Exodus 25:15

The poles are to remain in the rings of the ark; they must not be removed.

Study Bible

The poles
The Hebrew word for "poles" is "בַּדִּים" (baddim), which refers to the long, wooden staves used to carry the Ark of the Covenant. These poles were made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, symbolizing both the humanity and divinity of Christ. The poles represent the means by which God's presence is carried among His people, emphasizing the importance of reverence and holiness in approaching God.

are to remain
The phrase "are to remain" underscores the permanence and constancy required in the handling of the Ark. The Hebrew root "שָׁאַר" (sha'ar) implies a sense of enduring presence. This permanence signifies the unchanging nature of God's covenant with His people and His continual presence with them. It serves as a reminder that God's laws and promises are not temporary but are to be upheld consistently.

in the rings
The "rings" (Hebrew: "טַבָּעוֹת" - tabba'ot) were gold fixtures attached to the Ark, designed to hold the poles. These rings ensured that the Ark could be transported without being touched directly, highlighting the holiness of the Ark and the need for separation between the divine and the profane. The rings symbolize the boundaries set by God to protect His holiness and to teach His people about the sacredness of His presence.

of the ark
The "ark" (Hebrew: "אֲרוֹן" - aron) refers to the Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred object in the Israelite religion, representing God's throne on earth. It contained the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna, symbolizing God's covenant, authority, and provision. The Ark is a powerful typology of Christ, who embodies the fulfillment of the Law, the ultimate authority, and the bread of life.

they must not be removed
This command, "they must not be removed," emphasizes the sanctity and inviolability of God's instructions. The Hebrew verb "סוּר" (sur) means to turn aside or depart, indicating that deviation from God's commands is not permissible. This directive teaches the importance of obedience and the need to adhere strictly to God's instructions. It serves as a reminder that God's ways are perfect, and His commands are given for the protection and blessing of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the construction of the Ark of the Covenant from God on Mount Sinai.

2. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's covenant with Israel.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were to follow His commandments and carry the Ark during their journey.

4. Mount Sinai
The mountain where God gave Moses the instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the Ark.

5. Tabernacle
The portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where the Ark was housed.

Teaching Points

Reverence for God's Instructions
The command to keep the poles in the rings signifies the importance of adhering to God's specific instructions. This teaches us to respect and follow God's Word meticulously.

Symbol of God's Presence
The Ark, with its poles, symbolizes God's presence among His people. We are reminded that God is with us, guiding and directing our paths.

Holiness and Separation
The permanence of the poles indicates the Ark's holiness and the need for separation from common use. As believers, we are called to live lives set apart for God's purposes.

Preparedness for Movement
The poles being permanently attached suggest readiness for movement. We should be prepared to follow God's leading at any moment, being flexible and obedient to His call.

Community Responsibility
The carrying of the Ark was a communal task, requiring the Levites to work together. This reflects the importance of unity and shared responsibility in the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the instruction to keep the poles in the rings of the Ark teach us about the nature of God's commands?

2. How can the concept of the Ark as a symbol of God's presence influence our daily walk with Him?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are living lives that are set apart for God's purposes, as the Ark was set apart?

4. How can we cultivate a readiness to move and act according to God's leading in our personal and communal lives?

5. What lessons can we learn from the communal responsibility of carrying the Ark that apply to our roles within the church today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 4:5-6
Describes the specific instructions for covering the Ark when the camp is set out, emphasizing the sacredness and the need for careful handling.

1 Samuel 6:19
Illustrates the consequences of mishandling the Ark, highlighting the importance of following God's instructions precisely.

Hebrews 9:4
Mentions the contents of the Ark, connecting the Old Testament practices to the New Testament understanding of God's covenant.

2 Samuel 6:6-7
The incident with Uzzah touching the Ark, reinforcing the holiness and the need for reverence in handling sacred objects.

Revelation 11:19
Symbolically references the Ark in the heavenly temple, showing its enduring significance in God's plan.