What is the definition of Exodus 38:15? ๐ ๐
And for the other side of the court gate, on this hand and that hand, [were] hangings of fifteen cubits; their pillars three, and their sockets three.
Explanation:
Okay, letโs break down this passage from Exodus 38:15. It's a really interesting detail about how the Israelites were preparing to leave Egypt.
Hereโs what it means in simpler terms:
Essentially, these hangings were meant to ๐protect๐ the Israelites from being attacked by enemies.
Let's unpack that a little further:
๐
โAnd for the other side of the court gateโฆโ
: This refers to the outer boundary of the camp where the Israelites were gathered.
๐
โโฆon this hand and that handโฆโ
: This means they were hanging them on ๐both๐ sides of the gate โ essentially, both sides of the perimeter.
๐
โ[were] hangings of fifteen cubitsโฆโ
: "Cubits" are a unit of measurement used in ancient times, roughly equivalent to 16 feet long. So, fifteen cubits is about 16 feet. So, they were hanging fifteen people โ likely soldiers or individuals โ on each side of the gate.
๐
โโฆtheir pillars three, and their sockets three.โ
: This describes how the people were hung. They were suspended with three pillars (like supports) and three "sockets" (where they were attached).
Whatโs the point?
The biblical text suggests that these hanging executions weren't random. They were a ๐warning๐ to the Israelites โ a sign of impending danger and a demonstration of Godโs power. It was a way to show the enemy that the Israelites were serious about leaving Egypt and would not be taken lightly.
Itโs a powerful image.
It evokes a sense of being watched, threatened, and facing a difficult situation.
Important Note:
This is a very old text, and interpretations have changed over time. It's important to consider the context of the time when this passage was written.
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Do you want me to:
๐ Explain what this passage might symbolize?
๐ Discuss its significance in the story of Exodus?