Exodus 37:5

He inserted the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark in order to carry it.

Study Bible

He inserted the poles
This action refers to the specific instructions given by God for the construction and transportation of the Ark of the Covenant. The poles were made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, symbolizing purity and incorruptibility. The insertion of the poles signifies obedience to God's commands, as detailed in Exodus 25:13-15, where God instructed Moses on how the Ark should be carried. This obedience is a recurring theme in the Israelites' relationship with God.

into the rings
The rings were crafted as part of the Ark's design, serving a practical purpose for transportation. They were made of gold, emphasizing the sacredness of the Ark. The use of rings and poles ensured that the Ark was never touched directly by human hands, highlighting the holiness of God's presence. This design reflects the reverence and care required in handling sacred objects, as seen in the tragic account of Uzzah in 2 Samuel 6:6-7, where improper handling led to his death.

on the sides of the ark
The placement of the rings on the sides of the Ark allowed for balanced and stable transportation. The Ark, representing God's covenant and presence among His people, was central to Israelite worship and identity. Its design and the method of carrying it underscore the importance of following divine instructions precisely. The Ark's centrality is echoed in its placement in the Holy of Holies within the Tabernacle and later the Temple, signifying God's dwelling among His people.

in order to carry it
The purpose of the poles and rings was to facilitate the movement of the Ark as the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness. This mobility reflects the transient nature of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land and God's guidance throughout. The Levites, specifically the Kohathites, were tasked with carrying the Ark, as outlined in Numbers 4:15. This responsibility underscores the role of the Levites as mediators between God and the people, a role that foreshadows the mediating work of Jesus Christ, our High Priest, as described in Hebrews 4:14-16.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
The chief artisan appointed by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the Ark of the Covenant. He was filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship (Exodus 31:1-5).

2. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. It symbolized God's presence and covenant with Israel.

3. Poles and Rings
The poles were made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, inserted into rings on the sides of the Ark for transportation. This design ensured that the Ark was carried without being touched directly, signifying reverence and holiness.

4. Tabernacle
The portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where the Ark was housed in the Most Holy Place.

5. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the Law and the Tabernacle as a means to worship and maintain a relationship with Him.

Teaching Points

Reverence for God's Holiness
The method of carrying the Ark underscores the holiness of God and the need for reverence in worship. We must approach God with respect and awe, recognizing His sacredness.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The detailed instructions for the Ark's construction and transportation remind us of the importance of obedience to God's Word. Our lives should reflect a commitment to following His commands.

God's Presence with His People
The Ark symbolized God's presence among the Israelites. Today, believers have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them, assuring us of God's continual presence and guidance.

Symbolism of the Ark
The Ark's contents and its role in the Tabernacle point to Jesus Christ, who is the fulfillment of the Law and the ultimate revelation of God's presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the method of transporting the Ark of the Covenant reflect the holiness of God, and how can we apply this understanding to our worship today?

2. In what ways does the obedience of Bezalel and the Israelites in constructing and handling the Ark serve as a model for our own obedience to God's instructions?

3. How does the presence of the Ark in the Tabernacle relate to the New Testament concept of believers being the temple of the Holy Spirit?

4. What lessons can we learn from the specific design and handling of the Ark that apply to our daily walk with God?

5. How do the contents of the Ark (the tablets, Aaron's rod, and manna) point to the person and work of Jesus Christ, and how can this deepen our understanding of the Gospel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:12-15
Provides the original instructions for making the Ark, including the use of poles and rings for carrying it, emphasizing the importance of following God's precise instructions.

1 Chronicles 15:15
Describes how the Levites carried the Ark of God on their shoulders with the poles, as Moses had commanded according to the word of the Lord, highlighting obedience to God's commands.

Hebrews 9:4
Mentions the contents of the Ark, connecting the Old Testament practices to the New Testament understanding of Christ's fulfillment of the Law.