Exodus 36:27

He made six frames for the rear of the tabernacle, the west side,

Study Bible

For the rear of the tabernacle
The phrase "for the rear of the tabernacle" indicates the specific part of the sacred structure being addressed. The tabernacle, known in Hebrew as "mishkan," meaning "dwelling place," was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. The rear, or back, of the tabernacle was a critical part of its design, symbolizing the completeness and protection of God's presence. The rear section, being the most hidden, can be seen as a metaphor for the mystery and holiness of God, who dwells among His people yet remains beyond full human comprehension.

the west side
"The west side" of the tabernacle holds particular significance in biblical symbolism. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the west was often associated with the end of the day and, metaphorically, with the end of life or the culmination of a journey. In the context of the tabernacle, the west side was the direction of the Holy of Holies, the most sacred part of the tabernacle where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. This orientation underscores the journey of faith, moving from the east (beginning) to the west (completion), symbolizing the believer's journey towards the presence of God.

he made six frames
The construction detail "he made six frames" refers to the craftsmanship and divine instruction given to Bezalel and Oholiab, the chief artisans of the tabernacle. The Hebrew word for "frames" is "qeresh," which can also mean boards or planks. The number six, often associated with human effort and incompleteness (as man was created on the sixth day), here signifies the human role in constructing a dwelling for the divine. The frames provided structural integrity and support, symbolizing the strength and stability of God's covenant with His people. The meticulous attention to detail in the tabernacle's construction reflects the importance of obedience and reverence in worship, as well as the beauty and order inherent in God's design.

Persons / Places / Events

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

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

3. The Tabernacle
A portable sanctuary that served as the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

4. The West Side of the Tabernacle
The specific location mentioned in this verse, where six frames were constructed as part of the Tabernacle's structure.

5. The Israelites
The people of God, who contributed materials and labor for the construction of the Tabernacle.

Teaching Points

God's Detailed Instructions
The specific instructions for the Tabernacle's construction highlight God's attention to detail and His desire for order and beauty in worship. This teaches us the importance of following God's guidance in our lives.

Community Contribution
The construction of the Tabernacle involved the entire community of Israel, emphasizing the value of collective effort and unity in fulfilling God's purposes.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The Tabernacle serves as a symbol of God's presence among His people. As believers, we are called to be living temples, reflecting God's presence in our lives.

Obedience and Faithfulness
The Israelites' obedience in constructing the Tabernacle according to God's specifications demonstrates the importance of faithfulness in carrying out God's commands.

Spiritual Foundations
Just as the frames provided structural support for the Tabernacle, our lives need a strong spiritual foundation built on God's Word and principles.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the Tabernacle reflect God's desire for order and beauty in worship, and how can we apply this to our own worship practices today?

2. In what ways can we, as a community of believers, contribute to building God's kingdom, similar to how the Israelites contributed to the construction of the Tabernacle?

3. How does the concept of the Tabernacle as a dwelling place for God's presence challenge us to live as temples of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' obedience in following God's detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, and how can we apply these lessons to our own obedience to God's Word?

5. How can we ensure that our spiritual foundations are strong and secure, much like the frames that supported the Tabernacle, and what role does Scripture play in this process?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions given by God to Moses regarding the construction of the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priestly garments.

Hebrews 9
This chapter in the New Testament discusses the significance of the Tabernacle and its role as a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice 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.