Exodus 26:17

Two tenons must be connected to each other for each frame. Make all the frames of the tabernacle in this way.

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. Historically, these frames were made of acacia wood, a durable and resistant material, symbolizing the strength and stability of God's dwelling place among His people. The use of acacia wood also points to the wilderness setting, as this was a common tree in the Sinai region.

is to have
This phrase indicates a command or instruction, emphasizing the precision and intentionality in the construction of the tabernacle. It reflects the divine order and meticulous care that God required in His dwelling place, symbolizing His holiness and the importance of obedience to His commands.

two tenons
The Hebrew word for "tenons" is "יָד" (yad), which literally means "hand." In this context, it refers to projections or pegs that fit into corresponding sockets to join the frames together. This imagery of "hands" joining together can be seen as a symbol of unity and cooperation among the Israelites, as they worked together to create a sacred space for God's presence.

joined to one another
This phrase highlights the concept of connection and unity. The joining of the tenons signifies the interdependence of each part of the tabernacle, reflecting the unity and harmony that should exist within the community of believers. It serves as a reminder that each member of the body of Christ is essential and must work together to fulfill God's purposes.

Do the same for all the frames
The repetition of this instruction underscores the importance of consistency and uniformity in the construction of the tabernacle. It reflects the idea that God's standards are unchanging and that His people are called to maintain a consistent and faithful walk with Him. This consistency in the tabernacle's construction can also be seen as a metaphor for the consistency required in the believer's life.

of the tabernacle
The Hebrew word for "tabernacle" is "מִשְׁכָּן" (mishkan), meaning "dwelling place." The tabernacle was the portable sanctuary where God's presence dwelled among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. It served as a physical representation of God's desire to be with His people and foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14). The tabernacle's construction and design were divinely ordained, reflecting the heavenly reality and pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with humanity.

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 that the Israelites used during their journey in the wilderness, serving as a place of worship and the dwelling place of God among His people.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were on their journey 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. Tenons
Wooden pegs or projections used to join the frames of the tabernacle, ensuring stability and unity in its structure.

Teaching Points

Unity and Connection
The two tenons symbolize the importance of unity and connection among God's people. Just as the frames of the tabernacle were joined together, believers are called to be united in purpose and spirit.

Attention to Detail
God's instructions for the tabernacle were precise and detailed, reflecting His desire for order and excellence. This teaches us to approach our service to God with diligence and care.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The tabernacle serves as a physical representation of God's presence among His people. It reminds us of the importance of creating spaces in our lives where God can dwell.

Spiritual Foundation
The tenons provided stability to the tabernacle, just as a strong spiritual foundation provides stability in our faith journey. We are encouraged to root ourselves in God's Word and truth.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The tabernacle points forward to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate dwelling place of God among humanity. Our faith is centered on Him as the fulfillment of the tabernacle's purpose.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the tabernacle reflect God's desire for order and precision in our spiritual lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our lives are "fitted together" like the frames of the tabernacle, promoting unity within the body of Christ?

3. How does the concept of the tabernacle as a dwelling place for God challenge us to create spaces for God's presence in our daily lives?

4. What parallels can we draw between the stability provided by the tenons in the tabernacle and the stability we find in a strong spiritual foundation?

5. How does understanding the tabernacle's role in the Old Testament enhance our appreciation of Christ's work as described in the New Testament?

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 Corinthians 3:16-17
Paul speaks of believers as the temple of God, drawing a parallel to the tabernacle as a dwelling place for God's presence.

Ephesians 2:19-22
Paul describes the church as a spiritual building, with Christ as the cornerstone, emphasizing unity and purpose.