(The Lord speaking is red text)
The pins of the tabernacle, and the pins of the court, and their cords,
the tent pegs for the tabernacle; the tent pegs for the courtyard, with their ropes;
the tent pegs for the tabernacle and for the courtyard, along with their ropes;
the pins of the tabernacle, and the pins of the court, and their cords;
The pins{H3489} of the tabernacle{H4908}, and the pins{H3489} of the court{H2691}, and their cords{H4340},
1. **Themes:**
- **Divine Precision and Detail:** The verse emphasizes the meticulous preparation and attention to detail required for the construction of the Tabernacle, the portable dwelling place for God among the Israelites. The specific mention of pins and cords underscores the importance of following divine instructions exactly as given to Moses.
- **Community Participation:** The Tabernacle's construction was a communal effort, with each component being a collective contribution from the Israelites. This highlights themes of unity, cooperation, and the shared responsibility of God's people in creating a sacred space.
- **Holiness and Separation:** The pins and cords served to demarcate the holy space of the Tabernacle and the courtyard, setting it apart from the secular world. This separation was crucial in maintaining the sanctity of the space where God would dwell and where sacred rituals would be performed.
2. **Historical Context:**
- **Exodus from Egypt:** The verse is set within the broader context of the Israelites' journey from slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land. After receiving the Ten Commandments and other laws at Mount Sinai, God instructs Moses on the construction of the Tabernacle.
- **Wilderness Wanderings:** The Tabernacle was constructed during the Israelites' time in the wilderness, as they waited to enter Canaan. It served as a central point for worship and was a tangible symbol of God's presence with His people during their travels.
- **Cultic Practice:** The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's construction, including the pins and cords, reflect the religious and cultic practices of the ancient Near East. These items were essential for securing the tent coverings and creating a stable, enclosed area for worship and sacrifice.
In summary, Exodus 35:18 reflects the intricate details involved in the construction of the Tabernacle, the communal effort of the Israelites in building a sacred space, and the historical context of their journey towards the Promised Land, all of which are integral to the narrative of the Exodus and the establishment of Israel's religious identity.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)