What number verse is Exodus 36:24 in the Bible?

Exodus 36:24 is the 2,591st verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Exodus 36:24 sits at position 2,591.

36:2336:23 36:2536:25

Exodus 36:24

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

King James Version

And 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.

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KJV (with Strong's)

And forty ^H705 sockets ^H134 of silver ^H3701 he made ^H6213 under the twenty ^H6242 boards ^H7175; two ^H8147 sockets ^H134 under one ^H259 board ^H7175 for his two ^H8147 tenons ^H3027, and two ^H8147 sockets ^H134 under another ^H259 board ^H7175 for his two ^H8147 tenons ^H3027.

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Complete Jewish Bible

He made forty silver sockets under the twenty planks, two sockets under one plank for its two projections and two sockets under another plank for its two projections.

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Berean Standard Bible

with forty silver bases to put under the twenty frames—two bases for each frame, one under each tenon.

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American Standard Version

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

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World English Bible Messianic

He made forty sockets of silver under the twenty boards; two sockets under one board for its two tenons, and two sockets under another board for its two tenons.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And fourtie sockets of siluer made he vnder the twentie boardes, two sockets vnder one board for his two tenons, and two sockets vnder another board for his two tenons.

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Young's Literal Translation

and forty sockets of silver he hath made under the twenty boards, two sockets under the one board for its two handles, and two sockets under the other board for its two handles.

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Translation

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In the KJVVerse 2,591 of 31,102 · 8.3%

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Summary

Exodus 36:24 meticulously details the construction of the Tabernacle's foundational elements, specifically describing the forty heavy silver sockets crafted to support the twenty acacia wood boards that formed the sanctuary's north and south walls. This verse underscores the precise execution of God's divine blueprint, emphasizing the critical role of these substantial silver bases in providing essential stability and structure for the portable dwelling place, with each board perfectly secured by its two tenons fitting into two corresponding sockets.

Context

Literary Context

This verse is situated within the broader narrative of Exodus chapters 35-40, which meticulously recounts the actual construction and erection of the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priestly garments. Following the detailed divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai in earlier chapters (particularly beginning in Exodus 25, with specific instructions for the Tabernacle's structure found in Exodus 26), chapters 35-39 describe the people's willing contributions and the skilled artisans' faithful execution of the work. Chapter 36, in particular, focuses on the construction of the Tabernacle's structural components, including the curtains, frames, and bases. Verse 24 specifically addresses the foundational elements for the north and south sides of the sanctuary, building upon the description of the boards themselves in Exodus 36:20-23. The meticulous detail highlights the direct fulfillment of God's commands, ensuring every part of the sacred dwelling was precisely as ordained.

Historical & Cultural Context

The construction of the Tabernacle occurred during the Israelites' wilderness journey, a pivotal period following their liberation from Egyptian bondage. As a nomadic people, a portable sanctuary was essential for maintaining God's presence among them. The materials, including the silver for these sockets, were largely derived from the freewill offerings of the people. Significantly, the silver for the sockets came from the half-shekel atonement money collected from every Israelite man aged twenty and above, as commanded in Exodus 30:11-16. This made the very foundation of God's dwelling place literally built upon the redemption offerings of His people, symbolizing their collective participation and atonement. The skilled craftsmen, like Bezalel and Oholiab, were divinely endowed with wisdom and understanding for this sacred task, ensuring the highest standards of artistry and precision were met in accordance with the divine architectural plans revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai, as detailed in Exodus 26:19-21. The use of heavy silver sockets for stability was crucial for a structure designed to be disassembled, transported, and reassembled repeatedly across diverse terrains.

Key Themes

This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores the theme of Divine Prescription and Human Obedience, illustrating the Israelites' faithful adherence to God's exact and detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's construction, a testament to their commitment to His covenant. Secondly, the use of silver, specifically from the atonement money, highlights the theme of Redemption and Atonement as the Basis for God's Presence. The very foundation of the sanctuary was built upon the means of reconciliation, signifying that God's dwelling among His people is predicated on their redemption from sin. This concept is introduced in Exodus 30:11-16 and reinforced here. Thirdly, the meticulous design and interlocking components emphasize Stability and Order, reflecting the nature of God Himself—unchanging, reliable, and perfectly ordered. The Tabernacle, as God's dwelling, was designed to be a stable and secure representation of His presence amidst a transient people.

Exposition and Analysis

Key Word Analysis

Sockets ʼeden' H134

From a root conveying strength, this term refers to the heavy, cast silver bases or pedestals into which the wooden boards of the Tabernacle were inserted. Though the verse uses the plural form, the singular ʼeden' denotes a "basis" or "foundation." These substantial bases, each weighing a talent (approximately 75 pounds, as inferred from the total silver used for them in Exodus 38:27), were crucial for the stability of the sanctuary walls, anchoring the upright boards firmly against the desert elements and the movements of the nomadic camp. They were the literal "feet" upon which the Tabernacle stood, signifying a strong and unyielding support.

Boards qeresh' H7175

This word refers to a "slab" or "plank." In the context of the Tabernacle, these were the upright frames or planks of acacia wood, overlaid with gold, that formed the walls of the sacred dwelling. Each board was carefully crafted with two tenons at its base, designed to fit precisely into the silver sockets. Their construction and arrangement, as described in previous verses, created a rigid and self-supporting structure when combined with the connecting bars, forming the very enclosure of God's presence.

Tenons yâd' H3027

While the verse uses the plural form, the singular yâd' literally means "hand." In this context, it refers to the projections or pegs at the bottom of each acacia wood board. The use of "hands" is a powerful metaphor, suggesting their gripping or holding function, as they were designed to be inserted firmly into the corresponding mortises within the silver sockets. This interlocking mechanism ensured a secure and stable connection between the wooden walls and their heavy silver foundations, allowing the entire structure to stand firm and unified.

Verse Breakdown

"And forty sockets of silver he made under the twenty boards;"

This clause specifies the precise quantity and material of the foundational elements. For the twenty boards forming one side of the Tabernacle (either the north or south, as implied by the overall structure), a total of forty silver sockets were required. The "he" refers to Bezalel and the skilled craftsmen working under his divine inspiration and direction, meticulously following the divine instructions. This highlights the exact numerical requirement for the Tabernacle's structural integrity and stability.

"two sockets under one board for his two tenons, and two sockets under another board for his two tenons."

This elaborates on the specific arrangement and interlocking mechanism, clarifying that each of the twenty boards was supported by two distinct silver sockets. Each board had two tenons (projections) at its base, and these tenons were designed to fit securely into the two individual sockets. This dual support system ensured maximum stability and an even distribution of weight, creating a robust and immovable wall system for the sacred dwelling. The precise repetition of "two sockets...two tenons" emphasizes the perfect fit and interlocking nature of these components, signifying divine order and unwavering security.

Literary Devices

The passage employs Precision and Repetition to underscore the meticulous nature of the Tabernacle's construction and God's demand for exact adherence to His blueprint. The exact numbers ("forty sockets," "twenty boards," "two sockets," "two tenons") are not merely descriptive but prescriptive, highlighting God's demand for absolute accuracy in the execution of His divine plan. This precision serves to emphasize the holiness, order, and perfection inherent in God's dwelling place. Furthermore, the Symbolism of the silver sockets is profound. Silver, often associated with redemption, purification, and payment in the Old Testament, was derived from the atonement money. Thus, the very foundation of the Tabernacle, God's dwelling among His people, was built upon the collective offerings of atonement, symbolizing that God's presence is established on the basis of redemption and sacrifice. The heavy, unmovable nature of the sockets also symbolizes Stability and Endurance, representing the firm and unchanging foundation upon which God's covenant relationship with His people rests, capable of withstanding the trials of the wilderness journey.

Theological and Thematic Connections

Exodus 36:24 powerfully illustrates several key theological themes. Firstly, it emphasizes God's absolute demand for holiness and order in His dwelling place. Every detail, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, was divinely specified and meticulously executed, reflecting God's perfect nature and His desire for a sanctuary that perfectly mirrored His glory and purity. Secondly, the silver sockets, derived from the atonement money, underscore the theme of redemption as the basis for God's presence. The very foundation of the Tabernacle was built upon the collective offering for atonement, signifying that access to God's presence is predicated on reconciliation and sacrifice. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice that would establish a new and living way into God's presence. Finally, the interconnectedness of the boards and sockets speaks to unity and stability. Each component, though distinct, was essential and perfectly fitted to create a strong, unified structure, symbolizing the corporate nature of God's people, where each member contributes to the strength and purpose of the whole, firmly established in God's design.

Exodus 25:8 Exodus 30:16 1 Corinthians 3:11

Reflection and Application

The meticulous detail in Exodus 36:24 serves as a profound reminder that God cares deeply about the foundations upon which things are built, whether physical structures or spiritual lives. Just as the Tabernacle required heavy, costly, and precisely fitted silver sockets for its stability, so too does our faith and Christian walk require a firm and divinely ordained foundation. This verse calls us to examine the "sockets" of our lives – the core beliefs, values, and commitments that support our spiritual structure. Are they solid, weighty, and derived from a place of redemption and sacrifice? It encourages us to build with diligence and precision, recognizing that even the seemingly small details of obedience and faithfulness contribute to the overall strength and integrity of our walk with God. Furthermore, the unity of the boards and sockets can inspire us to value the interconnectedness within the body of Christ, where each member, firmly rooted in the truth, contributes to the stability and collective witness of God's spiritual house, enabling it to stand strong against the shifting sands of the world.

Questions for Reflection

What "foundations" are you building your life upon, and are they as solid and weighty as the silver sockets of the Tabernacle?
How does the detail and precision in this verse speak to the importance of diligence and faithfulness in your own service to God?
In what ways does your personal "atonement money" – your redeemed life – contribute to the stability and presence of God in your community or church?

FAQ

Why were the sockets made of silver and not gold, given that gold was used for so much of the Tabernacle?

The use of silver for the sockets, rather than gold, is highly significant and intentional. While gold symbolized divinity, purity, and glory, silver in the Old Testament was often associated with redemption, atonement, and payment. The silver for these sockets was specifically derived from the half-shekel atonement money collected from every Israelite man aged twenty and above (as detailed in Exodus 30:11-16). This means the very foundation of God's dwelling place among His people was literally built upon the collective offerings of atonement, emphasizing that God's presence is established on the basis of redemption and the reconciliation of His people. It powerfully symbolizes that access to God is granted through a payment for sin, foreshadowing the ultimate redemption found in Christ.

What is the significance of "two sockets under one board for his two tenons"?

This specific detail emphasizes the extreme stability and precision required for the Tabernacle's structure. Each board, forming part of the sanctuary wall, had two tenons (projections) at its base. These two tenons fit into two separate, heavy silver sockets. This dual support system provided unparalleled stability, ensuring that the walls of the holy dwelling were firmly anchored and could withstand the elements and the rigors of being transported across the wilderness. It highlights God's demand for a perfectly stable and secure dwelling place, symbolizing the unshakeable nature of His presence and His covenant. It also illustrates the principle of strong, redundant support for a sacred purpose, ensuring the integrity of the structure.

Christ-Centered Fulfillment

Exodus 36:24, with its focus on the foundational silver sockets, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment. The heavy, costly silver sockets, derived from the atonement money, powerfully prefigure Jesus Christ as the ultimate and unshakeable foundation of God's dwelling among humanity. Just as the Tabernacle's stability rested entirely upon these sockets, so too does the spiritual house of God, the Church, rest upon Christ, the "chief cornerstone" (Ephesians 2:20) and the only true foundation upon which we can build (1 Corinthians 3:11). The silver, representing atonement, points directly to Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross, the once-for-all payment for sin that truly redeems and reconciles humanity to God (Hebrews 9:12). He is the true "atonement money" by which we gain access to God's presence and are made acceptable. Furthermore, the perfect fit of the boards into their sockets symbolizes the believer's secure placement in Christ; we are firmly rooted and established in Him, the solid ground upon which our faith stands (Colossians 2:7). The meticulous precision of the Tabernacle's construction foreshadows the perfect work of Christ, who flawlessly fulfilled every divine requirement, establishing a new and living way for God to dwell with His people, not in a temporary tent, but in the hearts of believers through the Holy Spirit (John 14:23; 1 Corinthians 6:19).

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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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