What number verse is Exodus 36:20 in the Bible?

Exodus 36:20 is the 2,587th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Exodus 36:20 sits at position 2,587.

36:1936:19 36:2136:21

Exodus 36:20

“Constructing the Tabernacle Framework”· Exodus 36:20–34Read in context

King James Version

And he made boards for the tabernacle of shittim wood, standing up.

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KJV (with Strong's)

And he made ^H6213 boards ^H7175 for the tabernacle ^H4908 of shittim ^H7848 wood ^H6086, standing up ^H5975.

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Complete Jewish Bible

He made the upright planks of acacia-wood for the tabernacle.

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Berean Standard Bible

Next, he constructed upright frames of acacia wood for the tabernacle.

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American Standard Version

And he made the boards for the tabernacle, of acacia wood, standing up.

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World English Bible Messianic

He made the boards for the tabernacle of acacia wood, standing up.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

Likewise he made the boards for the Tabernacle, of Shittim wood to stand vp.

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Young's Literal Translation

And he maketh the boards for the tabernacle of shittim wood, standing up;

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Douay-Rheims Bible

He made also the boards of the tabernacle of setim wood standing.

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Translation

Cross-References

Exodus 25:5
And rams' skins dyed red, and violet skins, and setim wood:
Exodus 25:10
Frame an ark of setim wood, the length whereof shall be of two cubits and a half; the breadth, a cubit and a half; the height, likewise, a cubit and a half.
Exodus 26:15
Thou shalt make also the boards of the tabernacle standing upright of setim wood.
Exodus 26:29
The boards also themselves thou shalt overlay with gold, and shalt cast rings of gold to be set upon them, for places for the bars to hold together the boardwork: which bars thou shalt cover with plates of gold.
Exodus 40:18
And he put the testimony in the ark, thrusting bars underneath, and the oracle above.
Exodus 40:19
And when he had brought the ark into the tabernacle, he drew the veil before it to fulfil the commandment of the Lord.
Deuteronomy 10:3
And I made an ark of setim wood. And when I had hewn two tables of stone like the former, I went up into the mount, having them in my hands.

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Summary

Exodus 36:20 meticulously records a foundational step in the construction of the Tabernacle: the fabrication of its structural boards from shittim wood, erected upright. This concise verse underscores the precise execution of God's divine blueprint, highlighting the quality and stability required for the sacred dwelling place of His presence among the Israelites. It emphasizes the meticulous craftsmanship and the essential foundational elements that would ensure the integrity and portability of this unique sanctuary, reflecting both divine instruction and human obedience.

Context

Literary Context

Exodus 36:20 is situated within the detailed account of the Tabernacle's actual construction, immediately following the Israelites' generous contributions and the selection of divinely gifted craftsmen like Bezalel and Oholiab. The preceding chapters, beginning with Exodus 25, meticulously outline God's precise instructions for every component of the sanctuary. Chapters Exodus 35 and Exodus 36 then narrate the enthusiastic response of the people and the skilled artisans in fulfilling these commands. This particular verse focuses on the initial, fundamental structural components—the solid walls—that would define the sacred space, preceding descriptions of the coverings, curtains, and furnishings. It illustrates the systematic and orderly progression of the work, moving from the basic framework to the intricate details, all in faithful execution of God's precise commands for His dwelling place.

Historical & Cultural Context

The construction of the Tabernacle unfolded during Israel's forty-year nomadic journey through the arid Sinai desert. In this challenging environment, the choice of materials was critical. "Shittim wood," identified as acacia wood, was indigenous to the desert regions and possessed unique properties that made it exceptionally suitable for the Tabernacle's construction. It is renowned for its hardness, durability, resistance to decay, and imperviousness to insects—qualities essential for a portable sanctuary exposed to harsh desert conditions and intended to last for generations. The concept of a mobile sanctuary was paramount for a people constantly on the move, symbolizing God's dynamic presence accompanying them wherever they went. The boards, designed to stand upright and interlock, formed sturdy walls that could be disassembled and reassembled, reflecting both the practical needs of a nomadic people and the enduring, yet adaptable, nature of God's covenant with them. This central place of worship served as a constant reminder of God's immanence and His covenant faithfulness in the midst of their wilderness wanderings, fulfilling the divine command given in Exodus 25:8.

Key Themes

This verse, though brief, contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. It powerfully illustrates the theme of Divine Instruction and Human Obedience, as the craftsmen meticulously follow God's detailed blueprint for the Tabernacle, demonstrating Israel's faithful response to divine command. It highlights the Holiness of God and His Dwelling Place, emphasizing that the materials and construction must be of the highest quality and integrity to house the divine presence. The durability of the shittim wood and the stability of the "standing up" boards speak to the Steadfastness and Faithfulness of God, whose presence among His people is enduring and secure, even in the transient wilderness. Furthermore, it underscores the theme of Community Participation and Skillful Craftsmanship, as the collective efforts of the Israelites, guided by divinely endowed artisans, bring God's vision to fruition, echoing the call for contributions in Exodus 35:4-9.

Exposition and Analysis

Key Word Analysis

made ʻâsâh' H6213

This primitive root signifies "to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application." In this context, it denotes the active, purposeful, and skilled creation of the boards by the craftsmen, underscoring their diligent and precise execution of God's instructions. It implies not just assembly but the entire process of preparation and fabrication.

boards qeresh' H7175

This term refers to a "slab or plank." These were not thin pieces but substantial, thick planks, likely rectangular and designed to interlock. They formed the primary vertical structural elements of the Tabernacle's walls, providing the essential solidity and framework for the entire edifice.

tabernacle mishkân' H4908

This word means "a residence" or "dwelling place," specifically referring to the Tabernacle (properly, its wooden walls). Its use here emphasizes that these boards were specifically for God's sacred dwelling, a consecrated space where His presence would reside among His people, distinguishing it from any ordinary tent or structure.

standing up ʻâmad' H5975

This primitive root means "to stand, in various relations." As a participle here, it describes the vertical orientation and stable, upright position of the boards. This detail is crucial for visualizing the three-dimensional structure of the sanctuary, indicating that the boards formed the rigid, vertical walls, firmly set in place, likely anchored by silver sockets, ensuring the integrity and steadfastness of the divine dwelling.

Verse Breakdown

"And he made boards"

This clause identifies the agents and their action. "He" refers collectively to Bezalel, Oholiab, and the skilled artisans working under their direction, who were divinely empowered and dedicated to the task. Their "making" involved not just cutting, but shaping, refining, and preparing these substantial planks according to the precise divine specifications, demonstrating their obedience and craftsmanship.

"for the tabernacle"

This specifies the sacred purpose and destination of the crafted boards. They were not for any common construction but exclusively for the "Mishkan," the portable sanctuary designed as the dwelling place for God's presence among His people. This highlights the consecrated nature of the materials and the ultimate goal of creating a holy space for divine-human encounter.

"[of] shittim wood"

This identifies the specific material used—acacia wood (H7848, shiṭṭâh, combined with H6086, ʻêts, for "wood"). The choice of shittim wood was divinely ordained and highly significant due to its inherent qualities: exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to decay and insects. These properties made it perfectly suited for the Tabernacle's demanding desert environment and its intended longevity as a mobile sanctuary.

"standing up"

This describes the crucial orientation and stability of the boards. It emphasizes their vertical position, indicating that they formed the upright walls of the Tabernacle, rather than being laid horizontally or used in a different configuration. This detail is vital for understanding the structural integrity and visual appearance of the sanctuary, signifying the solidity and steadfastness of God's dwelling place.

Literary Devices

Exodus 36:20 employs Precision in its concise description, reflecting the meticulous nature of God's instructions for the Tabernacle's construction. Every detail, from the specific material ("shittim wood") to the exact orientation ("standing up"), is specified, underscoring the divine blueprint's exactitude and the paramount importance of faithful execution. This precision implicitly highlights the profound Symbolism embedded within the Tabernacle's very structure. The "boards standing up" from durable "shittim wood" symbolize the stability, strength, and enduring nature of God's presence and covenant with His people. They represent the firm, unshakeable foundation upon which God's relationship with Israel was built, a structure designed to withstand the rigors of the wilderness and endure through generations. The very solidity of these foundational elements points to the unwavering and steadfast character of the God who chose to dwell within. Furthermore, the verse subtly uses Synecdoche, where "he made boards" represents the entire, complex process of construction overseen by Bezalel and Oholiab, with the boards being a crucial part that stands for the whole foundational work.

Theological and Thematic Connections

Exodus 36:20, in its simple description of the Tabernacle's foundational boards, carries profound theological weight, speaking to the divine insistence on a solid and stable structure for His dwelling place. This reflects God's own unchanging and steadfast character, emphasizing that His presence among His people requires a foundation of integrity and endurance, built precisely according to His specifications. The meticulous crafting of these durable boards underscores the importance of order, obedience, and excellence in all that is dedicated to God. It foreshadows the enduring nature of God's covenant and His desire to dwell securely with His people, a theme that reverberates throughout redemptive history, culminating in the person of Jesus Christ and the Church as His spiritual temple.

1 Corinthians 3:10-11 Ephesians 2:19-22 Hebrews 9:1-5

Reflection and Application

The sturdy boards of the Tabernacle, crafted from resilient shittim wood and standing firmly upright, serve as a powerful metaphor for our individual spiritual lives and the collective body of Christ, the church, as God's dwelling place today. Just as the Tabernacle required a solid, divinely specified foundation, our faith must be built upon the unshakeable truth of God's Word and the person of Jesus Christ. This verse calls us to examine the "boards" of our own spiritual framework: are they made of durable, God-given materials such as truth, righteousness, and genuine faith, or flimsy, temporary substitutes? Are we "standing up" firmly in our convictions, demonstrating steadfastness and integrity in the face of challenges, or are we easily swayed by worldly currents? Furthermore, it reminds us that every contribution, no matter how seemingly mundane—like cutting wood—is vital when done in obedience to God's blueprint and for His glory. Our individual acts of faithfulness, built upon Christ, contribute to the stable and enduring spiritual temple that is the body of believers. We are called to build with integrity, precision, and a deep reverence for the One who desires to dwell among us.

Questions for Reflection

What "shittim wood" (durable, God-given resources like His Word, prayer, community) am I actively using to build and strengthen my spiritual life?
In what specific areas of my life do I need to ensure a more "standing up" (stable, upright, unwavering) posture in my faith, ethics, and obedience to God?
How does my personal commitment to God's "blueprint" (His revealed will and character) contribute to the overall stability, health, and spiritual integrity of the church, His dwelling place today?

FAQ

Why was shittim wood (acacia wood) specifically chosen for the Tabernacle's boards?

Shittim wood (acacia wood) was specifically chosen for several crucial reasons, both practical and symbolic. Practically, it was abundant in the Sinai desert where the Israelites were sojourning, making it a readily available resource. More importantly, acacia wood is exceptionally dense, hard, and durable, known for its remarkable resistance to decay, insects, and the harsh desert climate. These qualities ensured the longevity and structural integrity of the portable Tabernacle, which needed to withstand frequent dismantling and reassembly, as well as exposure to the elements. Symbolically, its resilience could also represent the enduring nature of God's covenant and His steadfast presence, even in challenging and transient environments, ensuring that His dwelling place was built to last.

What was the primary function of these boards in the Tabernacle's structure?

The boards served as the primary structural framework for the Tabernacle's walls. They were substantial, upright planks, likely overlaid with gold, that interlocked together to form a rigid and stable enclosure for the sacred space. These foundational elements provided the necessary support for the various coverings and curtains that draped over them, effectively defining the holy place and the Most Holy Place within the sanctuary. Their design allowed for the Tabernacle to be a secure, yet portable, dwelling place for God's presence among His people, as meticulously detailed in Exodus 26:15-25.

Christ-Centered Fulfillment

The Tabernacle, with its sturdy shittim wood boards "standing up," served as a profound type of God's desire to dwell among His people, a desire ultimately and perfectly fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. While the Tabernacle was a temporary, physical structure, its stability and meticulous construction pointed to the steadfastness of the God who would one day "tabernacle" among humanity in the person of His Son. John's Gospel powerfully declares that "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us," using a Greek word (ἐσκήνωσεν, eskēnōsen) that literally means "tabernacled" or "pitched His tent." Just as the Tabernacle's boards provided its immovable foundation, Christ Himself is the ultimate and eternal foundation upon which God's true spiritual temple, the Church, is built (1 Corinthians 3:11). The durable shittim wood, resistant to decay, beautifully foreshadows Christ's incorruptible body and His eternal, unchanging priesthood (Hebrews 7:24). He is the true and perfect dwelling place of God, the one through whom we now have permanent and direct access to the Father (Ephesians 2:18), permanently establishing God's presence among His people in a way the physical Tabernacle could only anticipate and symbolize.

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Public-domain commentary

Matthew Henry

From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Exodus 36:14–34.

1662–1714 · 21 verses

Passage under commentExodus 36:14–34

14¶ And he made curtains of goats' hair for the tent over the tabernacle: eleven curtains he made them.

15The length of one curtain was thirty cubits, and four cubits was the breadth of one curtain: the eleven curtains were of one size.

16And he coupled five curtains by themselves, and six curtains by themselves.

17And he made fifty loops upon the uttermost edge of the curtain in the coupling, and fifty loops made he upon the edge of the curtain which coupleth the second.

18And he made fifty taches of brass to couple the tent together, that it might be one.

19And he made a covering for the tent of rams' skins dyed red, and a covering of badgers' skins above that.

20And he made boards for the tabernacle of shittim wood, standing up.

21The length of a board was ten cubits, and the breadth of a board one cubit and a half.

22One board had two tenons, equally distant one from another: thus did he make for all the boards of the tabernacle.

23And he made boards for the tabernacle; twenty boards for the south side southward:

24And forty sockets of silver he made under the twenty boards; two sockets under one board for his two tenons, and two sockets under another board for his two tenons.

25And for the other side of the tabernacle, which is toward the north corner, he made twenty boards,

26And their forty sockets of silver; two sockets under one board, and two sockets under another board.

27And for the sides of the tabernacle westward he made six boards.

28And two boards made he for the corners of the tabernacle in the two sides.

29And they were coupled beneath, and coupled together at the head thereof, to one ring: thus he did to both of them in both the corners.

30And there were eight boards; and their sockets were sixteen sockets of silver, under every board two sockets.

31And he made bars of shittim wood; five for the boards of the one side of the tabernacle,

32And five bars for the boards of the other side of the tabernacle, and five bars for the boards of the tabernacle for the sides westward.

33And he made the middle bar to shoot through the boards from the one end to the other.

34And he overlaid the boards with gold, and made their rings of gold to be places for the bars, and overlaid the bars with gold.

Here, 1. The shelter and special protection that the church is under are signified by the curtains of hair-cloth, which were spread over the tabernacle, and the covering of rams' skins and badgers' skins over them, Exo 36:14-19. God has provided for his people a shadow from the heat, and a covert from storm and rain, Isa 4:6. They are armed against all weathers; the sun and the moon shall not smite them: and they are protected from the storms of divine wrath, that hail which will sweep away the refuge of lies, Isa 28:17. Those that dwell in God's house shall find, be the tempest ever so violent, or the dropping ever so continual, it does not rain in. 2. The strength and stability of the church, though it is but a tabernacle, are signified by the boards and bars with which the curtains were borne up, Exo 36:20-34. The boards were coupled together and joined by the bars which shot through them; for the union of the church, and the hearty agreement of those that are its stays and supporters, contribute abundantly to its strength and establishment.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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