Numbers 4:7

Over the table of the Presence they are to spread a blue cloth and place the plates and cups on it, along with the bowls and pitchers for the drink offering. The regular bread offering is to remain on it.

Study Bible

And they shall spread a blue cloth
The use of a "blue cloth" is significant in the context of the tabernacle. Blue, in the Hebrew tradition, often symbolizes the heavens and divinity. The Hebrew word for blue, "tekeleth," is associated with the sky and the divine presence. This color was used extensively in the tabernacle to remind the Israelites of God's heavenly nature and His covenant with them. The act of spreading a blue cloth over the table signifies covering it with the holiness and purity that comes from God, setting it apart for sacred use.

over the table of the Presence
The "table of the Presence" refers to the table that held the Bread of the Presence, also known as the Showbread. This table was a constant reminder of God's provision and His desire to dwell among His people. The Hebrew term for "Presence" is "panim," which can also mean "face." This implies a direct encounter with God, symbolizing His watchful care and intimate relationship with Israel. The table served as a physical representation of God's promise to be with His people, providing for their needs and sustaining them.

and set on it the plates and dishes and bowls
The "plates and dishes and bowls" were used in the service of the tabernacle, specifically for the offerings and rituals. Each item had a specific purpose and was crafted according to divine instructions. The Hebrew words for these utensils emphasize their sacred function. These items were not merely functional but were consecrated for holy use, reflecting the order and precision of God's instructions. They remind us of the importance of approaching God with reverence and the need for purity in worship.

and the pitchers for the drink offering
The "pitchers for the drink offering" were used to pour out libations, which were offerings of wine poured out to the Lord. The Hebrew word for pitcher, "keli," indicates a vessel or container, emphasizing the act of pouring out as a form of worship. The drink offering symbolizes the pouring out of one's life in service to God, a theme echoed in the New Testament by the Apostle Paul. It represents a life dedicated to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and grace.

the Bread of the Presence shall remain on it
The "Bread of the Presence" was a continual offering before the Lord, symbolizing God's eternal provision and presence with His people. The Hebrew term for bread, "lechem," is a staple of life, signifying sustenance and fellowship. The bread was to "remain" on the table, indicating its perpetual nature. This constancy points to God's unchanging faithfulness and His desire for ongoing communion with His people. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as the "Bread of Life," fulfilling the symbolism of the Bread of the Presence as the ultimate source of spiritual nourishment and life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Kohathites
A Levitical family responsible for the care of the most sacred objects of the tabernacle, including the table of the Presence.

2. The Table of the Presence
A sacred piece of furniture in the tabernacle where the Bread of the Presence was placed, symbolizing God's continual presence and provision.

3. The Bread of the Presence
Also known as showbread, it was a perpetual offering before the Lord, representing the covenant between God and Israel.

4. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

5. The Wilderness Journey
The period when the Israelites traveled from Egypt to the Promised Land, during which the tabernacle was central to their worship and community life.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Bread of the Presence
The Bread of the Presence symbolizes God's provision and sustenance for His people. Just as the bread was continually before the Lord, God is continually present and providing for us.

The Role of the Kohathites
The Kohathites' responsibility to care for the sacred objects teaches us about the importance of reverence and careful stewardship in our service to God.

The Significance of the Blue Cloth
The blue cloth represents the heavenly nature of God's presence. In our lives, we should strive to cover our actions and service with a heavenly perspective, seeking to honor God in all we do.

Covenant Relationship
The Bread of the Presence is a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people. As Christians, we are called to live in a covenant relationship with God through Jesus Christ, who is the true Bread of Life.

Worship and Community
The centrality of the table of the Presence in the tabernacle worship underscores the importance of communal worship and fellowship in the life of believers today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the Kohathites in caring for the sacred objects of the tabernacle inspire us to serve in our local church communities?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the Bread of the Presence deepen our understanding of God's provision in our daily lives?

3. How does the use of the blue cloth over the table of the Presence encourage us to maintain a heavenly perspective in our earthly responsibilities?

4. What parallels can we draw between the covenant relationship symbolized by the Bread of the Presence and our relationship with Christ as the Bread of Life?

5. How can the communal aspect of the tabernacle worship inform our approach to worship and fellowship within our church communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:23-30
Provides the initial instructions for constructing the table of the Presence and placing the Bread of the Presence on it, emphasizing its importance in worship.

Leviticus 24:5-9
Details the preparation and arrangement of the Bread of the Presence, highlighting its role in the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Hebrews 9:1-5
Discusses the tabernacle and its furnishings, including the table of the Presence, as a foreshadowing of the heavenly realities fulfilled in Christ.