Exodus 25:23
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 25:23
23 Thou shalt also make a table of shittim wood: two cubits shall be the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof.
Chapter Context
Exodus 25 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, love, fellowship. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-40: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 25:23
23 Thou shalt also make a table of shittim wood: two cubits shall be the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof.
Analysis
The table of showbread is made of acacia wood overlaid with gold (humanity and divinity united), measuring 2 cubits × 1 cubit × 1.5 cubits. Unlike the Ark (God's throne), this table serves fellowship—God and man sharing bread. The Hebrew לֶחֶם פָּנִים (lechem panim, 'bread of the presence/face') means bread constantly before God's face. Christ declares 'I am the bread of life' (John 6:35), the sustenance of divine-human fellowship.
Historical Context
The table would hold twelve loaves representing the twelve tribes (Leviticus 24:5-9), replaced weekly and eaten by the priests. This sacred bread sustained the mediators, prefiguring Christ who sustains all believers in their priestly service.
Reflection
- How does shared bread symbolize fellowship between God and His people?
- In what ways does Christ, the 'bread of life,' sustain your relationship with God?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Kings 7:48, 2 Chronicles 4:8, Hebrews 9:2