The term "shewbread," also known as "showbread" or "bread of the Presence," refers to the twelve loaves of bread that were continually placed on a special table in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. This bread was a perpetual offering before the LORD, symbolizing God's provision and the covenant relationship between Him and the twelve tribes of Israel.

Biblical Description and Instructions

The instructions for the shewbread are found in the Book of Exodus. The LORD commanded Moses regarding the construction of the table and the preparation of the bread. The table was to be made of acacia wood, overlaid with pure gold, and equipped with a gold molding around it. The dimensions of the table were specified as two cubits long, one cubit wide, and one and a half cubits high (Exodus 25:23-24). The table also featured an ornamental border, described as a "rim" or "frame," which was a handbreadth wide and had a gold molding around it (Exodus 25:25).

Placement and Symbolism

The table of shewbread was placed in the Holy Place, on the north side of the Tabernacle, opposite the lampstand (Exodus 26:35). The twelve loaves, made of fine flour, were arranged in two rows or piles, with frankincense placed on each row as a memorial portion to be burned as an offering to the LORD (Leviticus 24:5-7). The bread was replaced every Sabbath, and the old loaves were consumed by the priests in a holy place, as they were considered most holy (Leviticus 24:8-9).

The shewbread served as a continual reminder of God's covenant with Israel and His provision for His people. The bread's presence before the LORD symbolized the sustenance and fellowship that God provided to the twelve tribes, represented by the twelve loaves.

The Table's Ornamental Border

The ornamental border of the table, described as a "rim" or "frame," was an integral part of its design. This border, a handbreadth wide, was adorned with a gold molding, signifying the table's sacred purpose and the holiness of the offerings placed upon it. The detailed craftsmanship of the table and its border reflected the care and reverence required in the worship of God.

New Testament References

In the New Testament, the shewbread is mentioned in the context of Jesus' teachings and actions. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus refers to the shewbread when discussing the lawfulness of His disciples plucking grain on the Sabbath. He cites the example of David, who ate the consecrated bread when he and his companions were hungry (Matthew 12:3-4). This reference highlights the principle of mercy and the understanding of the law's intent.

The shewbread, with its table and ornamental border, remains a significant symbol of God's provision and the sacred relationship between the LORD and His people, as established in the covenant with Israel.Exodus 25:25
And you shall make to it a border of an hand breadth round about, and you shall make a golden crown to the border thereof round about.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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

Shewbread: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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