(The Lord speaking is red text)
And for the north side [the hangings were] an hundred cubits, their pillars [were] twenty, and their sockets of brass twenty; the hooks of the pillars and their fillets [of] silver.
On the north side they were 150 feet long, hung on twenty posts in twenty bronze sockets, with the hooks on the posts and their rings of silver.
The north side was also a hundred cubits long, with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases. The hooks and bands of the posts were silver.
And for the north side a hundred cubits, their pillars twenty, and their sockets twenty, of brass; the hooks of the pillars, and their fillets, of silver.
And for the north{H6828} side{H6285} the hangings were an hundred{H3967} cubits{H520}, their pillars{H5982} were twenty{H6242}, and their sockets{H134} of brass{H5178} twenty{H6242}; the hooks{H2053} of the pillars{H5982} and their fillets{H2838} of silver{H3701}.
1. Themes:
- Precision and Detail: The verse emphasizes the exact measurements and materials used in the construction of the Tabernacle, reflecting the meticulous care taken to create a sacred space for worship according to God's instructions.
- Sacred Craftsmanship: The use of specific materials like brass and silver for the pillars and fillets indicates the sanctity of the objects and the importance of skilled craftsmanship in the service of the divine.
- Divine Blueprint: The detailed description of the Tabernacle's construction reflects the theme that God provides specific instructions for the creation of a space where His presence can dwell among the people.
2. Historical Context:
- The verse is part of the detailed instructions given by God to Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle, which was the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness after the Exodus from Egypt.
- The Tabernacle was a central aspect of Israelite worship before the establishment of the Temple in Jerusalem. It served as the place where God met with Moses and the priests to communicate His will to the people.
- The specifications for the Tabernacle's construction, including the dimensions and materials, were meant to ensure that it was both functional and symbolic, representing the order and holiness of God's dwelling place.
- The materials mentioned, such as brass (or bronze) and silver, were valuable in the ancient world and their use in the Tabernacle indicated the importance and sacredness of the structure. Brass often symbolized judgment and durability, while silver was associated with redemption and purity.
- The verse describes the north side of the Tabernacle courtyard, which was enclosed by hangings suspended on pillars set in brass sockets. The hooks and fillets (decorative bands) being made of silver added to the beauty and sanctity of the structure.
In summary, Exodus 38:11 reflects the detailed specifications for the construction of the Tabernacle, highlighting the importance of craftsmanship and adherence to divine instructions. It is set against the backdrop of the Israelites' journey in the wilderness, where the Tabernacle served as the focal point of their religious life and worship.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)