What does Exodus 25:15 mean?
ESV: The poles shall remain in the rings of the ark; they shall not be taken from it.
NIV: The poles are to remain in the rings of this ark; they are not to be removed.
NASB: The poles shall remain in the rings of the ark; they shall not be removed from it.
CSB: The poles are to remain in the rings of the ark; they must not be removed from it.
NLT: These carrying poles must stay inside the rings; never remove them.
KJV: The staves shall be in the rings of the ark: they shall not be taken from it.
NKJV: The poles shall be in the rings of the ark; they shall not be taken from it.
Verse Commentary:
The ark of the covenant (Exodus 25:10–11) was to include four rings attached to its feet (Exodus 25:12). These were the contact points for gilded poles (Exodus 25:13–14). Israel was to carry the ark with these poles, and only these poles. This was a rule the Lord took seriously (1 Chronicles 15:13–15). To emphasize this importance, the poles are to remain in their rings permanently.
Using poles would make transporting the ark much easier. The box itself is large. It will carry stone tablets (Exodus 24:12; 25:16; 2 Chronicles 5:10). The lid of the box is a solid metal "mercy seat" with two sculptures of angels on top (Exodus 25:17–18). Four rings for poles would make it possible for at least two men, and more likely four, to carry the sacred container.
Verse Context:
Exodus 25:10–22 records the design of the ark of the covenant. This is a wooden box with square ends and rectangular sides overlaid with gold. Rings will be used to hold poles for carrying the ark. This box will store the written laws given by God to Israel (Exodus 24:12). The ark's lid features two golden angels facing each other with outstretched, covering wings. This "mercy seat" will be the focal point of God's interactions with Israel. Since the angels are not being worshipped, they are not the prohibited "graven images" of the second commandment (Exodus 20:4–6). Scripture never credits the ark as a source of supernatural power.
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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