Topical Encyclopedia The rings and poles are significant components in the construction and transportation of sacred objects within the Tabernacle, as described in the Old Testament. These elements are primarily associated with the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Altar of Incense, and the Altar of Burnt Offering. Their design and function underscore the holiness and the divine instructions given to the Israelites for worship.The Ark of the Covenant The Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred object in the Tabernacle, was constructed with specific instructions from God to Moses. It was made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold. The Ark was to have four gold rings attached to its four feet, two on each side. Poles made of acacia wood, also overlaid with gold, were inserted into these rings to carry the Ark. The poles were to remain in the rings of the Ark and were never to be removed, signifying the perpetual readiness for the Ark to be transported. This is detailed in Exodus 25:12-15 : "Cast four gold rings for it and fasten them to its four feet, two rings on one side and two rings on the other. And make poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold. Insert the poles into the rings on the sides of the Ark, so that the Ark may be carried by them. The poles are to remain in the rings of the Ark; they must not be removed." The Table of Showbread The Table of Showbread, also known as the Table of the Presence, was another sacred object that required rings and poles for its transportation. Like the Ark, it was made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. The table had a gold molding around it and was equipped with four gold rings at its corners. The poles, also made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, were inserted into these rings to carry the table. This is described in Exodus 25:26-28 : "Make four gold rings for the table and fasten them to the four corners at its four legs. The rings are to be close to the rim, to hold the poles used in carrying the table. Make the poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold, so that the table may be carried with them." The Altar of Incense The Altar of Incense, used for burning incense before the Lord, was similarly constructed with rings and poles for transport. It was made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. Two gold rings were made for it under the molding on two opposite sides to hold the poles. The poles, also made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, were used to carry the altar. This is outlined in Exodus 30:4-5 : "Make two gold rings for the altar below the molding on two opposite sides to hold the poles used to carry it. Make the poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold." The Altar of Burnt Offering The Altar of Burnt Offering, used for sacrifices, was constructed with bronze rather than gold. It was made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze. The altar had a grating, a network of bronze, and four bronze rings at its four corners. The poles, made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, were inserted into these rings for carrying the altar. This is described in Exodus 27:4-7 : "Make a grate of bronze mesh for it, and make a bronze ring at each of the four corners of the mesh. Set the grate beneath the ledge of the altar, so that the mesh comes halfway up the altar. Additionally, make poles of acacia wood for the altar and overlay them with bronze. Insert the poles into the rings on both sides of the altar to carry it." Symbolism and Significance The use of rings and poles in the construction of these sacred objects highlights the importance of mobility and the transient nature of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. The poles allowed the Levites to carry these holy items without directly touching them, preserving their sanctity and adhering to God's commands. The materials used—gold for the most sacred objects and bronze for others—reflect the varying degrees of holiness and the specific functions of each item within the Tabernacle. The meticulous instructions for the rings and poles emphasize the Israelites' obedience to divine guidance and the reverence required in their worship practices. Subtopics Rings of Kings used for Sealing Decrees Rings of Kings: Given to Favourites As a Mark of Honor Rings: (Put on the Hands) Favour Rings: Made of Gold and Set With Precious Stones Rings: Numbers of, Taken from Midianites Rings: Rich Men Distinguished By Rings: Women of Rank Adorned With Related Terms |