Exodus 26:26 from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible reads, "And thou shalt make bars of shittim wood; five for the boards of the one side of the tabernacle." This verse is part of a larger passage in the book of Exodus that details the construction of the tabernacle, a portable sanctuary that the Israelites were instructed to build according to the specifications given to Moses by God.

The tabernacle held great significance for the Israelites as it was the place where they could meet with God and offer sacrifices. It was a symbol of God's presence among his people and a foreshadowing of the Messiah who would come to dwell among humanity.

In examining Exodus 26:26 in the context of the larger passage, we see that God is giving specific instructions for the construction of the tabernacle. The use of shittim wood for the bars is significant because this type of wood was known for its durability and strength. This emphasizes the importance and integrity of the structure of the tabernacle, representing the stability and permanence of God's presence among his people.

The bars were integral to the construction of the tabernacle as they were used to hold the boards in place, providing support and strength to the entire structure. This speaks to the importance of unity and cohesion within the community of believers, as each individual has a role to play in upholding the body of Christ.

Furthermore, the number five is mentioned in this verse, indicating that there were five bars for the boards on one side of the tabernacle. The number five carries symbolic meaning throughout the Bible and is often associated with God's grace and favor. This further emphasizes the divine purpose and significance of the tabernacle as a place where God's grace and favor would be extended to his people.

The use of shittim wood and the construction of the bars also hold symbolic significance in the broader context of the tabernacle and its representation of Christ. The use of wood as a material for the bars points to the humanity of Christ, as he took on flesh and dwelt among us. The bars themselves serve as a representation of the cross, reminding us of the sacrifice Christ made for our salvation.

In addition, the construction of the tabernacle and the specific details outlined in Exodus were a precursor to the construction of the temple in Jerusalem. The temple served as a place of worship and sacrifice, and ultimately as a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. The bars made of shittim wood can therefore be seen as a representation of the foundation and support of our faith, with Christ as the cornerstone.

In summary, Exodus 26:26 holds rich symbolic meaning within the broader context of the tabernacle and the biblical narrative. It emphasizes the strength, stability, and unity of God's presence among his people, and points to the sacrificial work of Christ on the cross. This verse serves as a reminder of God's grace and favor extended to us, as well as the importance of our faith and unity in upholding the body of Christ.