King James Version
What Does Exodus 26:27 Mean?
“And five bars for the boards of the other side of the tabernacle, and five bars for the boards of the side of the tabernacle, for the two sides westward.”
Exodus 26:27 · KJV
Context
25
And they shall be eight boards, and their sockets of silver, sixteen sockets; two sockets under one board, and two sockets under another board.
26
And thou shalt make bars of shittim wood; five for the boards of the one side of the tabernacle,
27
And five bars for the boards of the other side of the tabernacle, and five bars for the boards of the side of the tabernacle, for the two sides westward.
28
And the middle bar in the midst of the boards shall reach from end to end.
29
And thou shalt overlay the boards with gold, and make their rings of gold for places for the bars: and thou shalt overlay the bars with gold.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryFive bars for one side, five for the other—the number five suggesting grace. Grace connects God's people horizontally as redemption (silver sockets) supports them vertically. We stand on redemption and are held together by grace. The specific number (five, not three or seven) emphasizes that connection comes through grace, not law (three) or completion (seven). Only grace can unite sinners into holy dwelling.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
The five bars were likely placed at intervals from ground to top, creating multiple connection points. This ensured that even if one bar failed, others would maintain the wall's integrity, demonstrating redundant strength in God's design.
Reflection Questions
- How does grace 'connect' you to other believers where law would separate?
- What does having multiple 'bars' (connection points) teach about strengthening Christian community?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 13 wordsצֶ֣לַע4 of 13
“of the side”
H6763a rib (as curved), literally (of the body) or figuratively (of a door, i.e., leaf); hence, a side, literally (of a person) or figuratively (of an obje
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֔ן5 of 13
“of the tabernacle”
H4908a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w
צֶ֣לַע10 of 13
“of the side”
H6763a rib (as curved), literally (of the body) or figuratively (of a door, i.e., leaf); hence, a side, literally (of a person) or figuratively (of an obje
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֔ן11 of 13
“of the tabernacle”
H4908a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w
לַיַּרְכָתַ֖יִם12 of 13
“for the two sides”
H3411properly, the flank; but used only figuratively, the rear or recess
יָֽמָּה׃13 of 13
“westward”
H3220a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Exodus 26:27 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.