Exodus 36:29

coupled together from bottom to top and fitted into a single ring. He made both corners in this way.

Study Bible

coupled together from bottom to top
This phrase describes the construction technique used in the Tabernacle, emphasizing the unity and stability of the structure. The Tabernacle was a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The coupling from bottom to top signifies a comprehensive and secure assembly, ensuring that the structure was both stable and unified. This can be seen as a metaphor for the unity and completeness of God's covenant with Israel, as well as the unity of the body of Christ in the New Testament (Ephesians 4:16).

and fitted into a single ring
The use of a single ring to fit the boards together highlights the precision and intentionality in the Tabernacle's design. This reflects the order and perfection of God's creation and His instructions. The ring can symbolize the eternal nature of God's covenant, as rings often represent eternity and unbroken promises. In a broader theological context, this can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the perfect and eternal mediator of the New Covenant (Hebrews 9:15).

He made both corners in this way
The mention of corners indicates the completion and integrity of the structure. Corners are often seen as points of strength and stability in construction. In biblical symbolism, corners can represent the foundation and strength of God's kingdom. This is echoed in the New Testament where Christ is referred to as the "chief cornerstone" (Ephesians 2:20), signifying His foundational role in the Church. The careful construction of the Tabernacle's corners underscores the importance of following God's precise instructions, which is a recurring theme throughout the Exodus narrative.

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 contributed materials and labor for the construction of the tabernacle.

5. Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites constructed the tabernacle as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Attention to Detail in Worship
The precise construction of the tabernacle, including the corners, reflects the importance of following God's instructions carefully in our worship and service.

Unity and Strength
The double frames fitted into a single ring symbolize unity and strength, reminding us of the importance of unity in the body of Christ.

God's Dwelling Among Us
The tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence with His people, pointing to the greater reality of God dwelling within us through the Holy Spirit.

Generosity and Participation
The construction of the tabernacle involved the contributions and skills of the entire community, highlighting the value of each person's gifts in the work of the church.

Foreshadowing of Christ
The tabernacle and its construction serve as a foreshadowing of Christ, who is the ultimate meeting place between God and humanity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the tabernacle, particularly the attention to detail, inform our understanding of worship today?

2. In what ways can the unity and strength of the tabernacle's structure inspire us to seek unity within our church community?

3. How does the concept of God dwelling among His people in the tabernacle relate to the New Testament teaching of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' generosity and participation in the construction of the tabernacle that apply to our involvement in church ministry?

5. How does the tabernacle serve as a foreshadowing of Christ, and what implications does this have for our faith and understanding of God's plan of salvation?

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 design.

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
Paul speaks of believers as the temple of God, drawing a parallel to the tabernacle as a dwelling place for God's presence.

Ephesians 2:19-22
Paul describes the church as a holy temple in the Lord, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone.