Bible Dictionary
TENON
Tenons were projecting pieces on the boards of the tabernacle that fitted into sockets and helped hold the structure securely in place. Each board had two such supports, allowing the tabernacle to be dismantled and erected during Israel’s journeys.
Definition
Tenons were projecting pieces on the boards of the tabernacle. Each of the forty-eight boards had two tenons, which fitted into sockets and helped keep the boards upright and secure.
Biblical Usage
The tenons formed part of the appointed construction of the tabernacle described in Exodus. Their arrangement made it possible for the structure to be taken down and erected again whenever Israel moved.
Historical Background
The tenons were likely made of harder wood than the acacia boards so that they could bear strain from wind and weather. They were sunk into sockets, allowing the tabernacle to be quickly reassembled at each removal.
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>ten'-un (yadh): This word, occurring in Ex 26 and 36, is used in the account of the tabernacle to describe the "hand" or yadh by which its 48 boards were kept in place. Each board had two tenons which were mortised into it (Ex 36:22 margin). These tenons would be made of harder wood than the acacia, so as better to stand the strain of wind and weather. When in use the tenons were sunk into the "sockets" (which see), and allowed of a speedy reerection of the tabernacle at its every remove.</p><p>Sockets are also mentioned as in use for the standards of the tabernacle court (Ex 27:10), but there is no mention of tenons. It may be that the base of each standard was let into its socket, without the use of any tenon. This would give it sufficient stability, as the height of each standard was but 5 cubits (7 1/2 ft.) (Ex 27:18).</p><p>For Professor A. R. S. Kennedy's different theory of "tenons," see TABERNACLE, and his own article on the "Tabernacle" in HDB, IV.</p><p>W. Shaw Caldecott</p>