Exodus 25:26

Make four gold rings for the table and fasten them to the four corners at its four legs.

Study Bible

Make four gold rings for it
The instruction to "make" indicates a divine command, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's specific instructions. The use of "gold" signifies purity, value, and divinity, reflecting God's holiness and the sacred nature of the tabernacle furnishings. Gold, being a precious metal, was often used in ancient times for items of great significance and honor. The "rings" were functional, serving as holders for the poles used to carry the Ark, but they also symbolize eternity and the unending nature of God's covenant with His people.

and fasten them to its four feet
The act of fastening the rings to the "four feet" of the Ark suggests stability and readiness for movement. The number "four" often represents universality or completeness in biblical numerology, indicating that God's presence and covenant are comprehensive and all-encompassing. The "feet" imply a foundation, suggesting that the Ark, as the earthly throne of God, is firmly established and grounded in His divine authority.

with two rings on one side and two rings on the other
The symmetry of "two rings on one side and two rings on the other" highlights balance and order, reflecting God's nature as a God of order and precision. This balance ensures that the Ark can be carried evenly, symbolizing the even distribution of God's presence and blessings among His people. The careful placement of the rings also underscores the importance of following God's instructions meticulously, as each detail has a purpose in His divine plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the Tabernacle from God on Mount Sinai.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were to construct the Tabernacle as a place of worship and dwelling for God's presence.

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary that the Israelites built according to God's instructions, serving as a place of worship during their journey in the wilderness.

4. Ark of the Covenant
The sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's covenant with Israel.

5. Mount Sinai
The mountain where Moses received the Law and the instructions for the Tabernacle from God.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, including the gold rings, emphasize the importance of following God's commands precisely. This teaches us the value of obedience in our spiritual lives.

Symbolism of Gold
Gold, a precious and incorruptible metal, symbolizes the purity and holiness required in worship. It reminds us to approach God with reverence and purity of heart.

God's Presence Among His People
The Tabernacle, with its detailed construction, signifies God's desire to dwell among His people. This foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is "God with us."

Attention to Detail in Worship
The meticulous design of the Tabernacle encourages us to be intentional and thoughtful in our worship practices, ensuring they honor God and reflect His glory.

Community Involvement in Worship
The construction of the Tabernacle involved the entire community, highlighting the importance of collective participation in worship and service to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed construction of the Tabernacle, including the gold rings, reflect the character of God?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of obedience to God's instructions in our daily lives?

3. How does the use of gold in the Tabernacle's construction inform our understanding of holiness and purity in worship?

4. What parallels can we draw between the Tabernacle as a dwelling place for God and the New Testament teaching of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, ensure that our worship practices are both reverent and reflective of God's glory?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:10-22
Provides the broader context of the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, including the materials and dimensions.

Hebrews 9:1-5
Describes the earthly sanctuary and the items within the Tabernacle, including the Ark, highlighting its significance in the Old Covenant.

1 Kings 8:6-9
Details the placement of the Ark in Solomon's Temple, showing the continuity of its importance in Israel's worship.

Revelation 11:19
Mentions the Ark of the Covenant in the heavenly temple, symbolizing God's enduring presence and faithfulness.