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The twelve “showbread” loaves, corresponding to the twelve tribes of Israel, were placed on the table in the Holy. This bread represented the sacred value of all the work people do to advance the world and increase its blessing and goodness. Through working, a person becomes a partner with God in developing the world and ensuring its continued existence. In particular, working in the Land of Israel is especially meritorious, as it fulfills the mitzva of settling the Land. It is comparable to working in the Garden of Eden. The table also served as a reminder of the importance of people's obligation to support their family.
