Book of Exodus - Chapter 25 - Verse 13

In this verse, the instructions are given to make staves using shittim wood and overlay them with gold. Staves are essentially poles or rods that are used for carrying or supporting something, such as the Ark of the Covenant. Shittim wood, also known as acacia wood, was a durable and long-lasting material that was often used in the construction of important items in the tabernacle. By overlaying the staves with gold, it added an element of beauty and significance to them, as gold was a precious metal that symbolized purity, value, and importance.

This particular instruction was part of the detailed guidelines provided in the Bible for the construction of the tabernacle, a sacred space where the Israelites would worship and connect with God. Each component of the tabernacle had specific materials, dimensions, and purposes, all of which were designed to reflect the holiness and glory of God. The use of shittim wood and gold for the staves was not just for practical purposes, but also to emphasize the sacredness of the objects they would be used to carry and support.

In the verse where it mentions making staves of shittim wood overlaid with gold, there is a deep theological significance that can be gleaned from this instruction. The use of shittim wood, also known as acacia wood, was a common material used in constructing items related to worship in the Old Testament. This particular type of wood is known for its durability and resistance to decay, symbolizing the eternal nature of God and His covenant with His people. The overlaying of the wood with gold speaks to the purity and preciousness of God's presence in the Tabernacle. Gold was considered a symbol of divinity and was often used in the construction of sacred items. Therefore, the combination of shittim wood and gold in the staves highlights the holiness of the Tabernacle and emphasizes the importance of approaching God with reverence and awe.