Topical Bible: Board-work

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Definition and Usage in Scripture:

Board-work refers to the construction or craftsmanship involving boards, typically wooden planks, used in building structures. In biblical times, board-work was a significant aspect of construction, particularly in the making of the Tabernacle and other sacred structures. The use of boards in construction is mentioned in various passages, highlighting the importance of skilled craftsmanship and the materials used in creating places of worship and habitation.

Biblical References:

1. The Tabernacle:
The most notable instance of board-work in the Bible is the construction of the Tabernacle, as described in the Book of Exodus. The Tabernacle was a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness. It was constructed according to the divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

· Exodus 26:15-16 : "You are to construct upright frames of acacia wood for the tabernacle. Each frame is to be ten cubits long and a cubit and a half wide."

The boards, or frames, were made of acacia wood, a durable and resilient material, symbolizing the strength and permanence of God's dwelling among His people. The boards were overlaid with gold, signifying the holiness and glory of the Lord.

2. The Temple of Solomon:
Board-work was also employed in the construction of Solomon's Temple, a permanent structure that replaced the Tabernacle as the central place of worship for the Israelites.

· 1 Kings 6:15 : "He lined the interior walls with cedar boards from the floor of the temple to the ceiling and covered the floor with cypress boards."

The use of cedar and cypress in the Temple's construction reflects the grandeur and splendor of the house built for the Lord, emphasizing the importance of using the finest materials and craftsmanship in sacred architecture.

Symbolism and Theological Significance:

Board-work in the Bible is not merely a technical detail of construction but carries deeper symbolic and theological meanings. The use of boards in the Tabernacle and Temple signifies the order, stability, and beauty of God's creation. It reflects the divine order and the meticulous care with which God instructed His people to build His dwelling place.

The craftsmanship involved in board-work also highlights the value of human skill and labor in service to God. The artisans who worked on these sacred structures were endowed with wisdom and skill by the Spirit of God, as seen in the example of Bezalel and Oholiab, who were appointed to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle (Exodus 31:1-6).

Practical Applications:

In a broader sense, board-work can be seen as a metaphor for the Christian life, where believers are called to build their lives on the solid foundation of Christ, using the "materials" of faith, obedience, and good works. Just as the boards of the Tabernacle and Temple were carefully crafted and assembled, Christians are to construct their lives with care and dedication, reflecting the glory and holiness of God in all they do.

The biblical emphasis on board-work serves as a reminder of the importance of diligence, skill, and reverence in all aspects of life, particularly in the service of God and the building of His kingdom on earth.

Concordance

Board-work (1 Occurrence)

Song of Songs 8:9
If she is a wall, we build by her a palace of silver. And if she is a door, We fashion by her board-work of cedar.
(YLT)

Thesaurus

Board-work (1 Occurrence)
Board-work. Boards, Board-work. Boast . Multi-Version Concordance
Board-work (1 Occurrence). Song of Songs 8:9 If she ...
/b/board-work.htm - 6k

Boards (50 Occurrences)

/b/boards.htm - 21k

Boast (86 Occurrences)

/b/boast.htm - 33k

Fashion (24 Occurrences)
... Song of Songs 8:9 If she is a wall, we build by her a palace of silver. And if
she is a door, We fashion by her board-work of cedar. (YLT). ...
/f/fashion.htm - 21k