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Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Exodus 25:10–22. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The first thing which is here ordered to be made is the ark with its appurtenances, the furniture of the most holy place, and the special token of God's presence, for which the tabernacle was erected to be the receptacle.
I.The ark itself was a chest, or coffer, in which the two tables of the law, written with the finger of God, were to be honourably deposited, and carefully kept. The dimensions of it are exactly ordered; if the Jewish cubit was, as some learned men compute, three inches longer than our half-yard (twenty-one inches in all), this chest or cabinet was about fifty-two inches long, thirty-one broad, and thirty-one deep. It was overlaid within and without with thin plates of gold. It had a crown, or cornice, of gold, round it, with rings and staves to carry it with; and in it he must put the testimony, Exo 25:10-16. The tables of the law are called the testimony because God did in them testify his will: his giving them that law was in token of his favour to them; and their acceptance of it was in token of their subjection and obedience to him. This law was a testimony to them, to direct them in their duty, and would be a testimony against them if they transgressed. The ark is called the ark of the testimony (Exo 30:6), and the tabernacle the tabernacle of the testimony (Num 10:11) or witness, Act 7:44. The gospel of Christ is also called a testimony or witness, Mat 24:14. It is observable,
1.That the tables of the law were carefully preserved in the ark for the purpose, to teach us to make much of the word of God, and to hide it in our hearts, in our innermost thoughts, as the ark was placed in the holy of holies. It intimates likewise the care which divine Providence ever did, and ever will, take to preserve the records of divine revelation in the church, so that even in the latter days there shall be seen in his temple the ark of his testament. See Rev 11:19.
2.That this ark was the chief token of God's presence, which teaches us that the first and great evidence and assurance of God's favour is the putting of his law in the heart. God dwells where that rules, Heb 8:10.
3.That provision was made for the carrying of this ark about with them in all their removals, which intimates to us that, wherever we go, we should take our religion along with us, always bearing about with us the love of the Lord Jesus, and his law.
II.The mercy-seat was the covering of the ark or chest, made of solid gold, exactly to fit the dimensions of the ark, Exo 25:17, Exo 25:21.
This propitiatory covering, as it might well be translated, was a type of Christ, the great propitiation, whose satisfaction fully answers the demands of the law, covers our transgressions, and comes between us and the curse we deserve. Thus he is the end of the law for righteousness.
III.The cherubim of gold were fixed to the mercy-seat, and of a piece with it, and spread their wings over it, Exo 25:18.
It is supposed that these cherubim were designed to represent the holy angels, who always attended the shechinah, or divine Majesty, particularly at the giving of the law; not by any effigies of an angel, but some emblem of the angelical nature, probably some one of those four faces spoken of, Eze 1:10. Whatever the faces were, they looked one towards another, and both downward towards the ark, while their wings were stretched out so as to touch one another. The apostle calls them cherubim of glory shadowing the mercy-seat, Heb 9:5. It denotes their attendance upon the Redeemer, to whom they were ministering spirits, their readiness to do his will, their special presence in the assemblies of saints (Psa 68:17; Co1 11:10), and their desire to look into the mysteries of the gospel which they diligently contemplate, Pe1 1:12. God is said to dwell, or sit, between the cherubim, on the mercy-seat (Psa 80:1), and thence he here promises, for the future, to meet with Moses, and to commune with him, Exo 25:22. There he would give law, and there he would give audience, as a prince on his throne; and thus he manifests himself willing to be reconciled to us, and keep up communion with us, in and by the mediation of Christ. In allusion to this mercy-seat, we are said to come boldly to the throne of grace (Heb 4:16); for we are not under the law, which is covered, but under grace, which is displayed; its wings are stretched out, and we are invited to come under the shadow of them, Rut 2:12.
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Summary
Exodus 25:13 provides meticulous divine instructions for the construction of the staves, or carrying poles, for the Ark of the Covenant. These poles, crafted from durable shittim wood and meticulously overlaid with pure gold, were an integral and non-negotiable component of the Ark's design, ensuring its sacred mobility as the tangible throne of God's presence among His people. This verse underscores the profound holiness and divine glory associated with God's dwelling place, emphasizing His precise commands for every detail of the Tabernacle's furnishings.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated within a comprehensive block of divine instructions given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, detailing the construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, which commences in Exodus 25:1. Specifically, Exodus 25:10-22 focuses on the Ark of the Covenant itself—the most sacred object within the Tabernacle, serving as the symbolic throne of God's invisible presence and the repository for the tablets of the Law. The instructions for the staves immediately follow the detailed description of the Ark, highlighting their essential role in its functionality and emphasizing that the Ark was always to be portable and never directly touched. The meticulous nature of these commands, down to the specific materials and precise dimensions, underscores God's absolute sovereignty and His demand for exact obedience in all matters pertaining to His worship.
Historical & Cultural Context
The divine blueprint for the Tabernacle was delivered to the Israelites shortly after their miraculous exodus from Egypt, while they were encamped at Mount Sinai. As a nomadic people journeying through the vast and often perilous wilderness, a portable sanctuary was not merely convenient but absolutely essential for maintaining God's tangible presence and covenant relationship with them. The Tabernacle, with the Ark at its core, functioned as the central point of worship, divine communication, and the visible manifestation of God's covenant with Israel. The choice of "shittim wood" (acacia) was highly practical, as this durable, rot-resistant, and insect-repellent timber was readily available in the Sinai desert. Overlaying this common wood with gold signified the immense value, purity, and divine glory of the Ark and its components, which were consecrated for God's holy purposes. This mobility was paramount, as the Ark frequently led the Israelites in their journeys, symbolizing God's active guidance, protection, and leadership, as powerfully illustrated in passages such as Numbers 10:33.
Key Themes
Exodus 25:13 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of Divine Presence and Holiness. The Ark, and by extension its staves, served as the focal point of God's dwelling among His people, emphasizing His desire for intimate communion while simultaneously underscoring His unapproachable holiness, which necessitated careful handling and specific carrying mechanisms. The detailed instructions highlight the theme of Divine Sovereignty and Meticulousness, demonstrating that God dictates the terms of worship and interaction with Him, leaving no room for human improvisation. The use of specific materials like shittim wood and gold also contributes to the theme of God's Provision and Transformation, showing how common earthly resources are consecrated and glorified for divine purposes. Finally, the very function of the staves emphasizes the Portability of God's Presence, signifying that God is not static but actively journeys with His people, guiding and protecting them through their wilderness pilgrimage, a theme echoed in the broader narrative of Exodus.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
Meaning "separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying." These were long poles specifically designed for carrying the Ark of the Covenant. The underlying meaning of "separation" implies that the Ark was to be set apart and not directly handled by human hands, reinforcing its extreme sacredness. Their continuous presence in the rings of the Ark (Exodus 25:15) further emphasized that the Ark was always ready for movement, signifying God's dynamic, accompanying presence among His people.
Meaning "the acacia (from its scourging thorns)." This refers to acacia wood, a hard, dense, and remarkably durable timber common in the arid regions of the Sinai Peninsula. Its natural resistance to decay and insects made it an ideal material for sacred objects intended for long-term use in harsh environmental conditions. The divine choice of this specific, locally available yet robust material highlights God's practical wisdom and His sanctification of creation for sacred purposes.
Meaning "from an unused root meaning to shimmer; gold, figuratively, something gold-colored." Gold is consistently used throughout the biblical narrative to symbolize divinity, purity, glory, and immense value. The command to "overlay them with gold" indicates a complete covering, transforming the common acacia wood into something radiant, precious, and holy. This act of overlaying signifies the sanctification and glorification of the ordinary by divine presence, making the staves suitable for bearing the Ark of the holy God.
Verse Breakdown
"And thou shalt make staves"
This clause initiates a direct and imperative divine command, emphasizing the absolute necessity of these carrying poles for the Ark. The verb "shalt make" (from H6213, ʻâsâh, "to do or make, in the broadest sense") underscores God's meticulous design and His expectation that every single component of the Tabernacle be fashioned precisely according to His instructions. The staves were not an optional accessory but an integral part of the Ark's functionality, enabling its transportation in a manner that honored its sacredness.
"[of] shittim wood"
This specifies the divinely mandated material for the staves: acacia wood. This choice is significant both practically and symbolically. Practically, the inherent durability and resistance to decay of shittim wood ensured the longevity and structural integrity of the poles, crucial for carrying such a weighty and significant object over long distances. Symbolically, it represents God's willingness to use earthly materials, even those found in the wilderness, to construct objects of divine purpose, elevating the common to the sacred through His command and consecration.
"and overlay them with gold"
This instruction signifies the sanctification, glorification, and purification of the staves. The verb "overlay" (from H6823, tsâphâh, "to sheet over (especially with metal)") implies a complete covering, transforming the wooden poles into objects of immense value and sacredness, reflecting the divine glory of the Ark they were to carry. This act of overlaying communicates purity, preciousness, and the sacredness required for anything associated with God's dwelling place, ensuring that even the means of transport were imbued with divine splendor.
Literary Devices
Exodus 25:13, like the broader instructions for the Tabernacle, primarily employs Divine Command and Detailed Specification. The pervasive use of imperative verbs ("shalt make," "shalt overlay") throughout Exodus 25 underscores God's absolute authority and the non-negotiable nature of His blueprint for worship and sacred objects. The precise naming of materials ("shittim wood," "gold") and components ("staves") exemplifies Detailed Specification, leaving no room for human improvisation or subjective interpretation and highlighting the paramount importance of obedience in all aspects of serving a holy God. Furthermore, the materials themselves carry profound Symbolism: Gold consistently symbolizes God's glory, holiness, purity, and divine presence, while the durable shittim wood can symbolize the enduring nature of God's covenant, His faithfulness, and His provision even in the harsh conditions of the wilderness. The staves, by extension, become a Metonymy for the mobility of God's presence, signifying that He is not confined to a single location but actively journeys with His people.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Exodus 25:13, in its detailed command for the Ark's staves, profoundly illustrates God's meticulousness, His inherent holiness, and His deep desire for an intimate, yet appropriately reverent, mobile presence among His people. The divine precision in specifying materials and construction methods for even a seemingly secondary component like the staves underscores that every aspect of approaching God must be on His terms, reflecting His perfect character, absolute sovereignty, and the sacredness of His dwelling. The use of gold signifies the Ark's divine glory and sacredness, while the durable wood speaks to the enduring nature of God's covenant and His faithful provision. The very function of the staves—to carry the Ark—highlights the overarching theme of God's active accompaniment of His people through their wilderness journey, a tangible representation of His faithfulness, guidance, and protective care.
Reflection and Application
The meticulous detail God provides for the Ark's staves in Exodus 25:13 offers profound and enduring insights for contemporary believers. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is a God of order, precision, and absolute holiness, and He desires our worship, service, and daily lives to reflect these divine attributes. Just as the Ark's staves were made of durable wood overlaid with glorious gold, our "carrying" of God's presence and truth into a fallen world should be characterized by both resilience and reverence. We are called to be faithful stewards of the Gospel, presenting it with purity, integrity, and honor, recognizing the immense value and transformative power of the divine truth we bear. The fact that the Ark was always ready for movement, continuously carried by its staves, challenges us to consider our own readiness and willingness to follow God's leading, allowing His dynamic presence to move through us into every sphere of our lives. This also speaks to the vital importance of respecting the sacred, understanding that while God is infinitely accessible through Christ, He is also utterly holy, requiring a posture of humility, obedience, and profound reverence in our approach and service.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was the Ark of the Covenant always carried by staves and not touched directly?
The Ark of the Covenant was the holiest object in the Tabernacle, symbolizing God's direct presence, His throne, and the very essence of His covenant with Israel. The command to carry it by staves, which were to remain perpetually in its rings (Exodus 25:15), underscored its extreme sacredness and the inherent danger of direct human contact with divine holiness. This was vividly and tragically demonstrated in the account of Uzzah, who died instantly when he presumptuously touched the Ark to steady it during its transport (see 2 Samuel 6:6-7). The staves served as a divinely ordained protective barrier and a means of proper transport, ensuring that only those divinely appointed (the Kohathite Levites) and in the prescribed manner could transport the Ark, thereby maintaining the profound reverence, ritual purity, and necessary separation required for God's holy presence.
What is the significance of "shittim wood" (acacia) and gold in this context?
"Shittim wood," or acacia, was chosen for its practical qualities: it is a hard, dense, and remarkably rot-resistant wood that was readily available in the arid Sinai desert. This choice highlights God's wisdom in utilizing materials that were both accessible to the Israelites and perfectly suited for the long-term, nomadic use of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. Spiritually, its natural strength and durability can symbolize the enduring nature of God's covenant and His faithfulness. Gold, on the other hand, is consistently used throughout Scripture to represent divinity, purity, glory, and immense value. Overlaying the shittim wood with gold transformed the ordinary into the extraordinary, signifying that the staves, though made of earthly material, were consecrated and imbued with divine glory, making them fit for bearing the presence of the holy God. This powerful combination of durable earthly material and glorious divine overlay speaks profoundly to the intersection of the human and divine in God's redemptive plan, where common elements are elevated and sanctified for sacred purposes.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The Ark of the Covenant, meticulously crafted and carried by its golden-overlaid staves, served as the tangible representation of God's portable presence among His people, always ready to move with them through the wilderness. This Old Testament reality finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ, who is the true and eternal dwelling place of God among humanity. Just as the Ark contained the Law and represented God's throne, Jesus is the living Word (see John 1:14), in whom "all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form" (Colossians 2:9). He is God's presence made fully accessible, no longer confined to a physical structure or requiring staves for mobility, but moving freely among people, bringing grace and truth. Christ's own body became the new temple, as He powerfully declared, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up" (referring to His body, John 2:19-21). Through His finished work on the cross and His resurrection, the Holy Spirit now indwells believers, making each one a "temple of the Holy Spirit" (see 1 Corinthians 6:19-20), thereby fulfilling the purpose of the Ark's staves in a profound spiritual sense. We, as His followers, are now commissioned to "carry" His presence and truth into the world, not with physical poles, but as living vessels, embodying His glory and making Him known wherever we go, reflecting the radiance of God's glory that is uniquely and perfectly found in Christ (see Hebrews 1:3).