Exodus 38:20 - All the pins of the tabernacle, and around the court, were of brass.

Generated Verse: Exodus 38:20

What does "Exodus 38:20" mean?


Exodus 38:20 states: "All the pins of the tabernacle, and all the pins of the court all around, were of bronze." (The word "brass" in older translations is often rendered as "bronze" in more modern translations, as bronze was the more common metal at the time.)

This verse refers to a specific detail in the construction of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary built by the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. Here's a breakdown of what the verse signifies:

Pins: These were likely stakes or pegs used to secure the fabric walls of the Tabernacle and the surrounding courtyard. Think of them like tent pegs used to hold a tent in place. They were essential for maintaining the structure and stability of the Tabernacle and its courtyard.

Tabernacle: This was the main sanctuary where God was worshipped. It housed the Ark of the Covenant and other sacred objects.

Court: This was the outer area surrounding the Tabernacle, enclosed by linen curtains. It provided a space for the priests and the people to gather for worship and offerings.

Bronze: The use of bronze is significant. Bronze (or brass in some older translations) was a durable and relatively valuable metal. Its use for these pins indicates:

Strength and Durability: The pins needed to be strong enough to withstand the elements and the strain of holding the fabric walls in place. Bronze was a suitable material for this purpose.
Value and Significance: Using a metal like bronze, rather than something like wood, implies a certain level of importance and value assigned to these structural elements of the Tabernacle and the courtyard. This reflects the reverence and care with which the Israelites were instructed to build the sanctuary.
Availability: Bronze was a metal that the Israelites were able to work with, and it was accessible enough to be used for a large number of pins.

Symbolic Interpretations (Beyond the Literal):

While the verse has a practical purpose in describing the construction of the Tabernacle, it can also be interpreted symbolically:

Security and Stability: The pins, holding the Tabernacle and court securely, can symbolize God's secure presence among His people. They can represent the stability and order that God brings to their lives.
Foundation and Grounding: The pins being driven into the ground can represent the grounding of the faith in God. They can symbolize the foundational principles of the relationship between God and His people.

In summary, Exodus 38:20 is a seemingly small detail in the overall description of the Tabernacle. However, it highlights the care and precision with which the Israelites were instructed to build this sacred space. The use of bronze for the pins emphasizes the importance of stability, durability, and value in the construction of the Tabernacle and its surrounding court, reflecting the reverence and dedication they were to show to God. It can also carry symbolic weight related to the secure presence of God and the grounding of their faith.

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