Introduction:
Shewbread, also known as Showbread, is a significant element in the worship practices of ancient Israel, as detailed in the Old Testament. It refers to the twelve loaves of bread that were placed on a special table in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle, and later in the Temple, as a perpetual offering before the Lord. This bread symbolizes God's provision and the covenant relationship between Him and the twelve tribes of Israel.

Biblical Description:
The instructions for the preparation and presentation of the Shewbread are found in the book of Exodus. Exodus 25:30 states, "And place the Bread of the Presence on the table before Me at all times." The bread was to be made of fine flour and arranged in two rows, six loaves in each row, on a table overlaid with pure gold (Exodus 25:23-30). Leviticus 24:5-9 provides further details, specifying that the bread was to be baked fresh every Sabbath and replaced with new loaves, while the old loaves were consumed by the priests in a holy place.

Provision through a Yearly Per Capita Tax:
The provision of the Shewbread was supported by a system of contributions from the Israelites. According to Exodus 30:11-16, a census tax, also known as the atonement money, was collected from every male over the age of twenty. This half-shekel tax was used for the service of the Tent of Meeting, which included the maintenance of the Shewbread. This system ensured that the necessary resources were available to sustain the continual offering of the bread, reflecting the communal responsibility of the Israelites to support the worship and service of God.

Symbolic Significance:
The Shewbread holds deep symbolic meaning within the context of Israelite worship. It represents God's continual provision and sustenance for His people, as well as the covenant relationship between God and the twelve tribes of Israel. The bread's presence in the Holy Place serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the need for Israel to remain faithful to Him.

In the New Testament, the Shewbread is seen as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, the "Bread of Life" (John 6:35), who provides spiritual nourishment and eternal life to all who believe in Him. The Shewbread thus points to the ultimate fulfillment of God's provision through Christ.

Conclusion:
The Shewbread is a profound element of Old Testament worship, rich in symbolism and theological significance. It underscores the themes of divine provision, covenant relationship, and communal responsibility in the worship of God. Through the yearly per capita tax, the Israelites collectively participated in the maintenance of this sacred offering, highlighting the importance of communal support in the service of God. The Shewbread ultimately points to the greater provision found in Jesus Christ, who fulfills the spiritual needs of humanity.Nehemiah 10:32,33
Also we made ordinances for us, to charge ourselves yearly with the third part of a shekel for the service of the house of our God;
Nave's Topical Index

What was the bread of the Presence (Exodus 25:30)? | GotQuestions.org

Shewbread: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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