And the shew-bread— i.e. (By an ellipsis frequent in the Hebrew language) the plates, or patens, for the shew-bread. The Hebrews often mention the thing contained for that in which it is contained.
REFLECTIONS.—God now condescending to dwell among them, the tabernacle is to be erected. Moses delivers all his orders, and is particular on this head. With all convenient speed they must begin; yet, though the work be urgent, the sabbath must not be infringed on pain of death: they may not so much as kindle a fire for any servile work. The sabbath is a day of sacred rest, and to be employed wholly with and for God. The tabernacle is to be built by voluntary contribution: God will be served, not by force, but by choice; and they who love the God of the tabernacle will delight to honour him with their best, and be happy to employ their wealth to so blessed a purpose. He has no part among the true Israel, who has a niggard heart in God's service. The wisest must be selected for the work; it is not every man that is fit for it. It is the shame of many, that when their children are fit for nothing else, they thrust them into the ministry, and count that shining talents should have a more gainful employment. But, surely, the greatest parts and most distinguished abilities can never be so becomingly employed, as in the immediate service of God's church and kingdom.