Leviticus 24:6

and set them in two rows--six per row--on the table of pure gold before the LORD.

Study Bible

Set them in two rows
The phrase "set them in two rows" refers to the arrangement of the twelve loaves of showbread, which were to be placed in the Tabernacle. The Hebrew word for "set" is "ערך" (arak), which means to arrange or set in order. This careful arrangement signifies the order and precision that God requires in worship. The two rows symbolize the twelve tribes of Israel, representing unity and equality before God. This arrangement also reflects the importance of community and fellowship in the worship of God, as each tribe had an equal place before Him.

six per row
The specification of "six per row" emphasizes the completeness and perfection in the number six, which is often associated with human effort and responsibility in the Bible. The twelve loaves, divided into two rows of six, symbolize the entirety of the nation of Israel, with each loaf representing a tribe. This division into two rows can also be seen as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people, where both parties have roles and responsibilities.

on the table of pure gold
The "table of pure gold" refers to the Table of Showbread, which was made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold, as described in Exodus 25:23-24. The use of gold, a precious and incorruptible metal, signifies the holiness and divine nature of the items used in worship. Gold's purity reflects God's perfection and the purity required in approaching Him. The table's presence in the Holy Place underscores the importance of continual fellowship and communion with God, as the bread was a perpetual offering before Him.

before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" indicates that the showbread was placed in the presence of God, within the Holy Place of the Tabernacle. This positioning signifies that the offerings and acts of worship are to be done with an awareness of God's immediate presence. The Hebrew word for "before" is "לפני" (lifnei), which can also mean "in the face of" or "in the presence of." This highlights the intimate relationship between God and His people, where their offerings are not just ritualistic acts but are presented directly to Him, acknowledging His sovereignty and holiness. The showbread, as a symbol of God's provision and the people's dependence on Him, serves as a continual reminder of His covenant faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God, including the instructions for the Tabernacle.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the law to follow as part of their covenant relationship with Him.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God dwelled among His people and where the bread of the Presence was placed.

4. The Table of Pure Gold
A sacred piece of furniture in the Tabernacle where the bread of the Presence was arranged.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who gave specific instructions for worship and the arrangement of the bread.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Order in Worship
God is a God of order, and the specific arrangement of the bread signifies the importance of approaching Him with reverence and precision.

Symbolism of the Bread of the Presence
The bread represents God's continual provision and presence with His people, reminding us of His faithfulness and care.

Holiness and Purity in Worship
The use of pure gold for the table underscores the holiness required in worship, calling believers to approach God with pure hearts.

Christ as the Fulfillment of the Bread
Jesus, as the "bread of life," fulfills the symbolism of the bread of the Presence, offering spiritual sustenance and eternal life to believers.

Community and Fellowship
The arrangement of the bread in rows can symbolize the unity and fellowship among God's people, as they gather in His presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the specific arrangement of the bread on the table reflect God's character and His expectations for worship?

2. In what ways does the bread of the Presence point to Jesus as the "bread of life," and how can this understanding deepen our relationship with Him?

3. What can we learn from the use of pure gold in the Tabernacle about the nature of our worship and the condition of our hearts?

4. How does the account of David eating the consecrated bread in 1 Samuel 21 challenge or affirm our understanding of God's provision and mercy?

5. How can the concept of community and fellowship, as symbolized by the arrangement of the bread, be applied in our local church context today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:23-30
Provides the initial instructions for constructing the table of pure gold and placing the bread of the Presence, emphasizing the importance of order and holiness in worship.

1 Samuel 21:1-6
Describes an instance where David eats the consecrated bread, highlighting the bread's sacred nature and its role in God's provision.

John 6:35
Jesus refers to Himself as the "bread of life," drawing a spiritual parallel to the bread of the Presence as a symbol of God's provision and sustenance.