Exodus 26:17 MEANING

(17) Two tenons.--By "tenons" here are meant projections, probably round, from the end of each plank, made to fit into holes prepared for them in the "sockets." They were to be "set in order one against another": i.e., placed regularly at certain intervals, so that each corresponded in position to its fellow.

Verse 17. - Two tenons. Literally, "hands." Projecting rods, such as those common in our dinner tables, seem to be meant. They may have been of metal, let into the boards to a certain depth, and projecting several inches beyond them. Or, possibly, they may have been of acacia wood. In one board - i.e. "In each board" - no doubt, at the bottom of each. Set in order one against the other. Arranged, i.e., at regular intervals, the position of each corresponding to the position of its fellow.

26:15-30 The sockets of silver each weighed about 115 pounds; they were placed in rows on the ground. In every pair of these sockets, a strong board of shittim-wood, covered with plates of gold, was fitted by mortises and tenons. Thus walls were formed for the two sides, and for the west end. The wall was further held together by bars, which passed through rings of gold. Over this the curtains were spread. Though movable, it was strong and firm. The materials were very costly. In all this it was a type of the church of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief Corner-stone, Eph 2:20,21.Two tenons shall there be on one board,.... Every board was to be so cut and shaped at the lower end of it, as to have, as it were, "two hands" (r), as in the original, to enter into, lay hold on, and fasten in mortises:

set in order one against another; at a proper distance from each other, as the rounds of a ladder:

thus shalt thou make for all the boards of the tabernacle; everyone was to have two tenons.

(r) "duae manus", Montanus.