Topical Bible: Tabernacle: Court of all the Pillars of, Filleted With Silver

◄ Tabernacle: Court of all the Pillars of, Filleted With Silver ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Tabernacle, as described in the Old Testament, served as the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. The structure and its components were meticulously designed according to divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai. Among the various elements of the Tabernacle, the court and its pillars hold significant importance.

The Court of the Tabernacle

The court of the Tabernacle was an enclosed area surrounding the Tabernacle itself, providing a sacred space for the Israelites to gather and offer sacrifices. The dimensions and materials for the court were specified in the Book of Exodus. The court was rectangular, measuring 100 cubits in length and 50 cubits in width (approximately 150 feet by 75 feet), and was enclosed by curtains made of fine twisted linen.

Pillars of the Court

The court was supported by a series of pillars, which were integral to its structure. According to Exodus 27:9-19, there were twenty pillars on the north and south sides, and ten pillars on the west side. The east side, which served as the entrance, had four pillars. These pillars were made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, signifying strength and durability.

Filleted With Silver

A distinctive feature of these pillars was that they were "filleted with silver." The term "filleted" refers to the decorative bands or rods that connected the tops of the pillars, providing both structural support and aesthetic beauty. The use of silver in the fillets is significant, as silver in the Bible often symbolizes redemption and purity. The silver fillets would have gleamed in the sunlight, adding to the splendor of the Tabernacle's court.

The Berean Standard Bible provides a detailed account of these instructions in Exodus 27:10-11: "with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases, and with silver hooks and bands on the posts. Likewise, for the north side there are to be curtains a hundred cubits long, with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases, and with silver hooks and bands on the posts."

Symbolism and Significance

The use of silver in the construction of the Tabernacle's court pillars is rich with symbolic meaning. Silver, as a precious metal, represents the value and sanctity of the space it encloses. The filleted silver bands not only provided a visual distinction but also underscored the divine presence and holiness of the Tabernacle. The combination of bronze and silver in the pillars reflects the dual themes of judgment and redemption, central to the sacrificial system practiced within the court.

The court of the Tabernacle, with its pillars filleted with silver, served as a constant reminder to the Israelites of God's covenant and His desire to dwell among His people. It was a place where the community could come together to worship, offer sacrifices, and experience the presence of the Almighty. The detailed craftsmanship and materials used in the court's construction highlight the reverence and obedience required in approaching a holy God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 27:17
All the pillars round about the court shall be filleted with silver; their hooks shall be of silver, and their sockets of brass.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 38:17
And the sockets for the pillars were of brass; the hooks of the pillars and their fillets of silver; and the overlaying of their capitals of silver; and all the pillars of the court were filleted with silver.
Torrey's Topical Textbook