Exodus 36:27

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

Study Bible

He made six frames
The construction of the tabernacle was a significant event in the history of Israel, as it represented God's dwelling among His people. The frames, or boards, were part of the tabernacle's structure, providing stability and form. The number six may symbolize human effort, as it is one less than seven, which often represents completeness or divine perfection in the Bible. The use of frames indicates a portable structure, suitable for the Israelites' nomadic lifestyle during their wilderness journey.

for the rear of the tabernacle
The rear of the tabernacle was the western side, which was considered the back. This orientation is significant because the entrance faced east, a direction often associated with the presence of God (as seen in the Garden of Eden and the direction of the rising sun). The rear would be the most protected part of the tabernacle, symbolizing the security and sanctity of God's dwelling place.

the west side
In ancient Near Eastern culture, the west was often associated with the end of the day and rest. For the Israelites, the west side of the tabernacle would be the final point of their journey, symbolizing the ultimate rest and peace found in God's presence. The west side's construction with six frames highlights the importance of stability and protection for the most sacred area of the tabernacle, where the Holy of Holies was located. This can also be seen as a type of Christ, who provides ultimate rest and security for believers.

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.