Exodus Chapter 36 · Verse 21
The length of a board was ten cubits, and the breadth of a board one cubit and a half.
Original Language Analysis
עֶ֥שֶׂר
was ten
H6235
עֶ֥שֶׂר
was ten
Strong's:
H6235
Word #:
1 of 10
ten (as an accumulation to the extent of the digits)
הָֽאַמָּ֔ה
cubit
H520
הָֽאַמָּ֔ה
cubit
Strong's:
H520
Word #:
2 of 10
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
הַקֶּ֥רֶשׁ
of a board
H7175
הַקֶּ֥רֶשׁ
of a board
Strong's:
H7175
Word #:
4 of 10
a slab or plank; by implication, a deck of a ship
הָֽאַמָּ֔ה
cubit
H520
הָֽאַמָּ֔ה
cubit
Strong's:
H520
Word #:
5 of 10
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
הָֽאַמָּ֔ה
cubit
H520
הָֽאַמָּ֔ה
cubit
Strong's:
H520
Word #:
7 of 10
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
Historical Context
The standardized measurements allowed forty-eight boards (twenty per side, six for the back, plus corner boards) to fit together precisely, creating a stable rectangular structure. The uniformity was essential for repeated assembly and disassembly during travels.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the requirement for identical board dimensions teach about individual formation for corporate function?
- How does precision in individual components enabling corporate unity illustrate New Testament teaching on spiritual gifts and body life?
Analysis & Commentary
Precise dimensions (ten cubits length, cubit and a half breadth—approximately 15' × 2.25') emphasize God's exact specifications. Each board's uniformity enabled proper joining, illustrating that believers, though individually complete, must fit together according to divine design. The phrase 'one board' (הַקֶּרֶשׁ הָאֶחָד, ha-keresh ha-echad) repeated for measurements stresses individual accountability within corporate structure—each person must be properly formed to join correctly with others.