Old Testament
Exodus 25:28
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God instructs the Israelites on how to create the poles for the table used in worship.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Make the poles out of acacia wood and cover them with gold, so the table can be carried.
And thou shalt make the staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with gold, that the table may be borne with them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs the Israelites on how to create the poles for the table used in worship. The poles are to be made from acacia wood, a strong and durable material, and then covered in gold to signify their importance. This table is not just a piece of furniture; it holds sacred items and represents God's presence among His people. The gold covering symbolizes purity and value, reminding the Israelites of the holiness of their worship. The poles allow the table to be easily carried, emphasizing the need for mobility in their journey. This practical instruction highlights the balance between the sacred and the everyday, showing that even in worship, there are practical considerations. The care taken in crafting these items reflects the reverence the people should have for their relationship with God. Overall, this verse illustrates how God desires to be present with His people in a tangible way, and how they should honor that presence through their actions.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Exodus 25:28 to your life
Consider how you honor the sacred aspects of your life. Just as the Israelites crafted the table with care, think about how you can create spaces or moments that reflect your values. Small acts of reverence can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. Make your environment a reflection of what you hold dear and sacred in your life. This can deepen your connection to what matters most to you and to others around you.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 25:28 mean?
Exodus 25:28 provides instructions for making poles from acacia wood and covering them with gold for the table used in worship. This emphasizes the importance of the table, which holds sacred items and represents God's presence among His people.
What is the significance of acacia wood in Exodus 25:28?
Acacia wood is chosen for its strength and durability, symbolizing the sturdy foundation needed for sacred worship items. The gold overlay signifies the value and holiness of the table, highlighting the reverence required in worship.
Why are the poles covered in gold in Exodus 25:28?
The poles are covered in gold to signify their importance and the sacred nature of the table they support. This gold covering represents purity and the value of God's presence among His people.
What does the table represent in Exodus 25:28?
The table represents God's presence among the Israelites and holds sacred items used in worship. It serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring that presence through careful craftsmanship.

The Book of Exodus
Exodus 1: Israel's Oppression in Egypt
The sons of Israel settle in Egypt, and their families grow rapidly until the land is filled with them. A new Pharaoh arises who does not know Joseph and fears that the Israelites will join Egypt's enemies if war comes, so he places them under harsh labor and forces them to build the store cities Pithom and Raamses. The more they are oppressed, the more they multiply, which increases Egyptian fear. Pharaoh commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill every male child at birth, but they fear God and let the boys live. When Pharaoh confronts them, they say the Hebrew women deliver before the midwives arrive, and God blesses the midwives with households. Pharaoh then commands all his people to cast every Hebrew son into the river while allowing the daughters to live.
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