Exodus 26:22
And for the sides of the tabernacle westward thou shalt make six boards.
Original Language Analysis
וּֽלְיַרְכְּתֵ֥י
And for the sides
H3411
וּֽלְיַרְכְּתֵ֥י
And for the sides
Strong's:
H3411
Word #:
1 of 6
properly, the flank; but used only figuratively, the rear or recess
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֖ן
of the tabernacle
H4908
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֖ן
of the tabernacle
Strong's:
H4908
Word #:
2 of 6
a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w
יָ֑מָּה
westward
H3220
יָ֑מָּה
westward
Strong's:
H3220
Word #:
3 of 6
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
תַּֽעֲשֶׂ֖ה
thou shalt make
H6213
תַּֽעֲשֶׂ֖ה
thou shalt make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
4 of 6
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
Historical Context
The west end (הַיַּרְכָה, yarkah, 'rear parts') formed the tabernacle's back wall behind the veil that separated the Most Holy Place. This solid wall protected the ark's location from external observation or access.
Questions for Reflection
- How does redeemed humanity become capable of containing God's presence?
- What does the 'earthward' side standing on redemption teach about sanctifying the secular?
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Analysis & Commentary
Six boards for the westward side (the rear, where the Most Holy Place sat). The number six suggests man/humanity; the west often represents the earthly or temporal. Yet even the 'earthward' or 'human' side stands on redemption. The westward boards enclosed the Most Holy Place—the innermost sanctum where God's glory dwelt, proving that humanity can contain divine presence when standing on redemptive foundation.