Exodus 25:29

You are also to make the plates and dishes, as well as the pitchers and bowls for pouring drink offerings. Make them out of pure gold.

Study Bible

And you are to make
This phrase indicates a divine command given to Moses. The Hebrew root for "make" is "עָשָׂה" (asah), which means to do, fashion, or accomplish. This command underscores the importance of obedience to God's specific instructions. It reflects the meticulous care and dedication required in the service of God, emphasizing that worship is not a casual endeavor but a sacred duty.

its plates and dishes
The Hebrew words for "plates" (קְעָרָה, qe'arah) and "dishes" (כַּף, kaph) refer to the utensils used in the tabernacle. These items were essential for the presentation of the bread of the Presence. Historically, these utensils symbolize the provision and sustenance that God provides for His people. The use of such specific items in worship highlights the order and structure that God desires in His dwelling place.

as well as its pitchers and bowls
The "pitchers" (קָנֶה, qaneh) and "bowls" (מִזְרָק, mizraq) were used for pouring and holding drink offerings. These vessels were integral to the sacrificial system, representing the outpouring of offerings to God. The Hebrew context suggests a sense of readiness and preparation, as these items were always to be available for use in worship, symbolizing the believer's readiness to serve and honor God.

with which to pour out drink offerings
Drink offerings were a common part of ancient Near Eastern worship practices, and in the Hebrew context, they were often wine offerings poured out as a libation to God. The act of pouring out signifies total dedication and surrender to God. It is a vivid picture of the believer's life being poured out in service and devotion to the Creator, reflecting the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who poured out His life for humanity.

Make them of pure gold
Gold, in the ancient world, was a symbol of purity, value, and royalty. The Hebrew word for "pure" (טָהוֹר, tahor) emphasizes the unblemished and holy nature of these items. The use of pure gold signifies the preciousness and sanctity of the objects used in worship. It reflects the glory and majesty of God, reminding believers that their worship should be of the highest quality, reflecting the worthiness of the One they serve. The use of gold also points to the heavenly reality, as gold is often associated with the divine presence and the eternal kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God dwelled among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were on their way to the Promised Land.

4. Mount Sinai
The mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments and the detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle.

5. Drink Offerings
Ritual offerings made to God, often involving the pouring out of wine, symbolizing dedication and worship.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Holiness
The use of pure gold for the utensils signifies the holiness and purity required in worship. As believers, we are called to approach God with reverence and purity in our hearts.

Symbolism of the Drink Offering
The drink offerings symbolize the pouring out of one's life in service and dedication to God. This calls us to live sacrificially, offering our lives as a living sacrifice to God (Romans 12:1).

Attention to Detail in Worship
God's detailed instructions for the Tabernacle remind us that He cares about the details of our worship. We should strive for excellence and intentionality in our worship practices.

God's Provision and Presence
The Tabernacle and its furnishings were a constant reminder of God's provision and presence among His people. Today, we can trust in God's continual presence and provision in our lives through the Holy Spirit.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of pure gold in the Tabernacle's utensils reflect the nature of God and His expectations for worship?

2. In what ways can we offer our lives as a "drink offering" to God in our daily walk with Him?

3. How do the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle challenge us to consider the details of our own worship practices?

4. What parallels can we draw between the Tabernacle's role in the Old Testament and the role of the Church today?

5. How does understanding the symbolism of the Tabernacle's furnishings enhance our appreciation of Christ's work as described in the book of Hebrews?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 24:5-9
This passage describes the bread of the Presence, which was placed on the table in the Tabernacle, connecting to the use of the plates and dishes mentioned in Exodus 25:29.

Numbers 4:7
This verse provides further details on the service of the Tabernacle, including the care of the table and its utensils, emphasizing their sacred purpose.

Hebrews 9:1-5
The New Testament reflection on the Tabernacle and its furnishings, highlighting their symbolic significance and foreshadowing of Christ's work.