Exodus 26:25

And they shall be eight boards, and their sockets [of] silver, sixteen sockets; two sockets under one board, and two sockets under another board.

And they shall be eight {H8083} boards {H7175}, and their sockets {H134} of silver {H3701}, sixteen {H8337}{H6240} sockets {H134}; two {H8147} sockets {H134} under one {H259} board {H7175}, and two {H8147} sockets {H134} under another {H259} board {H7175}.

Thus there will be eight planks with their silver sockets, sixteen sockets, two sockets under one plank and two under another.

So there are to be eight frames and sixteen silver basesโ€”two under each frame.

And there shall be eight boards, and their sockets of silver, sixteen sockets; two sockets under one board, and two sockets under another board.

Commentary

This verse, Exodus 26:25, continues the detailed instructions given to Moses for the construction of the portable sanctuary, the Tabernacle, in the wilderness. Specifically, it describes the structural components for one section of the framework.

Context

Exodus chapters 25 through 31 provide God's precise blueprint for the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priestly garments. Chapter 26 focuses on the structure itself: the curtains, coverings, and the wooden framework. Verses 15-30 describe the upright boards that formed the walls. This particular verse specifies the number of boards and their foundational sockets for the western end of the structure, which was narrower than the north and south sides. The meticulous detail underscores the divine design for the place of worship.

Key Themes

  • Precision in Divine Design: The exact numbers (eight boards, sixteen sockets, two per board) highlight the absolute precision God required in building the Tabernacle. Every detail mattered in establishing His dwelling place among His people.
  • Structure and Stability: The boards formed the walls, and the heavy silver sockets served as their foundational support, providing necessary stability for the portable sanctuary in the wilderness environment.
  • Value of Materials: The use of silver for the sockets indicates the value and importance placed on the foundational elements of the structure. The silver for these sockets came from the atonement money collected from the people, adding symbolic significance.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for 'sockets' is 'eden (ืึถื“ึถืŸ), meaning 'base' or 'foundation'. These were substantial bases into which the tenons at the bottom of the acacia wood boards fit, providing a firm footing. The word for 'silver' is kesef (ื›ึถึผืกึถืฃ), a precious metal often associated with redemption and purity in the Old Testament, though here its primary role is structural and valuable.

Reflection

Exodus 26:25, though seemingly a dry list of building materials, speaks to the nature of God's instructions for worship and relationship with Him. His plans are detailed and require careful adherence. The stability provided by the silver sockets reminds us that the foundation of our faith and our approach to God must be secure and built upon valuable, God-given elements. Just as the Tabernacle's structure was held firm by these bases, our spiritual lives need a solid foundation according to God's design, much like the foundation which is Jesus Christ.

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Cross-References

No cross-references found.

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