What was the primary purpose of the Table of Shewbread in the Tabernacle?

The primary purpose of the Table of Shewbread was to hold the "bread of presence" (shewbread) perpetually before the Lord in the Holy Place. This symbolized God's constant, abiding presence among His people and His faithful, continuous provision for their physical and spiritual sustenance. It also represented the ongoing covenant relationship between God and the twelve tribes of Israel, signifying their communion with Him. The table and its bread were a tangible reminder of God's commitment to nourish and sustain His chosen people throughout their wilderness journey and beyond, establishing a pattern of divine-human fellowship, as detailed in Leviticus 24:5-9. Its portability, facilitated by the staves, also emphasized that God's presence was not confined to a single location but journeyed with His people.

35:12 35:12

Exodus 35:13

35:14 35:14

Bible Versions

The table, and his staves, and all his vessels, and the shewbread,

The table {H7979}, and his staves {H905}, and all his vessels {H3627}, and the shewbread {H6440}{H3899},

the table with its poles, all its utensils and the showbread;

the table with its poles, all its utensils, and the Bread of the Presence;

the table, and its staves, and all its vessels, and the showbread;

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 25:23

¶ Thou shalt also make a table [of] shittim wood: two cubits [shall be] the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof.
Exodus 25:30

And thou shalt set upon the table shewbread before me alway.
Leviticus 24:5

And thou shalt take fine flour, and bake twelve cakes thereof: two tenth deals shall be in one cake.
Leviticus 24:6

And thou shalt set them in two rows, six on a row, upon the pure table before the LORD.
Exodus 37:10

¶ And he made the table [of] shittim wood: two cubits [was] the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof:
Exodus 37:16

And he made the vessels which [were] upon the table, his dishes, and his spoons, and his bowls, and his covers to cover withal, [of] pure gold.

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Bible Versions