“And for the second side of the tabernacle, on the north side, there shall be twenty boards,”– Exodus 26:20
Exodus 26:20 Meaning
Exodus 26:20 is a part of the instructions given to Moses for constructing the Tabernacle, the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. In this verse, it describes the second side of the Tabernacle, which faces the north. The verse specifically mentions that there shall be twenty boards on this side.
This detail about the number of boards may seem minor at first glance, but it holds significant meaning in the context of the overall design of the Tabernacle. Each board represents a section of the structure, contributing to the strength and stability of the dwelling place of God. The use of twenty boards on the north side mirrored what was done on the south side, emphasizing the importance of symmetry and balance in God’s design.
Exodus 26:20 Commentary and Explanation
This verse stands as a reminder of God’s careful and intentional plan. When we read about the meticulous details concerning the Tabernacle’s construction, it serves to highlight God’s desire to dwell among His people in a specific and orderly manner. Each board was not just a piece of wood; it symbolized God’s presence and the importance of worship and community among the Israelites.
The Tabernacle is often seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate dwelling place of God, which is found in Jesus Christ. Jesus became the ultimate tabernacle, as noted in John 1:14, where it states that “the Word became flesh and dwelled among us.” Just as the Tabernacle was where God met with His people, Jesus made the way for us to have direct access to God.
When we think about the materials used for these boards, we find that acacia wood, a strong and durable type of wood, was utilized. This choice represents the resilience and strength needed to support the Tabernacle in the desert. It speaks to us today, reminding us of the need for strength and perseverance in our faith journey. We can relate these elements to our own lives, understanding that we, too, must be strong in our faith as we build our lives with God at the center.
Moreover, the number twenty has its own significance. In Biblical numerology, the number twenty symbolizes a complete and perfect waiting period. It reminds us that there are times when God calls us to wait on Him, and He can do amazing things within that waiting. By including this detail, God teaches us patience and trust as we rely on Him for guidance in our lives.
As we consider the architectural elements of the Tabernacle, we see a larger picture of harmony and unity that God wishes for us to embody in our lives. Each board works together to create a stable and welcoming space where God can dwell among His people. In our own communities and families, we are reminded to support one another, just as each board supports the Tabernacle. Together, we create a structure that honors God’s presence.
Context of Exodus 26:20
To understand the full context of Exodus 26:20, we must look at the previous verses and the surrounding chapters. Moses has been given specific instructions from God about constructing the Tabernacle as a place for worship and sacrifices. The witness of God’s holiness and the structure’s design were central to the Israelites as they traveled through the wilderness toward the Promised Land.
The Israelites had just experienced incredible miracles, such as the parting of the Red Sea and receiving the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai. They needed a physical reminder of God’s presence among them, and the Tabernacle would fulfill this purpose. Exodus 25 provides details about the items to be placed within the Tabernacle, such as the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, and the Lampstand. Each item had significant meaning, and the overall design helped the people realize God’s holiness and grace.
As we see in Exodus 26, God gives detailed instructions for the construction of various components, including the curtains, the roof, and the boards. This meticulous attention to detail indicates how serious God is about His relationship with His people and the way they should approach Him. The instructions in this chapter remind us of the importance of reverence and humility when approaching God.
Understanding the context helps us grasp why every measure and specification is crucial. In essence, the Tabernacle might have been a temporary structure, but its impact on the Israelites was profound. It was not devoid of meaning or significance; rather, it was a preparation for the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to His people, which would culminate in Jesus Christ.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Exodus 26:20
When we break down Exodus 26:20, we see it consists of two main components: the north side of the Tabernacle and the specification of twenty boards. The north side’s mention signifies balance, indicating that every side of the Tabernacle was constructed with equal importance and care.
One fascinating aspect of these boards is how they were fashioned for support. The boards would be covered with gold overlaid with silver bases. This not only added beauty but also symbolized purity and redemption. In our lives, we often face challenges that may cause us to feel inadequate. However, we are reminded that God desires to cover us with His grace, just as He covered the boards of the Tabernacle with gold.
Reflecting on the practicality of the boards, it is important to recognize that they provided both structural integrity and space for divine worship. They formed walls that protected the sacred space inside while allowing God’s people to worship openly. In our faith communities, we must also create environments where people feel welcomed and protected yet aware of God’s holiness. This balance is essential for fostering a healthy community of faith.
Lessons From Exodus 26:20
There are valuable lessons we can learn from Exodus 26:20 that apply to our lives today. The first lesson is the importance of building our lives on a strong foundation. Just like the boards provided support for the Tabernacle, we must ensure that our lives are built upon the solid rock of Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:24-25). A firm foundation allows us to withstand the storms and challenges we face.
Another lesson is the significance of unity in community. Each board had its place and purpose, combining together to create a dwelling place for God. In our gatherings, whether at church or in smaller groups, we each have unique gifts and roles that contribute to the common goal of glorifying God. It is essential that we respect and cherish these differences while promoting harmony and love.
Lastly, Exodus 26:20 reminds us of the patience required in our faith journeys. God worked with the Israelites through careful planning and intentionality, and our journeys may also require waiting and seeking His timing. We should trust that God is always at work in our lives, crafting our personal “tabernacles” according to His perfect plan.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Exodus 26:20 offers us a small yet profound insight into the nature of God’s plan for His people. This verse teaches us about careful preparation, unity, and strength. While the construction details of the Tabernacle might not seem glamorous or exciting, they provide powerful reminders of how God desires to dwell with us amid our ordinary lives. As we reflect on the boards that supported this sacred structure, we recognize that our community and relationship with God form the foundation for our spiritual journey.
We encourage you to read more about the wise instructions in Exodus 26 and discover the beauty of divine design by exploring the related chapters. If you are curious to learn about the specifications in Exodus 26:19, [click here](https://scripturesavvy.com/exodus-26-19/). Or, if you want to reflect on the significance of the Tabernacle’s clothing, [check out Exodus 26:18](https://scripturesavvy.com/exodus-26-18/). Each passage enriches our understanding of God’s presence and purpose in our lives.