Exodus 25:28

Make the poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold, so that the table may be carried with them.

Study Bible

Make the poles
The instruction to "make the poles" signifies the importance of preparation and readiness in the service of God. The Hebrew word for "make" is "asah," which implies a deliberate and skillful act of creation. This reflects the care and intentionality required in crafting items for sacred purposes. The poles are not merely functional; they are a testament to the dedication and precision expected in worship.

of acacia wood
Acacia wood, known for its durability and resistance to decay, symbolizes the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people. The Hebrew term "shittim" refers to this specific type of wood, which was abundant in the Sinai region. Its use in the construction of sacred objects underscores the idea that what is dedicated to God should be of the highest quality and lasting value.

and overlay them with gold
The overlaying of the poles with gold elevates their status from mere functional items to objects of beauty and reverence. Gold, in biblical symbolism, represents purity, divinity, and kingship. The Hebrew word "tsaphah" means to cover or overlay, indicating a transformation from the ordinary to the extraordinary. This act of overlaying signifies the sanctification of earthly materials for heavenly purposes.

so that the table may be carried with them
The phrase "so that the table may be carried with them" highlights the practical aspect of worship and the mobility of God's presence among His people. The table, likely referring to the Table of Showbread, was a central element in the Tabernacle, representing God's provision and fellowship. The Hebrew word "nasa" means to lift or carry, emphasizing the responsibility of the Israelites to bear the presence of God with reverence and care as they journeyed through the wilderness.

Persons / Places / Events

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

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

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary that served as the dwelling place of God among His people.

4. Acacia Wood
A durable and common wood in the Sinai region, used for constructing various elements of the Tabernacle.

5. Gold Overlay
Symbolizes purity, divinity, and the precious nature of the items used in worship.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Divine Instructions
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle remind us of the importance of following God's commands precisely.

Symbolism of Materials
Acacia wood and gold represent durability and divinity, teaching us about the eternal and holy nature of God's presence.

God's Presence Among His People
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's desire to dwell with His people, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ.

Preparation for Worship
The care and detail in constructing the Tabernacle elements highlight the reverence and preparation required in our worship today.

Carrying God's Presence
The poles for carrying the table symbolize our role in bearing God's presence into the world through our lives and actions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of acacia wood and gold in the Tabernacle construction reflect the nature of our relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship today is as reverent and obedient as the Israelites' construction of the Tabernacle?

3. How does the concept of carrying the table with poles relate to our responsibility to carry God's presence in our daily lives?

4. What parallels can we draw between the Tabernacle and the New Testament teachings about the Church as the body of Christ?

5. How can understanding the symbolism of the Tabernacle elements enhance our appreciation for the work of Christ as our High Priest?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 37:4-5
Describes the actual construction of the poles and table, emphasizing obedience to God's instructions.

Numbers 4:7-8
Details the duties of the Kohathites in carrying the sacred objects, including the table, during the Israelites' travels.

Hebrews 9:2
References the setup of the Tabernacle, including the table, as a precursor to the heavenly sanctuary.

1 Kings 6:20-22
Describes the use of gold in Solomon's Temple, showing continuity in the use of precious materials for worship.

Revelation 21:18
Describes the New Jerusalem, where gold is used, symbolizing the ultimate dwelling place of God with His people.