Shittim wood, also known as acacia wood, holds significant importance in the biblical narrative, particularly in the construction of sacred objects within the Tabernacle. The staves of the Ark of the Covenant, which were used to carry the Ark, were crafted from this durable and resilient wood. The use of shittim wood is mentioned in several passages, underscoring its sacred role in the worship practices of the Israelites.

Biblical References:

The primary reference to the use of shittim wood for the staves of the Ark of the Covenant is found in the Book of Exodus. In Exodus 25:10-15 , God provides Moses with detailed instructions for the construction of the Ark:

"They are to make an ark of acacia wood two and a half cubits long, a cubit and a half wide, and a cubit and a half high. Overlay it with pure gold both inside and out, and make a gold molding around it. Cast four gold rings for it and fasten them to its four feet, two rings on one side and two rings on the other. And make poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold. Insert the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark, so that the ark may be carried by them. The poles are to remain in the rings of the ark; they must not be removed."

This passage highlights the dual nature of the staves: they are both functional and symbolic. Functionally, they allowed the Levites to transport the Ark without directly touching it, adhering to the holiness and sanctity of the Ark. Symbolically, the use of shittim wood, overlaid with gold, represents the incorruptible nature of God's covenant with His people.

Symbolism and Significance:

Shittim wood is known for its durability and resistance to decay, making it an apt material for objects intended to last through generations. Its use in the construction of the Ark's staves signifies the enduring nature of God's promises and His presence among the Israelites. The overlay of gold further emphasizes the divine glory and purity associated with the Ark.

The staves' permanence in the rings of the Ark, as commanded in Exodus 25:15, underscores the perpetual readiness for the Ark to be moved, symbolizing God's constant guidance and mobility with His people during their wilderness journey. This aspect of the staves reflects the theological theme of God's omnipresence and His active role in the lives of the Israelites.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In the ancient Near East, acacia trees were common in the wilderness regions, including the Sinai Peninsula, where the Israelites wandered. The choice of locally available materials like shittim wood for the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings demonstrates God's provision and the practical aspects of worship in the wilderness setting.

The Ark of the Covenant, with its shittim wood staves, played a central role in the religious life of Israel, serving as the earthly throne of God and the focal point of His covenant with His chosen people. The Ark's presence in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple in Jerusalem signified God's dwelling among His people and His commitment to the covenant relationship.

In summary, the staves of the Ark of the Covenant, made of shittim wood, are a testament to the enduring and sacred nature of God's covenant with Israel. Their construction and use reflect the theological themes of holiness, divine presence, and the perpetual readiness of God to lead and accompany His people.Exodus 25:13
And you shall make staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with gold.
Nave's Topical Index

Exodus 38:6
And he made the staves of shittim wood, and overlaid them with brass.
Nave's Topical Index

How Intent the Ruler Ought to be on Meditations in the Sacred Law.
... And staves of shittim-wood are made, and are put through ... But let the staves remain
ever in the rings, that ... Sacred Writ, may lift without delay the ark of the ...
/.../leo/writings of leo the great/chapter xi how intent the.htm

Importance of Small Things in Religion
... covenant was a kind of chest made of shittim wood, and ... That ark when it was removed
was covered over, so that ... it; and it was carried by golden staves upon the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 6 1860/importance of small things in.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... of holies, all the utensils, and the ark, were types ... on fire; the truth of the
declaration made by Job ... enter by the blood of the everlasting covenant into the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... He made their prison a Bethel, the house of God, and the very gate of heaven-thus
richly blessing their souls for refusing to render unto man the things that ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm

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