Exodus 36:36
And he made thereunto four pillars of shittim wood, and overlaid them with gold: their hooks were of gold; and he cast for them four sockets of silver.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּ֣עַשׂ
And he made
H6213
וַיַּ֣עַשׂ
And he made
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 14
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
עַמּוּדֵ֣י
pillars
H5982
עַמּוּדֵ֣י
pillars
Strong's:
H5982
Word #:
4 of 14
a column (as standing); also a stand, i.e., platform
זָהָ֑ב
them with gold
H2091
זָהָ֑ב
them with gold
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
7 of 14
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
זָהָ֑ב
them with gold
H2091
זָהָ֑ב
them with gold
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
9 of 14
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
וַיִּצֹ֣ק
and he cast
H3332
וַיִּצֹ֣ק
and he cast
Strong's:
H3332
Word #:
10 of 14
properly, to pour out (transitive or intransitive); by implication, to melt or cast as metal; by extension, to place firmly, to stiffen or grow hard
Historical Context
The gold-overlaid bars sliding through gold rings attached to gold-overlaid boards created a unified aesthetic—everything visible in God's dwelling reflected the same precious standard. This visual unity reinforced the message of God's consistent excellence.
Questions for Reflection
- What does overlaying both boards and bars with gold teach about the equal value of individual faithfulness and unifying ministry?
- How does the consistent gold overlay (boards, bars, rings) illustrate God's standard of excellence pervading all aspects of His house?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Overlaying bars with gold (וְאֶת־הַבְּרִיחִם צִפָּה זָהָב, ve'et-habberichim tzippah zahav) ensures that elements binding the structure together share the same glory as elements being bound. Unity mechanisms aren't inferior to individual components—both reflect divine character. This teaches that ministry focused on connection and unity (reconciliation, peacemaking, fellowship) is as valuable as other gifts. Those who bind Christ's body together do golden work.