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the north side
The north side of the tabernacle was one of the four sides of this rectangular structure. In biblical symbolism, directions often hold significance. The north can represent judgment or mystery, as seen in other scriptures likeJeremiah 1:14. The orientation of the tabernacle was specific, with the entrance facing east, which is often associated with new beginnings and the coming of light.

he made twenty frames
The frames, or boards, were part of the tabernacle's structure, providing stability and form. Each frame was made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold, signifying both the humanity and divinity of Christ, as wood represents humanity and gold represents divinity. The number twenty, in biblical numerology, can symbolize a complete or perfect waiting period, as seen in the twenty years Jacob waited to be freed from Laban (Genesis 31:38-41). The meticulous construction of the tabernacle reflects the order and precision of God's instructions, pointing to the importance of obedience and reverence in worship.

Exodus 36:25a: “For the second side of the tabernacle…”

• The “second side” follows verse 23, where the craftsmen completed the south wall. Now attention shifts north, underscoring the meticulous order in God’s blueprint (Exodus 26:18–20; 36:23).

• Two equal sides (south and north) picture balance and wholeness in God’s dwelling.Hebrews 8:5 reminds us that Moses was to “make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain,” so every repeated detail matters.

• Repetition also highlights faithfulness: if God gives a plan once, He will see it fully carried out (Philippians 1:6).

Exodus 36:25b: “…the north side…”

• The tabernacle entrance faced east (Exodus 27:13–16). Standing at the doorway, the north wall was on the left, paralleling the south wall on the right.

• Israel camped by compass points: Dan, Asher, and Naphtali took the north (Numbers 2:25–31). The Lord’s house nestled right in the center (Numbers 2:17), illustrating that every tribe—north included—was oriented toward Him.

• Direction carries symbolic weight: the north often signified hidden things (Job 37:22) and, in prophecy, threats (Jeremiah 1:14). Yet here, the north side is secured, showing God’s sovereignty over every direction of life.

• Ezekiel’s vision of a future temple also notes north-side chambers (Ezekiel 42:1–2), suggesting continuity in divine architecture.

Exodus 36:25c: “…he made twenty frames.”

• The frames (boards) were acacia wood overlaid with gold, each fitted with two tenons and set in silver bases (Exodus 36:26,Exodus 26:19,29).

• Twenty identical pieces:

– Emphasize unity—many boards, one wall (Ephesians 4:16).

– Provide strength—stability against desert winds, just as believers are “being built together into a dwelling place for God” (Ephesians 2:21–22).

– Match the south wall’s twenty boards (Exodus 36:23), teaching that God’s standards never fluctuate between one side and another (Malachi 3:6).

• Crossbars joined the frames (Exodus 36:31–33). Picture Christ, the true bond of the household of faith (Colossians 1:17).

• Silver bases undergirded each frame (Exodus 36:24). Silver often depicts redemption (Numbers 3:47). The wall could not stand without a foundation of purchased grace (1 Peter 1:18–19).

Exodus 36:25 shows the craftsmen mirroring on the north what God already prescribed for the south: twenty acacia-and-gold frames, anchored in silver, forming the tabernacle’s second long wall. The verse testifies to God’s orderly design, equal care for every side, and the sturdy, redeemed framework He desires for His dwelling among His people.

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