There are about 450 types of acacia. These vary in size from simple shrubs to trees that provide useful wood. Acacias belongs to the mimosa family and is found in warm regions of the world, including desert regions.
Two types of acacia are of particular interest to Bible students, Acacia seyal and Acacia tortilis. This is because these two species may be the acacias mentioned in the scriptures.
Both varieties are found in the Arabian desert and are practically the only trees that could have provided the material the Israelites needed to build the tabernacle on the Sinai Peninsula.
The larger of the two species is Acacia tortilis. It is not very impressive in inhospitable desert regions. In general it is buttoned and knotted, it is more of a bush than a tree. But under more favorable growing conditions, it can reach heights of up to 7.6 meters. Strong, thin thorns, 3.8 centimeters long, extend from the broad branches of this practical tree.
The coarse black bark covers the fine, hard, orange-brown wood. The intense color of acacia and its natural resistance to insect pests make it perfect for woodworking even today.
The greatest recognition enjoyed by the thorny acacia, however, was the provision of wood for the construction of objects related to the true cult. It was used to make the ark of the covenant, the altar of burnt offering, the altar of burnt offering, the altar of incense, the pillars of this holy furniture, the pillars of the tent and the screen of the tabernacle, and the frames of the tabernacle and its connecting rods.
In fact, the thorny acacia is a tree that is not without distinction. The wood's intense color and durability are much appreciated. The acacia used in the construction of the tabernacle increases its reputation because this tabernacle and its furnishings have been used for about five hundred years.