Topical Encyclopedia The Table of Shewbread, also known as the Table of Showbread, holds significant importance in the religious practices and symbolism of ancient Israel as described in the Hebrew Scriptures. This sacred table was a central fixture within the Tabernacle and later the Temple, serving as a continual offering before the LORD.Biblical Description and Construction The instructions for the construction of the Table of Shewbread are detailed in the Book of Exodus. According to Exodus 25:23-30 , the table was to be made of acacia wood, overlaid with pure gold, and measured two cubits long, one cubit wide, and one and a half cubits high. It was adorned with a gold molding around its edge and equipped with rings and poles for transport, signifying its mobility during the Israelites' wilderness journey. Purpose and Symbolism The primary function of the Table of Shewbread was to hold the "bread of the Presence," also known as the shewbread. As described in Leviticus 24:5-9 , twelve loaves of bread, representing the twelve tribes of Israel, were to be placed on the table every Sabbath. These loaves were made from fine flour and arranged in two stacks, with pure frankincense placed on each stack as a memorial portion. The bread was a perpetual offering, symbolizing God's provision and the covenant relationship between Him and His people. The shewbread was considered holy, and only the priests were permitted to eat it in a sacred place. This practice underscored the sanctity of the bread and the priestly role as mediators between God and the Israelites. Theological Significance The Table of Shewbread and its loaves carry profound theological implications. The bread of the Presence signifies God's continual sustenance and presence among His people. It serves as a reminder of the manna provided in the wilderness and foreshadows the spiritual nourishment found in Christ, who declared Himself the "bread of life" (John 6:35). Moreover, the table and its offerings highlight the importance of worship and thanksgiving in the life of the believer. The regular renewal of the bread each Sabbath reflects the need for ongoing dedication and remembrance of God's faithfulness. Historical and Cultural Context In the context of ancient Near Eastern practices, the Table of Shewbread also reflects the broader cultural understanding of hospitality and divine fellowship. Sharing bread was a common expression of covenant and community, and the presence of the shewbread in the Tabernacle and Temple symbolized Israel's unique relationship with Yahweh. Conclusion The Table of Shewbread is a rich symbol of God's provision, presence, and covenant with His people. It serves as a tangible reminder of the spiritual truths that underpin the faith of Israel and, by extension, the Christian faith. Through the lens of the New Testament, the shewbread finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who offers Himself as the true sustenance for all who believe. Nave's Topical Index Hebrews 9:2For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the show bread; which is called the sanctuary. Nave's Topical Index Resources What was the bread of the Presence (Exodus 25:30)? | GotQuestions.orgShewbread: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Shewbread (Showbread) for the Temple Shewbread (Showbread): (Also Called the Bread of the Presence) Shewbread (Showbread): "Unlawfully" Eaten by David Shewbread (Showbread): Called Hallowed Bread Shewbread (Showbread): Consecration of Shewbread (Showbread): Furniture of Shewbread (Showbread): How Removed Shewbread (Showbread): Its Position in the Tabernacle Shewbread (Showbread): Ordinance Concerning Shewbread (Showbread): Ordinances Concerning Shewbread (Showbread): Placed on the Table of Shewbread (See Table of, Below) Shewbread (Showbread): Prepared by the Levites Shewbread (Showbread): Provided by a Yearly Per Capita Tax Shewbread (Showbread): Required to be Kept Before the Lord Continually Shewbread (Showbread): Table of Shewbread was Changed Every Sabbath Day Shewbread: After Removal from the Table Given to the Priests Shewbread: Called Hallowed Bread Shewbread: Christ As the Bread of Life Shewbread: Materials For, Provided by the People Shewbread: Not Lawful for Any But the Priests to Eat, Except in Extreme Shewbread: Placed in Two Rows on the Table by the Priests Shewbread: Prepared by Levites Shewbread: Pure Frankincense Placed On Shewbread: Table of Covered With Gold Shewbread: Table of Dimensions of Shewbread: Table of Directions for Removing Shewbread: Table of had an Ornamental Border Shewbread: Table of had Dishes, Spoons, Covers, and Bowls of Gold Shewbread: Table of had Rings of Gold in the Corners for the Staves Shewbread: Table of had Staves of Shittim Wood Covered With Gold Shewbread: Table of Placed in the North Side of the Tabernacle Shewbread: Twelve Cakes of Fine Flour Related Terms |
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