Exodus 37:15

He made the poles of acacia wood for carrying the table and overlaid them with gold.

Study Bible

He made the poles
The phrase "He made the poles" refers to Bezalel, the skilled craftsman appointed by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The poles were essential for the mobility of the sacred furniture, emphasizing the Israelites' journey and God's presence with them. The Hebrew root for "poles" is "bad," which signifies separation or distinctness, highlighting the sacredness and set-apart nature of these items for divine service.

of acacia wood
Acacia wood, known for its durability and resistance to decay, symbolizes the incorruptible nature of God's covenant and His eternal promises. The use of acacia wood in the construction of the Tabernacle's furnishings reflects the enduring and unchanging nature of God's word and His faithfulness to His people. Historically, acacia trees were abundant in the Sinai region, making them a practical yet symbolically rich choice for the Israelites.

for carrying the table
The table referred to here is the Table of Showbread, which held the bread of the Presence, symbolizing God's provision and fellowship with His people. The poles for carrying the table ensured that it could be transported without being touched directly, maintaining its holiness. This practice underscores the reverence and care required in handling sacred objects, reminding believers of the holiness and purity required in approaching God.

and overlaid them with gold
Gold, a precious and pure metal, represents divinity, glory, and the majesty of God. The overlaying of the acacia wood poles with gold signifies the divine nature covering the human, pointing to the incarnation of Christ, who is both fully God and fully man. This act of overlaying also reflects the beauty and splendor of God's dwelling place, inspiring believers to recognize the value and honor of serving in God's presence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
The skilled craftsman chosen by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the table of showbread.

2. Acacia Wood
A durable and resistant wood used extensively in the construction of the Tabernacle's furnishings, symbolizing incorruptibility and strength.

3. Gold Overlay
Represents purity, divinity, and the glory of God, used to cover the acacia wood, signifying the divine nature covering human effort.

4. The Table of Showbread
A sacred piece of furniture in the Tabernacle, symbolizing God's provision and fellowship with His people.

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

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Materials
The use of acacia wood and gold in the Tabernacle's construction teaches us about the combination of human effort and divine grace. Our lives, like the acacia wood, are to be overlaid with the righteousness and glory of God.

God's Provision and Presence
The table of showbread symbolizes God's continual provision and desire for fellowship with His people. We are reminded to rely on God's provision in our daily lives and seek His presence continually.

Carrying God's Presence
The poles for carrying the table signify the mobility of God's presence with His people. As believers, we are called to carry the presence of God with us wherever we go, being His representatives in the world.

Obedience to Divine Instructions
Bezalel's adherence to God's specific instructions for the Tabernacle's construction highlights the importance of obedience in our walk with God. We are to follow God's Word carefully and faithfully.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of acacia wood and gold in the Tabernacle's construction reflect the relationship between human effort and divine grace in our lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are carrying God's presence with us in our daily interactions and decisions?

3. How does the table of showbread in the Tabernacle connect to Jesus' teaching about being the "bread of life" in the New Testament?

4. What lessons can we learn from Bezalel's obedience to God's instructions, and how can we apply these lessons to our own spiritual journey?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper reliance on God's provision and presence in our lives, as symbolized by the table of showbread?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:23-30
Provides the original instructions for the construction of the table of showbread, emphasizing its importance in the Tabernacle.

Hebrews 9:2
Mentions the table of showbread as part of the earthly sanctuary, connecting it to the greater heavenly reality.

1 Kings 6:20-22
Describes the use of gold in Solomon's Temple, showing continuity in the use of gold as a symbol of divine presence and holiness.

John 6:35
Jesus refers to Himself as the "bread of life," connecting the showbread to Christ's provision and sustenance for believers.