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

EXODUS 36:28KJV
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Exodus 36:28 (KJV)

What does Exodus 36:28 mean?

Exodus 36:28 describes how two boards were made for the corners at the far end of the tabernacle, specifically for the two sides. This verse is part of the instructions about constructing the tabernacle, focusing on how its framework was built to be sturdy and complete.

In this passage, the narrative is about the skilled workers, led by Bezalel and Oholiab, who are carrying out God’s detailed instructions for building the tabernacle. The verse highlights the practical step of making corner boards, which would help stabilize the structure. This detail shows the careful planning and craftsmanship involved in assembling the sacred tent where the Israelites would worship.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 36:28

  • "boards" (קֶרֶשׁ, qeresh): This word refers to the upright wooden planks used as the main structural elements of the tabernacle’s walls. The use of "boards" here emphasizes the solid, frame-like construction rather than fabric or curtains.
  • "corners" (מִקְצֹעַ, miqtzoa): This term means the corner or angle, pointing to the specific boards made to fit at the tabernacle’s rear corners. These boards were likely shaped or positioned differently to connect the side walls securely.
  • "tabernacle" (מִשְׁכָּן, mishkan): This word means "dwelling place" and refers to the portable sanctuary where God’s presence was to dwell among the Israelites. The use of "mishkan" reminds the reader that every detail, even the corners, was part of a sacred space.

Why Exodus 36:28 matters

  • This verse clears up that the tabernacle was not just a simple tent but had a carefully engineered frame, including special boards for the corners to ensure stability.
  • Exodus 36:28 shows the attention to detail in following God’s instructions, underlining that even small parts of the tabernacle’s construction were important.
  • Understanding the construction details helps readers appreciate the craftsmanship and reverence involved in building a place meant for worship and God’s presence.

Where else these words appear

“corners” Hebrew H4742 · used in 2 verses

  • Exodus 26:23 And two boards shalt thou make for the corners of the tabernacle in the two sides.

“sides” Hebrew H3411 · used in 28 verses

  • Genesis 49:13 Zebulun shall dwell at the haven of the sea; and he shall be for an haven of ships; and his border shall be unto Zidon.
  • 1 Kings 6:16 And he built twenty cubits on the sides of the house, both the floor and the walls with boards of cedar: he even built them for it within, even for the oracle, even for the most holy place.
  • Jeremiah 31:8 Behold, I will bring them from the north country, and gather them from the coasts of the earth, and with them the blind and the lame, the woman with child and her that travaileth with child together: a great company shall return thither.

“boards” Hebrew H7175 · used in 34 verses

  • Exodus 26:15 And thou shalt make boards for the tabernacle of shittim wood standing up.
  • Exodus 26:27 And five bars for the boards of the other side of the tabernacle, and five bars for the boards of the side of the tabernacle, for the two sides westward.
  • Exodus 36:27 And for the sides of the tabernacle westward he made six boards.

“tabernacle” Hebrew H4908 · used in 129 verses

  • Exodus 25:9 According to all that I shew thee, after the pattern of the tabernacle, and the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make it.
  • Exodus 40:18 And Moses reared up the tabernacle, and fastened his sockets, and set up the boards thereof, and put in the bars thereof, and reared up his pillars.
  • Numbers 16:9 Seemeth it but a small thing unto you, that the God of Israel hath separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to himself to do the service of the tabernacle of the LORD, and to stand before the congregation to minister unto them?