Exodus 36:38 – “and they made five posts with hooks for them. They overlaid the tops of the posts and their bands with gold and made five bases of bronze for them.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 36:38 describes the final touches made to the entrance of the Tabernacle. The verse focuses on the five posts that were made to hold the entrance curtain. These posts were designed with hooks to hang the curtain securely, and the tops of the posts, as well as their bands, were overlaid with gold, signifying their importance and sacred purpose. The bases of the posts were made of bronze, a strong and durable metal that provided stability and support. This combination of gold and bronze reflects the balance of beauty and strength required for the Tabernacle, ensuring that it was both a holy place and a practical, functional structure.
Historical Context
The Tabernacle was constructed by the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness after they left Egypt. It served as a portable sanctuary where God’s presence would dwell among His people. The construction of the Tabernacle followed detailed instructions given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. The posts described in this verse were crucial for supporting the entrance curtain, marking the boundary between the outer courtyard and the Holy Place. The use of gold and bronze in the construction of these posts highlights the sacredness of the Tabernacle and the care taken to ensure that every part of it was both beautiful and durable.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 36:38 underscores the importance of creating a sacred space that reflects both the holiness and the majesty of God. The gold used to overlay the posts symbolizes purity, value, and divine presence, while the bronze bases signify strength and stability. Together, they remind us that our approach to God should be marked by reverence, recognizing both His glory and His power. The posts holding the entrance curtain serve as a reminder that access to God’s presence is both a privilege and a responsibility, requiring us to approach Him with the right attitude and in the proper way.
Literary Analysis
In literary terms, Exodus 36:38 is part of a detailed narrative that describes the construction of the Tabernacle. The verse uses specific and descriptive language to convey the significance of the materials and craftsmanship involved in creating the posts. The mention of the gold and bronze highlights the contrast between the sacred and the practical, reflecting the dual nature of the Tabernacle as both a place of worship and a physical structure. The verse contributes to the overall theme of holiness and the meticulous care that went into building a dwelling place for God’s presence, emphasizing the importance of every detail.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 27:10 – Describes the construction of the courtyard of the Tabernacle, including the posts, bases, and hooks, which are similar in design to those described in Exodus 36:38.
- 1 Kings 7:15-16 – These verses describe the construction of the two pillars for the Temple of Solomon, which were also made with bronze and overlaid with gold, reflecting a similar combination of materials.
- 1 Timothy 3:15 – Paul describes the church as “the pillar and foundation of the truth,” symbolizing the strength and support provided by the church, much like the posts of the Tabernacle.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 36:38 serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting and upholding the things of God with both beauty and strength. Just as the posts of the Tabernacle were designed to hold up the entrance curtain securely, we are called to support and uphold our faith with integrity and dedication. This verse challenges us to consider how we can contribute to the stability and beauty of our spiritual community, ensuring that our actions reflect the holiness and glory of God. It also encourages us to recognize the value of even the smallest details in our worship and service to God, knowing that every part plays a role in creating a space where God’s presence can dwell.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in the care and detail He invested in creating a place where He could dwell among His people. The use of precious materials like gold and bronze for the posts shows that God values the beauty and stability of the space where He meets with His people. God’s love is also evident in His desire for order and structure, providing specific instructions for how the Tabernacle should be built. This reflects His care for every aspect of our lives, showing that He is a God of both majesty and detail, who desires to be intimately involved in the lives of His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 36:38 connects to Jesus Christ in that just as the posts supported the entrance to the Tabernacle, Jesus supports and upholds our access to God. In John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Just as the posts held up the curtain that marked the entrance to the Holy Place, Jesus is the one who holds open the way for us to enter into God’s presence. The combination of gold and bronze in the posts reflects the dual nature of Jesus as both divine (symbolized by gold) and strong in His humanity (symbolized by bronze), providing a secure foundation for our faith.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you contribute to the stability and beauty of your church community, similar to how the posts supported the entrance to the Tabernacle?
- In what ways can you ensure that your approach to God is marked by reverence and respect, reflecting the holiness and glory of His presence?
- How does understanding the significance of the materials used in the construction of the Tabernacle challenge you to offer your best to God in worship and service?
- What does it mean to you that Jesus is the one who supports and upholds your access to God, and how can this shape your relationship with Him?