Exodus 25:27

The rings are to be close to the rim, to serve as holders for the poles used to carry the table.

Study Bible

The rings
In the context of the Tabernacle, "the rings" were essential components for the mobility of sacred objects. The Hebrew word for rings, "טַבָּעֹת" (tabba'ot), signifies circular objects that symbolize eternity and continuity. These rings were not merely functional but also held spiritual significance, representing the eternal covenant between God and His people. The use of rings in the construction of the Tabernacle underscores the importance of divine order and the perpetual nature of God's presence among the Israelites.

are to be close to the rim
The phrase "close to the rim" indicates precision and intentionality in the design of the Tabernacle's furnishings. The Hebrew word for "rim," "שָׂפָה" (saphah), can also mean edge or border, suggesting a boundary that defines and protects. This placement signifies the importance of boundaries in maintaining holiness and order. In a broader spiritual sense, it reminds believers of the need to keep God's commandments close to their hearts, serving as a guide and protection in their walk of faith.

to serve as holders
The purpose of the rings "to serve as holders" highlights their functional role in the transportation of the table. The Hebrew root "תָּפַשׂ" (taphas) means to grasp or hold firmly, indicating the strength and stability required in carrying the sacred objects. This serves as a metaphor for the believer's responsibility to uphold and carry the teachings of God with diligence and care. It emphasizes the active role of the faithful in preserving and transmitting the divine truths entrusted to them.

for the poles
The "poles" were integral to the mobility of the Tabernacle, allowing the Israelites to carry the table as they journeyed through the wilderness. The Hebrew word "בַּדִּים" (baddim) refers to these poles, which were made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. This combination of materials symbolizes the union of humanity (wood) and divinity (gold), reflecting the believer's call to live a life that is both grounded in the earthly realm and elevated by divine purpose. The poles remind us of the need to be ready and willing to move according to God's direction.

used to carry the table
The phrase "used to carry the table" underscores the practical aspect of worship in the Israelite community. The table, known as the Table of Showbread, held the bread of the Presence, symbolizing God's provision and fellowship with His people. The act of carrying the table signifies the movement of God's presence with His people, a constant reminder of His guidance and sustenance. In a spiritual sense, it calls believers to carry the presence of God within them, being vessels of His grace and truth in the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions for the Tabernacle from God on Mount Sinai.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were to construct the Tabernacle as a place of worship during their journey in the wilderness.

3. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where the table was one of the sacred furnishings.

4. The Table of Showbread
A sacred piece of furniture in the Tabernacle, symbolizing God's provision and presence.

5. The Rings and Poles
Part of the design for the table, allowing it to be carried as the Israelites moved, signifying the mobility and presence of God with His people.

Teaching Points

God's Detailed Instructions
The specific instructions for the table's construction and transport reflect God's attention to detail and the importance of obedience in worship.

Symbol of God's Provision
The table, with its showbread, symbolizes God's continual provision and presence with His people, reminding us to trust in His sustenance.

Holiness and Reverence
The use of rings and poles for carrying the table underscores the holiness of God's presence and the reverence required in worship.

Mobility of God's Presence
The design allowed for the table to be moved, signifying that God's presence is not confined to one place but goes with His people.

Continuity of Worship
The instructions for the Tabernacle furnishings show a continuity in worship practices that point forward to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle furnishings reflect God's character and His expectations for worship?

2. In what ways does the table of showbread symbolize God's provision, and how can we apply this understanding to our daily lives?

3. What does the mobility of the table teach us about God's presence with His people, and how can this encourage us in our spiritual journey?

4. How does the reverence required in handling the sacred objects of the Tabernacle challenge us in our approach to worship today?

5. How do the Old Testament practices of worship, as seen in the Tabernacle, find their fulfillment in the New Testament through Christ, and what implications does this have for our faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:10-16
These verses describe the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, which also included rings and poles for transport, emphasizing the holiness and mobility of God's presence.

Numbers 4:7-8
These verses provide further instructions on how the table and its utensils were to be covered and transported, highlighting the care and reverence required in handling sacred objects.

1 Chronicles 28:19
King David's instructions for the temple furnishings, showing continuity in the sacred design from the Tabernacle to the Temple.

Hebrews 9:2
This New Testament reference to the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the table, connects the Old Covenant practices to the New Covenant in Christ.