Exodus 25:28
And thou shalt make the staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with gold, that the table may be borne with them.
Original Language Analysis
וְעָשִׂ֤יתָ
And thou shalt make
H6213
וְעָשִׂ֤יתָ
And thou shalt make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 12
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַבַּדִּים֙
the staves
H905
הַבַּדִּים֙
the staves
Strong's:
H905
Word #:
3 of 12
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit
אֹתָ֖ם
H853
אֹתָ֖ם
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
7 of 12
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
זָהָ֑ב
them with gold
H2091
זָהָ֑ב
them with gold
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
8 of 12
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
וְנִשָּׂא
may be borne
H5375
וְנִשָּׂא
may be borne
Strong's:
H5375
Word #:
9 of 12
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
Historical Context
These utensils would be used by priests in preparing and serving the showbread. The drink offerings poured out with the bread (Numbers 28:7) represented complete consecration—both food and drink offered to God in fellowship.
Questions for Reflection
- Why must even the 'utensils' of worship be gold (holy)?
- How does Christ consecrate the 'means' by which we fellowship with God?
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Analysis & Commentary
The table's dishes, spoons, covers (bowls), and flagons (pitchers) are all pure gold. These utensils serve the bread and drink offerings, the implements of fellowship. The Hebrew קְשׂוֹת (qesowth, bowls/covers) possibly covered the bread during transport, protecting sacred food. Pure gold throughout emphasizes that every element of fellowship with God must be consecrated—even the means by which we serve and receive sustenance are holy.