What does Exodus 25:27 mean?
ESV: Close to the frame the rings shall lie, as holders for the poles to carry the table.
NIV: The rings are to be close to the rim to hold the poles used in carrying the table.
NASB: The rings shall be close to the rim, as holders for the poles to carry the table.
CSB: The rings should be next to the frame as holders for the poles to carry the table.
NLT: Attach the rings near the border to hold the poles that are used to carry the table.
KJV: Over against the border shall the rings be for places of the staves to bear the table.
NKJV: The rings shall be close to the frame, as holders for the poles to bear the table.
Verse Commentary:
Like the ark (Exodus 25:10–11, 12–14), the sacred table (Exodus 25:23–26) will include rings so it can be carried by poles. Unlike the ark (Exodus 25:15), the table poles (Exodus 25:28) do not have to remain in their rings unless the table is being moved. These rings are to be "close," meaning they should not protrude more than they must.
On the table, Israel will place twelve loaves of sacred bread (Exodus 25:30). This symbolic food is meant only for special purposes (Leviticus 24:5–7) and can only be eaten by the priests (Leviticus 24:8–9). Golden bowls and plates will also rest on this table (Exodus 25:29).
Verse Context:
Exodus 25:23–30 describes a small table designed to hold special bread in the sanctuary of the Lord. The table is to be made of wood overlaid with gold. The table is the same height as the ark (Exodus 25:10) and slightly narrower and shorter. On this Israel will keep twelve loaves (Leviticus 24:5–7) to be eaten under tightly controlled rules (Leviticus 24:8–9). Like the ark, the table has rings so it can be carried by poles. Israel is also told to fashion solid gold plates and bowls for use in various offerings.
Chapter Summary:
Israelites are to contribute precious metals, cloth, oils, and other resources to create a sanctuary for worship and sacrifice. These will be used to form various sacred objects. Among these are the renowned ark of the covenant, a table for consecrated bread, and a lampstand with seven ornate lamps. These will be kept in the most sacred parts of the sanctuary. Upcoming chapters will focus on an elaborate tent which will serve as a portable temple (Exodus 26—28).
Chapter Context:
The Lord has given the foundations of His covenant to Israel (Exodus 20—23) and they have affirmed it (Exodus 24). Now God gives Moses detailed instructions for a system of worship. This begins with designs for a sacred container—the ark of the covenant—as well as a table and lampstand. These will be kept in the "tabernacle:" an ornate tent used as a portable temple for Israel (Exodus 26—28).
Book Summary:
The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.
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