Exodus 36 30

Exodus 36:30 kjv

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

Exodus 36:30 nkjv

So there were eight boards and their sockets?sixteen sockets of silver?two sockets under each of the boards.

Exodus 36:30 niv

So there were eight frames and sixteen silver bases?two under each frame.

Exodus 36:30 esv

There were eight frames with their bases of silver: sixteen bases, under every frame two bases.

Exodus 36:30 nlt

So there were eight frames at the rear of the Tabernacle, set in sixteen silver bases ? two bases under each frame.

Exodus 36 verses

Exodus 36 30 Meaning

Exodus 36:30 describes a critical aspect of the Tabernacle's construction: the precise method by which its upright wooden frames (or planks) were joined together. The verse specifies that each frame was connected "beneath" and "above," utilizing a single, unifying ring for this coupling. This design ensured remarkable structural integrity and stability for the entire sanctuary. The method detailed was not unique to specific frames but was applied universally to all frames, particularly those forming the corners, to create a singular, unified dwelling for God among His people.

Exodus 36 30 Context

Exodus chapter 36 details the actual construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, led by Bezallel and Oholiab, along with other skilled craftsmen. This chapter follows God's specific architectural blueprint revealed in earlier chapters (Exo 25-31). Verses 20-30 specifically describe the fabrication and assembly of the wooden frames, bars, and their associated gold rings, which formed the upright walls of the Tabernacle. The Tabernacle served as God's mobile dwelling place among the Israelites, a physical symbol of His presence, a center for worship, and a constant reminder of His holiness and the need for proper approach to Him. The verse emphasizes the meticulous and strong construction required to form a sacred structure that was both portable and sturdy, essential for the desert wanderings.

Exodus 36 30 Word analysis

• And they were coupled together: Hebrew: חֻבְּרוּ (chubbe'ru) - a Pual passive perfect, indicating that the action was done to them and it resulted in a state of being "joined," "connected," or "united." This signifies a deliberate, precise, and secure union, not merely resting together but being firmly attached. It highlights the divine intent for strength and unity.
• beneath: Hebrew: מִלְּמַטָּה (mill'mattetah) - literally "from below." Refers to the lower parts of the frames where connection points were made. This signifies a strong foundation and a connection starting from the ground up, contributing to stability.
• and coupled together: Reinforces the identical method of joining. Repetition for emphasis ensures complete, robust attachment.
• above the head of it: Hebrew: מִלְמַעְלָה (mill'ma'alah) - "from above." "Head of it" likely refers to the top end or highest point of the frame where another connection was made. This demonstrates the integral and continuous nature of the joinery from bottom to top, preventing any structural weakness.
• to one ring: Hebrew: אֶל־הַטַּבַּעַת֙ הָאֶחָֽת (el-haṭṭababaʿaṯ hā'eḥāṯ) - "to the one ring." This "one ring" was pivotal. It signifies a central, single point of unification, crucial for bringing disparate pieces into perfect alignment and solidity. This singularity reinforces the concept of unity and singular divine purpose in the design. These rings were previously commanded to be made of gold (Exo 26:29), emphasizing the value and sanctity of these connection points.
• thus he did to both of them in both the corners: This phrase confirms the systematic application of this precise coupling method. "Both of them" likely refers to the two adjacent frames at each corner of the Tabernacle, where strength and integrity were paramount. The corner connections were often the weakest points in ancient structures, so this specific mention underscores the exceptional craftsmanship and divine design that ensured overall robustness. This precise corner design ensured not just stability but a perfect alignment, symbolizing the completeness and harmony within God's dwelling.

Exodus 36 30 Bonus section

The precise joinery described for the Tabernacle frames (specifically tenons and sockets, though rings were for the bars that threaded through them, unifying multiple frames) represents an advanced understanding of engineering for its time. This sophisticated construction, often paralleled with the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:16), underscores that God's plan for His dwelling place, whether a physical sanctuary or a spiritual body, involves interconnectedness, intentional design, and unified function. The golden overlay (Exo 26:29) on these frames and rings also meant that these practical, hidden joining elements were themselves made holy and precious, signifying that every part of God's work, visible or unseen, contributes to its glory and sacred purpose.

Exodus 36 30 Commentary

Exodus 36:30 offers a window into the divine precision and structural ingenuity behind the Tabernacle. The detailed description of how the frames were "coupled together" both "beneath" and "above" to a "one ring" reveals a master plan for unity and strength. This was not a makeshift tent but a robust, movable sanctuary built to exact specifications, capable of withstanding the rigors of desert travel. The singular "ring" highlights a central point of connection, implying a divine hand in consolidating disparate elements into a unified whole. This mechanical unity speaks to spiritual truths: just as the physical components were perfectly joined for God's dwelling, so too is His spiritual dwelling, the Church, called to be perfectly united and built upon divine design, centered on Christ. The specific mention of "corners" underlines the importance of robust connections at vulnerable points, metaphorically representing how divine grace and order hold together even the potentially weakest links in His unified plan.