Exodus 36:36

He also made four posts of acacia wood for it and overlaid them with gold, along with gold hooks; and he cast four silver bases for the posts.

Study Bible

He made
This phrase indicates the craftsmanship and obedience of the artisans, specifically Bezalel and Oholiab, who were filled with the Spirit of God to carry out the work of the Tabernacle. The Hebrew root for "made" is עָשָׂה (asah), which means to do, fashion, or accomplish. This reflects the divine inspiration and skillful execution required to create the sacred objects for worship, emphasizing the importance of following God's precise instructions.

four posts
The number four often symbolizes completeness or universality in the Bible. The posts served as structural supports, indicating the stability and orderliness of God's dwelling place among His people. The Hebrew word for "posts" is עַמּוּד (ammud), which can also mean pillar, suggesting strength and permanence.

of acacia wood
Acacia wood, known for its durability and resistance to decay, was commonly used in the construction of the Tabernacle. The Hebrew term is שִׁטָּה (shittah), and its use signifies the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel. Acacia wood's resilience is a metaphor for the eternal and unchanging nature of God's promises.

and overlaid them with gold
Gold, a symbol of purity, divinity, and kingship, was used extensively in the Tabernacle to reflect God's holiness and glory. The act of overlaying the acacia wood with gold signifies the transformation and sanctification of the ordinary into the extraordinary, a theme that resonates with the Christian understanding of sanctification.

Their hooks were of gold
The hooks, or clasps, made of gold, were used to connect the curtains of the Tabernacle. The Hebrew word for "hooks" is וָו (vav), which also means a connecting link. This highlights the interconnectedness of the various elements of the Tabernacle, symbolizing unity and coherence in the worship of God.

and he cast four silver bases for them
Silver, often associated with redemption in the Bible, was used for the bases, providing a foundation for the posts. The Hebrew word for "bases" is אֶדֶן (eden), meaning pedestal or foundation. The use of silver here underscores the redemptive work of God as the foundation of His relationship with His people. The casting of the bases suggests a process of purification and refinement, akin to the spiritual refinement believers undergo through faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. They were filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship.

2. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. It was a central place of worship and sacrifice.

3. Acacia Wood
A durable and resistant wood used extensively in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. It symbolizes incorruptibility and endurance.

4. Gold
A precious metal used to overlay the posts, symbolizing purity, divinity, and the glory of God.

5. Silver Bases
The foundation for the posts, representing redemption and the price paid for the Israelites' freedom, as silver was often associated with redemption in the Bible.

Teaching Points

Divine Appointment and Skill
God equips those He calls. Just as Bezalel and Oholiab were filled with the Spirit for their task, believers today are given spiritual gifts to serve the body of Christ.

Symbolism of Materials
The use of acacia wood, gold, and silver in the Tabernacle construction points to the enduring, pure, and redemptive nature of God's presence and work among His people.

Foundation of Redemption
The silver bases remind us that our foundation in Christ is built upon His redemptive work. Just as the posts stood firm on silver, our lives must be grounded in the redemption we have in Jesus.

God's Presence Among Us
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's desire to dwell among His people. Today, through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within believers, making us living temples.

Attention to Detail in Worship
The meticulous construction of the Tabernacle teaches us the importance of reverence and care in our worship and service to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab encourage you in using your own gifts and talents for God's work?

2. In what ways does the symbolism of acacia wood, gold, and silver in the Tabernacle construction deepen your understanding of God's character?

3. How can the concept of being a "living temple" influence your daily life and interactions with others?

4. What parallels can you draw between the foundation of the Tabernacle posts and the foundation of your faith in Christ?

5. How can you apply the principle of attention to detail in worship to your personal or corporate worship practices today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31
This chapter introduces Bezalel and Oholiab, highlighting their divine appointment and the skills given to them by God for the construction of the Tabernacle.

Hebrews 9
This New Testament passage discusses the earthly sanctuary and its furnishings, drawing parallels between the Tabernacle and the heavenly sanctuary, emphasizing the fulfillment of the Old Covenant in Christ.

1 Corinthians 3
Paul speaks of believers as God's temple, drawing a connection between the physical Tabernacle and the spiritual dwelling of God within His people today.