Exodus 27:7

The poles are to be inserted into the rings so that the poles are on two sides of the altar when it is carried.

Study Bible

The poles
In the Hebrew text, the word for "poles" is "בַּדִּים" (baddim). These poles were essential for the transportation of the altar, signifying the mobility of God's presence with the Israelites. The use of poles underscores the transient nature of the Israelites' journey and God's guidance through the wilderness. Spiritually, it reminds believers that God's presence is not confined to a single place but accompanies His people wherever they go.

are to be inserted
The Hebrew verb "יָבִיאוּ" (yavi'u) implies a deliberate action. The insertion of the poles was not a casual task but a sacred duty, reflecting the care and reverence required in handling holy objects. This action symbolizes the intentionality required in our spiritual walk, emphasizing that our approach to God and His commandments should be purposeful and respectful.

into the rings
The "rings" (טַבָּעוֹת, taba'ot) were fixed to the sides of the altar, serving as holders for the poles. These rings ensured that the altar could be carried without direct contact, preserving its sanctity. Historically, this design reflects the practical needs of a nomadic people and the divine wisdom in accommodating those needs. Spiritually, it suggests the importance of boundaries and respect for the sacred, teaching us to approach God with awe and reverence.

so that the poles are on both sides of the altar
This phrase highlights the balance and symmetry required in carrying the altar. The poles on both sides ensured stability and ease of transport. Symbolically, it represents the balance needed in our spiritual lives, where faith and works, grace and truth, must be held in harmony. It also reflects the communal aspect of worship, as the altar required multiple people to carry it, reminding us of the importance of community in our faith journey.

when it is carried
The Hebrew root "נָשָׂא" (nasa) means to lift or carry. The altar's portability was crucial for the Israelites, who were constantly on the move. This mobility signifies that worship and the presence of God are not confined to a single location but are integral to every aspect of life. For believers today, it serves as a reminder that our faith should be active and dynamic, carried with us in all circumstances and places.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the altar.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were to construct the Tabernacle according to the divine instructions given to Moses.

3. Altar
A sacred structure used for sacrifices, central to the worship practices of the Israelites.

4. Poles and Rings
Components of the altar's design that facilitated its transportation, symbolizing the mobility of God's presence with His people.

5. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

Teaching Points

God's Presence is Mobile
The design of the altar with poles and rings signifies that God's presence is not confined to a single location but moves with His people. This reminds us that God is with us wherever we go.

Holiness in Worship
The detailed instructions for the altar's construction and transportation underscore the importance of reverence and holiness in our worship practices today.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Israelites' adherence to God's specific instructions for the altar serves as a model for our obedience to God's Word in our lives.

Symbolism of Sacrifice
The altar, as a place of sacrifice, points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It calls us to live sacrificially, offering our lives as living sacrifices to God.

Community and Responsibility
The communal effort required to carry the altar reflects the shared responsibility of the faith community in upholding and advancing God's work.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the mobility of the altar with its poles and rings reflect the nature of God's presence with His people, and how can this understanding impact our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship practices today maintain the reverence and holiness exemplified by the Israelites' handling of the altar?

3. How does the concept of obedience to God's specific instructions in constructing the altar apply to our lives today, particularly in areas where we might struggle with obedience?

4. Reflect on the symbolism of the altar as a place of sacrifice. How does this point to the sacrifice of Jesus, and how can we emulate this sacrificial love in our relationships and community?

5. Considering the communal effort required to transport the altar, what responsibilities do we share as a faith community in supporting and advancing God's work in our local church and beyond?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:12-15
These verses describe similar instructions for the Ark of the Covenant, emphasizing the importance of mobility and the presence of God with His people.

Numbers 4:13-14
Provides details on the duties of the Levites in transporting the altar, highlighting the sacredness and care required in handling holy objects.

Hebrews 9:1-5
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its furnishings, drawing a parallel to the heavenly realities and the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.