Summary of Exodus 26:35

This verse is part of God's instructions to Moses regarding the construction and arrangement of the Tabernacle. The verse emphasizes the placement of the table of shewbread and the candlestick within the sacred space of the Tabernacle, specifically highlighting their positions and significance.

Biblical Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry explains that the table represents God's provision, as it was the place where the shewbread (the bread of the Presence) was kept. This bread symbolized God's continual presence and provision for His people, noting that the placement before the veil signifies that God's presence is always accessible to His people.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes discusses the arrangement of the Tabernacle, highlighting how the candlestick's placement opposite the table signifies the interplay of light and sustenance. The candlestick's light represents God's guidance and illumination, essential for understanding God's provision symbolized by the table.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke elaborates on the significance of the 'north side' for the table's placement, drawing a connection to prophecies and themes in scripture, suggesting that this positioning also carries spiritual meaning, as it implies God's ultimate direction and dominion over His people.

Cross References

Exodus 26:35 connects to various other Scriptures, enriching the understanding of the themes presented in this verse:

• 1 Kings 7:49: Discusses the grandeur of the temple furnishings, drawing parallels to the Tabernacle's design.
• John 6:35: Jesus calls Himself the Bread of Life, symbolizing the fulfillment of what the shewbread represented.
• Revelation 1:20: The seven golden candlesticks reflect the symbolism of light and the presence of Christ among His churches.
• Psalm 23:5: "Thou preparest a table before me," resonates with the theme of God's provision and care.
• Hebrews 9:2: References the table in the context of worship in the Tabernacle, linking its significance to the New Covenant.
• Matthew 5:14: A metaphor of believers as lights in the world, connecting to the candlestick's symbolism.
• Exodus 30:6: Details the positioning of the altar of incense, showing the arrangement's spiritual significance within the Tabernacle.
• Philippians 4:19: "But my God shall supply all your needs," reflects the provision seen in the shewbread on the table.
• Isaiah 65:13: Illustrates God's provision for His people, akin to the bread offered in the Tabernacle.
• Luke 12:22-23: Jesus speaks about not worrying for our needs, emphasizing God's ongoing provision akin to the shewbread's symbolism.

Thematic Connections

Exodus 26:35 encourages deeper exploration into various themes within Scripture:

• God’s Provision: The shewbread symbolizes God's sustenance, echoing throughout both the Old and New Testaments.
• Light and Guidance: The candlestick signifies God's illumination and direction, connecting to various exhortations in Scripture.
• Worship and Presence: The arrangement within the Tabernacle underscores the importance of worship and the perpetual presence of God among His people.
• Covenantal Relationship: The furnishings signify an intimate relationship between God and His people, continuing throughout the Biblical narrative.

Tools for Cross-Referencing

For those wishing to delve deeper into the inter-connections between Exodus 26:35 and other verses, consider the following:

• Bible Concordance: A useful tool for locating specific words or themes across various passages.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: This provides insight into parallels and connections between verses.
• Bible Reference Resources: These materials assist in navigating thematic studies of Scripture.
• Cross-Referencing Bible Study Methods: Helpful techniques to identify and analyze related verses, fostering deeper learning.

Conclusion

Exodus 26:35 encapsulates rich themes of provision, light, and worship within the framework of the Tabernacle's design. This verse serves as a focal point for understanding how God desires to dwell among His people, an idea that resonates from the Old Testament into the New Covenant. Through cross-referencing and thematic exploration, believers can gain deeper insight into God's ongoing relationship with humanity and the spiritual truths represented in the sacred furnishings of the Tabernacle.