Exodus 26:18
And thou shalt make the boards for the tabernacle, twenty boards on the south side southward.
Original Language Analysis
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ
And thou shalt make
H6213
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ
And thou shalt make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 9
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
לַמִּשְׁכָּ֑ן
for the tabernacle
H4908
לַמִּשְׁכָּ֑ן
for the tabernacle
Strong's:
H4908
Word #:
4 of 9
a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w
לִפְאַ֖ת
side
H6285
לִפְאַ֖ת
side
Strong's:
H6285
Word #:
7 of 9
properly, mouth in a figurative sense, i.e., direction, region, extremity
Historical Context
The south side, the right side when facing east, would receive more sunlight. Twenty boards at 1.5 cubits each created a 30-cubit length, matching the inner curtains' dimensions. This south wall formed one of the tabernacle's long sides.
Questions for Reflection
- How does knowing God has assigned your exact place in His dwelling encourage you?
- What 'expectations' or 'waiting' (twenty) have you experienced in finding your place in God's purposes?
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Analysis & Commentary
Twenty boards for the south side, facing southward—the number twenty often relates to expectation or waiting. These boards form half the tabernacle's length, creating structure that will receive God's glory. The specificity ('south side southward') emphasizes precision—each board has its exact place. God doesn't randomly assign His people positions; each has a divinely appointed location in His dwelling (Ephesians 2:10).