Exodus 26:15
And thou shalt make boards for the tabernacle of shittim wood standing up.
Original Language Analysis
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ
And thou shalt make
H6213
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ
And thou shalt make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 7
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַקְּרָשִׁ֖ים
boards
H7175
הַקְּרָשִׁ֖ים
boards
Strong's:
H7175
Word #:
3 of 7
a slab or plank; by implication, a deck of a ship
לַמִּשְׁכָּ֑ן
for the tabernacle
H4908
לַמִּשְׁכָּ֑ן
for the tabernacle
Strong's:
H4908
Word #:
4 of 7
a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w
Historical Context
These boards were substantial frames, approximately 15 feet tall and 27 inches wide, creating the tabernacle's walls. Unlike solid walls, the frame design allowed for portability while maintaining structural strength during the wilderness wanderings.
Questions for Reflection
- How does standing upright (vertical boards) symbolize resurrection life in Christ?
- In what ways has God overlaid your humanity with His divine nature?
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Analysis & Commentary
Boards (קֶרֶשׁ, qeresh, planks/frames) of acacia wood provide structure. These standing boards contrast with the horizontal coverings, creating the tabernacle's skeleton. Wood represents humanity; these boards stood upright (resurrected position), overlaid with gold (deity). They prefigure believers who were dead but now stand upright in Christ, our humanity transformed by His divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). We are 'living stones' built into a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5).