Exodus 26:16

Each frame is to be ten cubits long and a cubit and a half wide.

Study Bible

Each frame
The Hebrew word for "frame" is "קֶרֶשׁ" (qeresh), which refers to a board or plank. In the context of the Tabernacle, these frames were the structural components that formed the walls. The use of frames signifies stability and order, reflecting God's desire for His dwelling place to be both sturdy and meticulously constructed. This meticulous attention to detail underscores the importance of reverence and precision in worship.

is to be
This phrase indicates a command, reflecting the divine authority behind the instructions. The construction of the Tabernacle was not left to human discretion but was directed by God Himself. This highlights the principle that worship and the means by which we approach God are determined by His revelation, not human innovation.

ten cubits long
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to the length of a forearm, about 18 inches or 45 centimeters. Thus, ten cubits would be approximately 15 feet or 4.5 meters. The specific dimensions indicate a grand and imposing structure, suitable for the dwelling place of the Almighty. The number ten often symbolizes completeness in the Bible, suggesting that the Tabernacle was a complete and perfect dwelling for God among His people.

and a cubit and a half wide
This width, approximately 27 inches or 68 centimeters, provided the necessary support and stability for the frames. The precision of these measurements reflects the order and harmony inherent in God's creation. It also serves as a reminder that God is a God of order, not chaos, and that His instructions are purposeful and intentional.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, designed according to divine specifications.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were to construct the Tabernacle as a place of worship and meeting with God.

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

5. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled artisans appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings.

Teaching Points

Divine Precision
God's instructions for the Tabernacle were precise, reflecting His order and holiness. This teaches us the importance of following God's guidance in our lives with attention to detail and reverence.

Symbolism of Measurements
The specific measurements of the Tabernacle's frames symbolize God's perfect design and the importance of structure in our spiritual lives. We should seek to build our lives according to God's blueprint.

Temporary Dwelling
The Tabernacle was a temporary structure, reminding us that our earthly lives are temporary and that we should focus on eternal things.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle was the place where God's presence dwelled among His people. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and we should live in a way that honors His presence within us.

Community Involvement
The construction of the Tabernacle involved the entire community of Israel, highlighting the importance of communal worship and service in the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the precision of God's instructions for the Tabernacle reflect His character, and how can we apply this understanding to our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the temporary nature of the Tabernacle remind us of our own journey on earth, and how should this influence our priorities?

3. How does the concept of God dwelling among His people in the Tabernacle connect to the New Testament understanding of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit?

4. What can we learn from the communal effort in building the Tabernacle about the importance of community in our spiritual growth and service?

5. How do the measurements and design of the Tabernacle point to the greater reality of Christ's work and the heavenly sanctuary, and how can this deepen our worship and understanding of God's plan?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the broader context of the Tabernacle's construction, detailing God's specific instructions to Moses.

Hebrews 9
This New Testament passage reflects on the significance of the Tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ's work and the heavenly sanctuary.

1 Kings 6
Describes the construction of Solomon's Temple, which was a more permanent structure that followed the pattern of the Tabernacle.

John 1:14
The concept of God dwelling among His people is fulfilled in Jesus, who "tabernacled" among us.

Revelation 21:3
The ultimate fulfillment of God's dwelling with humanity is seen in the new heaven and new earth.