Exodus 36:18

He also made fifty bronze clasps to join the tent together as a unit.

Study Bible

He made
This phrase indicates the craftsmanship and dedication involved in the construction of the Tabernacle. The Hebrew root for "made" is עָשָׂה (asah), which implies not just creation but also careful and purposeful action. This reflects the divine inspiration and skill endowed upon the artisans, particularly Bezalel and Oholiab, who were filled with the Spirit of God to carry out this sacred task (Exodus 31:1-6). It serves as a reminder of the importance of using our God-given talents for His glory.

fifty bronze clasps
The number "fifty" in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or fullness, as seen in the Jubilee year (Leviticus 25:10). The use of "bronze" is significant; in biblical times, bronze was a symbol of strength and durability. The Hebrew word for bronze is נְחֹשֶׁת (nechosheth), which was a common material for tools and weapons, indicating resilience. The clasps were essential for holding the structure together, symbolizing unity and strength in the community of believers.

to fasten the tent together
The purpose of the clasps was to join the curtains of the Tabernacle, ensuring that the tent was a single, cohesive unit. The Hebrew verb חָבַר (chabar) means to join or bind together, emphasizing the importance of unity in the body of Christ. Just as the clasps held the Tabernacle together, believers are called to be united in faith and purpose, working together to build the spiritual house of God (Ephesians 2:21-22).

as a unit
This phrase underscores the concept of oneness and harmony. The Tabernacle was not just a collection of individual parts but a unified whole, representing the dwelling place of God among His people. In the New Testament, this unity is mirrored in the Church, the body of Christ, where each member plays a vital role (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). The Tabernacle's construction serves as a powerful metaphor for the Church's mission to be a unified, holy dwelling for the Lord.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle. They were filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, constructed according to the divine pattern given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

3. The Israelites
The people of God who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were journeying through the wilderness to the Promised Land.

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

5. The Bronze Clasps
These were used to join the curtains of the Tabernacle, symbolizing unity and completeness in the structure.

Teaching Points

Unity in Diversity
Just as the bronze clasps unified the various parts of the Tabernacle, believers are called to unity in the body of Christ, despite diverse gifts and roles.

Divine Order and Design
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle remind us that God is a God of order and purpose. Our lives should reflect His order and design.

The Role of Skilled Workmanship
God values skilled work and craftsmanship, as seen in the roles of Bezalel and Oholiab. We should use our talents and skills for God's glory.

Symbolism of Completeness
The clasps symbolize completeness and wholeness. In Christ, we find our completeness and are held together by His love and purpose.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Israelites' adherence to God's detailed instructions for the Tabernacle construction is a model of obedience and faithfulness for us today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Bezalel and Oholiab in the construction of the Tabernacle inspire you to use your skills for God's purposes?

2. In what ways can the unity of the Tabernacle, held together by the bronze clasps, be a model for unity within the church today?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's order and design in your life. How did it impact your faith journey?

4. How can the concept of divine craftsmanship in the Tabernacle encourage you to pursue excellence in your work or ministry?

5. What steps can you take to ensure that your life reflects obedience to God's instructions, similar to the Israelites' obedience in building the Tabernacle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31:1-11
This passage describes the calling and equipping of Bezalel and Oholiab, emphasizing the divine inspiration behind the craftsmanship of the Tabernacle.

Ephesians 4:16
This New Testament verse speaks of the body of Christ being joined and held together, similar to how the clasps held the Tabernacle together, symbolizing unity in the church.

1 Corinthians 12:12-27
Paul discusses the unity and diversity of the body of Christ, paralleling the unity achieved in the Tabernacle through the bronze clasps.