Exodus 37:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 37:10
10 And he made the table of shittim wood: two cubits was the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof:
Chapter Context
Exodus 37 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, love, judgment. 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 21-29: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 37:10
10 And he made the table of shittim wood: two cubits was the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof:
Analysis
Bezaleel makes the table (שֻׁלְחָן, shulchan) of shittim wood, continuing the pattern of acacia overlaid with gold—humanity clothed in divinity. The table held the bread of the Presence (לֶחֶם הַפָּנִים, lechem ha-panim, 'bread of the faces'), representing God's provision and Israel's perpetual presentation before Him. This table anticipates communion—Christ the bread of life (John 6:35) inviting believers to fellowship at His table, where He provides spiritual sustenance and we present ourselves as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1).
Historical Context
The table of showbread stood in the Holy Place (just outside the veil), on the north side opposite the golden lampstand. Twelve loaves of bread sat on it continually, replaced each Sabbath. Only priests could eat the removed bread (Leviticus 24:5-9), prefiguring the holy meal of communion.
Reflection
- How does the table of showbread illustrate both God's provision for His people and their presentation before Him?
- In what ways does this table prefigure communion, where Christ provides the bread of life and invites believers to fellowship?