Exodus 36:32

five for those on the other side, and five for those on the rear side of the tabernacle, to the west.

Study Bible

five crossbars
The number "five" in biblical numerology often symbolizes God's grace, goodness, and favor. In the context of the tabernacle, the five crossbars represent the strength and unity required to hold the structure together. The crossbars were essential for the stability of the tabernacle, just as God's grace is essential for the stability of our spiritual lives. The Hebrew word for "crossbars" is "beriach," which implies a bar or a bolt, indicating something that secures and holds together. This can be seen as a metaphor for how God's commandments and teachings hold our lives together.

for the frames
The "frames" refer to the structural supports of the tabernacle, which were made of acacia wood overlaid with gold. The Hebrew word used here is "qeresh," meaning a board or plank. These frames were the backbone of the tabernacle, providing the necessary support for the coverings and curtains. Spiritually, this can be seen as a representation of the foundational truths of the faith that support and uphold the believer's life. Just as the frames were essential for the tabernacle's integrity, so are the core doctrines of Christianity essential for a believer's spiritual integrity.

on one side
The phrase "on one side" indicates the specific placement and organization within the tabernacle's construction. This attention to detail reflects God's order and precision in His creation and His plans. The tabernacle was a physical manifestation of God's presence among His people, and every detail was significant. In a broader sense, this can remind believers of the importance of order and intentionality in their spiritual lives, ensuring that every aspect is aligned with God's will.

of the tabernacle
The "tabernacle" was the portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. The Hebrew word "mishkan" means "dwelling place" or "residence." It was a sacred space where God met with His people, symbolizing His desire to dwell among them. For Christians, the tabernacle foreshadows the coming of Jesus Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14) and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers. The tabernacle serves as a powerful reminder of God's presence and His desire for a relationship with His people.

Persons / Places / Events

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

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. Israelites
The people of God, who were tasked with contributing materials and labor for the construction of the Tabernacle.

5. Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites wandered for 40 years and where the Tabernacle was constructed and used.

Teaching Points

God's Attention to Detail
The specific instructions for the Tabernacle, including the bars and frames, highlight God's attention to detail and order. This teaches us that God cares about the details of our lives and ministries.

Unity and Structure
The bars provided structural integrity and unity to the Tabernacle. Similarly, in the body of Christ, unity and structure are essential for strength and function.

Obedience in Worship
The Israelites' obedience in constructing the Tabernacle according to God's specifications is a model for our obedience in worship and service to God.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Today, we are reminded that God dwells within us through the Holy Spirit.

Community Contribution
The construction of the Tabernacle required the contributions and cooperation of the entire community, illustrating the importance of each member's role in the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed construction of the Tabernacle reflect God's character and His expectations for our lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our church community maintains unity and structure, similar to the bars that held the Tabernacle together?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in the Israelites' construction of the Tabernacle to our personal walk with God?

4. What are some practical ways we can cultivate an awareness of God's presence in our daily lives, as the Tabernacle did for the Israelites?

5. How can each member of a church community contribute to the overall mission and purpose, drawing parallels from the communal effort in building the Tabernacle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions given by God to Moses regarding the construction of the Tabernacle, including the materials and dimensions.

Hebrews 9
This chapter in the New Testament discusses the significance of the Tabernacle and its furnishings as a foreshadowing of Christ's work and the heavenly sanctuary.

1 Corinthians 3:16
This verse speaks to believers as the temple of God, drawing a parallel to the Tabernacle as a dwelling place for God's presence.