Exodus 37:27
He made two gold rings below the molding on opposite sides to hold the poles used to carry it.
He made two gold rings
The use of gold signifies the sacredness and value of the object being constructed, which in this context is part of the altar of incense. Gold is a recurring material in the construction of the Tabernacle, symbolizing purity and divinity. The two rings are functional but also represent completeness and stability, as the number two often signifies witness and testimony in biblical numerology.

below the molding
The molding refers to the decorative band or border that adds to the aesthetic and sacred design of the altar. This detail emphasizes the care and precision in the construction of the Tabernacle's furnishings, reflecting God's instructions to Moses on Mount Sinai. The placement of the rings below the molding ensures that the poles do not interfere with the altar's design, maintaining its sanctity and beauty.

on opposite sides
This phrase indicates symmetry and balance, which are important in the design of the Tabernacle. The opposite placement ensures that the altar can be carried evenly, preventing it from tipping or being damaged. This design reflects the order and precision that God requires in worship, as seen throughout the instructions for the Tabernacle.

to hold the poles
The poles are essential for the transportation of the altar, as the Israelites were a nomadic people during their journey through the wilderness. The use of poles for carrying sacred objects is a recurring theme in the construction of the Tabernacle, ensuring that the holy items are not touched directly by human hands, preserving their sanctity.

used to carry it
The portability of the altar signifies the transient nature of the Israelites' journey and their reliance on God's guidance. This also foreshadows the future mobility of God's presence, which is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who embodies God's presence among His people. The carrying of the altar by poles is a practical solution that respects the holiness of the object, ensuring it is moved with reverence and care.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Bezalel
The skilled craftsman chosen by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the altar of incense.

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

3. Altar of Incense
A sacred piece of furniture in the Tabernacle, used for burning incense as a symbol of prayer and worship ascending to God.
Teaching Points
Symbolism of Incense
The incense represents the prayers of the people, reminding us of the importance of prayer in our daily lives.

Holiness and Reverence
The construction and use of the altar of incense teach us about approaching God with reverence and purity.

God's Detailed Instructions
The specific instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings show God's desire for order and obedience in worship.

Carrying God's Presence
The poles for carrying the altar signify the portability of God's presence, encouraging us to carry His presence in our lives wherever we go.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the construction of the altar of incense reflect the importance of prayer in our relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship is reverent and pure, as symbolized by the altar of incense?

3. How do the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle challenge us to be obedient to God's commands in our own lives?

4. What does the portability of the altar of incense teach us about carrying God's presence in our daily activities?

5. How can we connect the symbolism of incense in the Old Testament to our understanding of prayer in the New Testament, as seen in Revelation 8:3-4?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Exodus 30:1-10
Provides the original instructions for building the altar of incense, highlighting its significance in worship and its placement before the veil.

Revelation 8:3-4
Describes the incense as representing the prayers of the saints, connecting the Old Testament practice to New Testament worship.

Hebrews 9:4
Mentions the altar of incense in the context of the Tabernacle, emphasizing its role in the worship and sacrificial system.
The Furnishing of the TabernacleJ. Orr Exodus 37:1-28
The Altar of IncenseJ. Orr Exodus 37:25-29
People
Bezaleel, Moses
Places
Sinai
Topics
Bear, Below, Border, Carry, Corners, Crown, Edge, Gold, Golden, Hold, Holders, Lifting, Molding, Opposite, Places, Placing, Poles, Receptacles, Ribs, Rings, Rods, Sides, Sides-as, Sides-on, Staffs, Staves, Thereof, Wherewith, Withal, Wreath
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Exodus 37:27

     5176   ring

Exodus 37:25-28

     7302   altar

Exodus 37:25-29

     7386   incense

Library
Annunciation to Zacharias of the Birth of John the Baptist.
(at Jerusalem. Probably b.c. 6.) ^C Luke I. 5-25. ^c 5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judæa [a Jewish proselyte, an Idumæan or Edomite by birth, founder of the Herodian family, king of Judæa from b.c. 40 to a.d. 4, made such by the Roman Senate on the recommendation of Mark Antony and Octavius Cæsar], a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course [David divided the priests into twenty-four bodies or courses, each course serving in rotation one week in the temple
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Exodus
The book of Exodus--so named in the Greek version from the march of Israel out of Egypt--opens upon a scene of oppression very different from the prosperity and triumph in which Genesis had closed. Israel is being cruelly crushed by the new dynasty which has arisen in Egypt (i.) and the story of the book is the story of her redemption. Ultimately it is Israel's God that is her redeemer, but He operates largely by human means; and the first step is the preparation of a deliverer, Moses, whose parentage,
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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