Crossbars, in the context of biblical architecture and design, refer to horizontal beams used primarily in the construction of sacred structures, such as the Tabernacle and the Temple. These beams played a crucial role in providing stability and support to the vertical frames or boards of these holy edifices.

The Tabernacle

The Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness, prominently featured crossbars in its construction. According to the instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai, the Tabernacle was to be built with a framework of acacia wood boards, each standing upright. To ensure the stability of these boards, crossbars were employed.

In Exodus 26:26-28 , the instructions for the Tabernacle's crossbars are detailed: "You are to make five crossbars of acacia wood for the frames on one side of the tabernacle, five for those on the other side, and five for those on the rear side of the tabernacle, to the west. The central crossbar in the middle of the frames shall extend from end to end."

These crossbars were overlaid with gold, and gold rings were attached to the boards to hold the crossbars in place, as described in Exodus 26:29 : "Overlay the frames with gold and make gold rings to hold the crossbars. Also overlay the crossbars with gold."

Symbolism and Function

The use of crossbars in the Tabernacle not only served a practical purpose but also carried symbolic significance. The crossbars, overlaid with gold, represented the unity and strength of the structure, reflecting the unity and strength of the covenant between God and His people. The central crossbar, running the length of the Tabernacle, symbolized the centrality of God's presence among the Israelites.

The Temple

While the Bible does not provide as detailed a description of crossbars in Solomon's Temple as it does for the Tabernacle, it is reasonable to infer that similar structural elements were employed. The Temple, a more permanent and grandiose structure, would have required robust architectural features to ensure its stability and durability.

Spiritual Application

In a spiritual sense, crossbars can be seen as a metaphor for the support and unity within the body of Christ, the Church. Just as the crossbars held the Tabernacle together, believers are called to support one another in faith, maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3).

Crossbars, though a seemingly minor detail in the grand design of biblical structures, highlight the importance of unity, strength, and divine order in the worship and community life of God's people.

Death of Martha Yeardley, and John Yeardley's Journey to Norway.
... The seat is placed on two crossbars fixed to the long shafts, the spring
of which is intended to mitigate the jolting of the road. ...
/.../chapter xviii death of martha.htm

Chaldaean Civilization
... provided with coverings and a thin mattress, copper or wooden stands to support
lamps or vases, square stools on four legs united by crossbars, armchairs with ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm

Crossbars (8 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Crossbars (8 Occurrences). Exodus 26:29 You shall
overlay the boards with gold, and make their rings of ...
/c/crossbars.htm - 8k

Grate (6 Occurrences)
... fuel while burning. 4. (vt) To furnish with grates; to protect with a grating
or crossbars; as, to grate a window. 5. (vt) To rub ...
/g/grate.htm - 10k

Crossbar (2 Occurrences)

/c/crossbar.htm - 7k

Cross-beams (1 Occurrence)
Cross-beams. Crossbars, Cross-beams. Crossbreed . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(DBY). Crossbars, Cross-beams. Crossbreed . Reference Bible.
/c/cross-beams.htm - 6k

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