Exodus 26:20

And for the second side of the tabernacle on the north side [there shall be] twenty boards:

And for the second {H8145} side {H6763} of the tabernacle {H4908} on the north {H6828} side {H6285} there shall be twenty {H6242} boards {H7175}:

"For the second side of the tabernacle, to the north, make twenty planks

For the second side of the tabernacle, the north side, make twenty frames

and for the second side of the tabernacle, on the north side, twenty boards,

Commentary

Context

Exodus 26:20 is part of a highly detailed passage (Exodus 25-27) where God gives Moses precise instructions for building the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. This specific verse focuses on the structural framework of the Tabernacle, specifying the number of upright boards for its north side. The Tabernacle was designed to be God's dwelling place among His people, a physical representation of His presence and a central point for worship and sacrifice. The meticulous nature of these instructions underscores the divine blueprint for a sacred space.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Precision and Order: The exact specification of "twenty boards" for the north side, mirroring its counterpart on the south side, highlights God's meticulous attention to detail. Every aspect of the Tabernacle's construction was divinely ordained, emphasizing order, accuracy, and the importance of following God's commands precisely. This divine blueprint ensured the Tabernacle's structural integrity and symbolic significance.
  • God's Presence Among His People: The ultimate purpose of the Tabernacle, as stated in Exodus 25:8, was for God to "dwell among them." The boards, along with other components, formed the physical enclosure for this holy dwelling, symbolizing God's desire for intimate relationship with humanity.
  • Symbolism of Structure: The sturdy boards, likely made of acacia wood overlaid with gold, provided the necessary stability for the Tabernacle. This foundational strength can symbolize the steadfastness and reliability of God's presence and promises to His people.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "boards" is qeresh (ק֢ר֢שׁ), referring to the upright planks that formed the walls of the Tabernacle. The precision in counting these boards (twenty for each long side, plus additional for the west end) emphasizes the exactness required in all aspects of the Tabernacle's construction, leaving no room for human improvisation regarding God's sacred dwelling.

Practical Application

While we no longer construct a physical Tabernacle, the principles embedded in Exodus 26:20 remain relevant:

  • Obedience to God's Instructions: The detailed commands for the Tabernacle teach us the importance of obedience to God's will. God cares about the "how" as much as the "what" in our spiritual lives and service.
  • God's Desire to Dwell with Us: The Tabernacle prefigured the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who 'tabernacled' among us. Today, God dwells with believers through the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), and ultimately, He will dwell with humanity in the new heaven and new earth.
  • Care in Our Service: Just as God demanded precision in building His dwelling, we are called to serve Him with excellence, care, and attention to detail, reflecting His own character of order and perfection.
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Cross-References

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