as the boards and bars worked together to create a sacred space for God’s presence, we are called to work together in unity, recognising our individual roles in the body of Christ.
Conclusion: Exodus 36:9 provides us with a glimpse into the construction of the Tabernacle and the importance of unity, fellowship, and the coordination of efforts in God’s work. As we study this verse, may we be reminded of the significance of working together as a community of believers and the grace and favour God bestows upon His people when they come together for His purposes. Let us seek to build a strong and united community of faith, always striving to experience God’s presence and blessings in our lives and in the midst of our gatherings for worship and service.
