Exodus 39 Summary Moses Approves the WorkVerses 1–7 – The Ephod Completed Verses 8–21 – The Breastpiece of Judgment Verses 22–26 – The Blue Robe Verses 27–31 – Linen Tunics and the Golden Crown Verses 32–41 – The Tabernacle Finished Verses 42–43 – Inspection and Blessing In this scripture passage, we witness the diligent construction of holy garments and the completion of the sacred Tabernacle. The divinely commanded craftsmanship highlights the careful obedience of the Israelites and the importance of the intricate details in worship. Why the Priestly Garments Matter The garments set the priests apart and display God’s desire for beauty and order (Exodus 28:2). • Ephod & breastpiece—representation: Israel on shoulders and heart (Exodus 28:12, 29). • Robe—approach: bells protect Aaron’s life (Leviticus 16:2). • Crown—devotion: holiness inscribed for all to see (Zechariah 14:20). Colors & Materials—Layers of Meaning • Gold: divine glory (Revelation 21:18). • Blue: heaven, obedience (Numbers 15:38). • Purple: royalty (Judges 8:26; John 19:2). • Scarlet: sacrifice (Isaiah 1:18; Hebrews 9:22). • Fine linen: purity (Revelation 19:8). • Gems: treasured people (Malachi 3:17; Revelation 21:19-20). Ephod & Breastpiece—Names on Shoulders and Heart “‘Aaron shall bear the names of the sons of Israel… as a continual memorial before the LORD.’” (Exodus 28:29) • Shoulders—strength (Deuteronomy 33:27). • Heart—affection (Deuteronomy 7:7-8). • Fulfilled in Christ: “He always lives to intercede for them.” (Hebrews 7:25). Blue Robe—Bells & Pomegranates • Bells: announce holiness (Psalm 89:7). • Pomegranates: fruitfulness (Songs 4:13). Sound doctrine joined with fruitful living (John 15:8). The Golden Plate—“HOLY TO THE LORD” Ex 39:30-31: “They also made the plate of the holy diadem of pure gold, and they inscribed on it… HOLY TO THE LORD.” Believers likewise are bought at a price (1 Corinthians 6:20). Craftsmanship & Community Repeated phrase: “as the LORD had commanded.” • God gifts individuals (Exodus 31:1-6; 1 Peter 4:10). • Excellence is worship (Colossians 3:17). • Men and women contribute (Exodus 35:25-26). Completion & Inspection “So all the work… was completed” (Exodus 39:32). Moses verifies obedience before God’s glory fills the tabernacle (James 1:22-25). “It is finished” (John 19:30) echoes the same pattern. Archaeological Notes • Blue/purple dyes from murex snails; scarlet from cochineal insects. • Loom weights at Tel Timnah show advanced weaving. • Onyx deposits lie east of the Gulf of Aqaba. • A Second-Temple gold bell found in Jerusalem (2011) mirrors Aaron’s robe. Looking to Christ Heb 8-10 links Aaron’s attire to Jesus: representation, once-for-all access, and perfect holiness. Twelve stones foreshadow the apostles (Revelation 21:14), uniting God’s people across covenants. Living It Today • Identity: God engraves our names (Isaiah 49:16). • Accuracy: follow His pattern (1 Samuel 15:22). • Unity: gifts combine (Ephesians 4:16). • Holiness: visible devotion (1 Peter 1:15).
The Ephod 1From the blue, purple, and scarlet yarn they made specially woven garments for ministry in the sanctuary, as well as the holy garments for Aaron, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 2Bezalel madea the ephod of finely spun linen embroidered with gold, and with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn. 3They hammered out thin sheets of gold and cut threads from them to interweave with the blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen—the work of a skilled craftsman. 4They made shoulder pieces for the ephod, which were attached at two of its corners, so it could be fastened. 5And the skillfully woven waistband of the ephod was of one piece with the ephod, of the same workmanship—with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 6They mounted the onyx stones in gold filigree settings, engraved like a seal with the names of the sons of Israel. 7Then they fastened them on the shoulder pieces of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel, as the LORD had commanded Moses. The Breastpiece 8He made the breastpiece with the same workmanship as the ephod, with gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with finely spun linen. 9It was square when folded over double, a span long and a span wide.b 10And they mounted on it four rows of gemstones:c The first row had a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald; 11the second row had a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond; 12the third row had a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; 13and the fourth row had a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper. These stones were mounted in gold filigree settings. 14The twelve stones corresponded to the names of the sons of Israel. Each stone was engraved like a seal with the name of one of the twelve tribes. 15For the breastpiece they made braided chains like cords of pure gold. 16They also made two gold filigree settings and two gold rings, and fastened the two rings to the two corners of the breastpiece. 17Then they fastened the two gold chains to the two gold rings at the corners of the breastpiece, 18and they fastened the other ends of the two chains to the two filigree settings, attaching them to the shoulder pieces of the ephod at the front. 19They made two more gold rings and attached them to the other two corners of the breastpiece, on the inside edge next to the ephod. 20They made two additional gold rings and attached them to the bottom of the two shoulder pieces of the ephod, on its front, near the seam just above its woven waistband. 21Then they tied the rings of the breastpiece to the rings of the ephod with a cord of blue yarn, so that the breastpiece was above the waistband of the ephod and would not swing out from the ephod, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. Additional Priestly Garments 22They made the robe of the ephod entirely of blue cloth, the work of a weaver, 23with an opening in the center of the robe like that of a garment,d with a collar around the opening so that it would not tear. 24They made pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and finely spun linen on the lower hem of the robe. 25They also made bells of pure gold and attached them around the hem between the pomegranates, 26alternating the bells and pomegranates around the lower hem of the robe to be worn for ministry, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 27For Aaron and his sons they made tunics of fine linen, the work of a weaver, 28as well as the turban of fine linen, the ornate headbands and undergarments of finely spun linen, 29and the sash of finely spun linen, embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 30They also made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and they engraved on it, like an inscription on a seal: HOLY TO THE LORD.e 31Then they fastened to it a blue cord to mount it on the turban, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. Moses Approves the Work 32So all the work for the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting, was completed. The Israelites did everything just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 33Then they brought the tabernacle to Moses: the tent with all its furnishings, its clasps, its frames, its crossbars, and its posts and bases; 34the covering of ram skins dyed red, the covering of fine leather,f and the veil of the covering; 35the ark of the Testimonyg with its poles and the mercy seat; 36the table with all its utensils and the Bread of the Presence; 37the pure gold lampstand with its row of lamps and all its utensils, as well as the oil for the light; 38the gold altar, the anointing oil, the fragrant incense, and the curtain for the entrance to the tent; 39the bronze altar with its bronze grating, its poles, and all its utensils; 40the curtains of the courtyard with its posts and bases; the curtain for the gate of the courtyard, its ropes and tent pegs, and all the equipment for the service of the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting; 41and the woven garments for ministering in the sanctuary, both the holy garments for Aaron the priest and the garments for his sons to serve as priests. 42The Israelites had done all the work just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 43And Moses inspected all the work and saw that they had accomplished it just as the LORD had commanded. So Moses blessed them. Footnotes: 2 a Literally He made 9 b The breastpiece, when folded over, was approximately 9 inches or 22.9 centimeters in both length and width. 10 c The precise identification of some of these gemstones is uncertain. 23 d The meaning of the Hebrew word is uncertain; possibly a coat of mail. 30 e That is, the LORD 34 f Possibly the hides of large aquatic mammals 35 g That is, the ark of the covenant Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 8:5This verse speaks of the earthly sanctuary as a shadow of the heavenly one, connecting the Tabernacle's detailed construction to the greater reality in Christ. 1 Peter 2:9 This passage describes believers as a royal priesthood, linking the priestly garments' symbolism to our identity in Christ. Colossians 3:23-24 These verses encourage us to work heartily as for the Lord, echoing the dedication seen in Exodus 39. Teaching Points Obedience to Divine InstructionsThe Israelites followed God's commands to the letter, as seen in the repeated phrase, as the LORD had commanded Moses (Exodus 39:1). This underscores the importance of adhering to God's Word in our lives. Symbolism of the Priestly Garments The garments, including the ephod, breastpiece, and robe, were rich in symbolism, representing purity, holiness, and the mediating role of the priest (Exodus 39:2-31). Craftsmanship and Skill The chapter highlights the use of skilled artisans, such as Bezalel and Oholiab, who were filled with the Spirit of God to accomplish the work (Exodus 39:42-43). This demonstrates the value God places on using our talents for His glory. Completion and Inspection Moses inspected the work and saw that it was done just as the LORD had commanded, and he blessed them (Exodus 39:43). This reflects the satisfaction and blessing that come from completing God's work faithfully. Practical Applications Strive for ExcellenceJust as the Israelites were diligent in their work, we should strive for excellence in all we do, recognizing that our efforts are ultimately for the Lord. Use Your Gifts Identify and use your God-given talents and skills to serve the church and community, just as the artisans did in constructing the Tabernacle. Obedience in Detail Pay attention to the details of God's instructions in your life, understanding that obedience in small things is crucial to spiritual growth. Seek God's Approval Aim to live in a way that, like Moses, you can look back on your work and see that it aligns with God's commands, seeking His blessing and approval. People 1. MosesMoses is the central figure in the Book of Exodus, serving as the leader of the Israelites and the mediator between God and His people. In Exodus 39, Moses is responsible for inspecting the completed work of the tabernacle and the priestly garments to ensure they are made according to God's commands. 2. Bezalel Bezalel is the chief artisan appointed by God to oversee the construction of the tabernacle and its furnishings. He is described as being filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship (Exodus 31:2-5). In Exodus 39, Bezalel is credited with making the priestly garments, including the ephod and the breastpiece. 3. Oholiab Oholiab is Bezalel's assistant, also chosen by God to help with the craftsmanship of the tabernacle. He is skilled in engraving, designing, and embroidering with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen (Exodus 31:6). In Exodus 39, Oholiab works alongside Bezalel in creating the sacred garments. Places 1. TabernacleWhile not explicitly mentioned in Exodus 39, the context of the chapter is the construction and preparation of items for the Tabernacle, which is the central place of worship for the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. The Hebrew term for Tabernacle is "מִשְׁכָּן" (mishkan), meaning "dwelling place." Since Exodus 39 does not list specific geographical locations, the focus remains on the items and garments crafted for use in the Tabernacle, which serves as the focal point of worship and divine presence among the Israelites. Events 1. Making the EphodThe chapter begins with the crafting of the ephod. "From the blue, purple, and scarlet yarn they made woven garments for ministering in the sanctuary. They also made the holy garments for Aaron, as the LORD had commanded Moses" (Exodus 39:1). The ephod was a significant garment worn by the high priest, made with skillful work, as indicated by the Hebrew word "ma'aseh" (מַעֲשֶׂה), meaning "work" or "craftsmanship." 2. Fashioning the Breastpiece The breastpiece was made with the same materials as the ephod. "They made the breastpiece, the work of a skilled craftsman, like the ephod, of gold, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen" (Exodus 39:8). The Hebrew term "choshen" (חֹשֶׁן) refers to this breastpiece, which was intricately designed to hold the Urim and Thummim. 3. Creating the Robe of the Ephod The robe was made entirely of blue cloth. "They made the robe of the ephod entirely of blue cloth, the work of a weaver" (Exodus 39:22). The Hebrew word "me'il" (מְעִיל) is used for the robe, emphasizing its seamless construction. 4. Crafting the Other Priestly Garments Additional garments were made for Aaron and his sons, including tunics, turbans, and sashes. "They made tunics of fine linen, the work of a weaver, for Aaron and his sons" (Exodus 39:27). The Hebrew "kethoneth" (כְּתֹנֶת) refers to the tunics, highlighting their role in the priestly attire. 5. Making the Plate of the Holy Crown A plate of pure gold was made and engraved with "Holy to the LORD." "They also made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and they engraved on it, like an inscription on a seal: HOLY TO THE LORD" (Exodus 39:30). The Hebrew "nezer" (נֵזֶר) signifies the crown, symbolizing consecration. 6. Completion of the Work The chapter concludes with the completion of all the work for the tabernacle. "So all the work for the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting, was completed. The Israelites did everything just as the LORD had commanded Moses" (Exodus 39:32). The Hebrew "kalah" (כָּלָה) means "completed," indicating the fulfillment of God's instructions. Lessons from Exodus 39 1. The Beauty of Obedience 2. The Power of Skilled Workmanship 3. The Significance of Sacred Garments 4. The Unity of the Community 5. The Symbolism of the Breastplate 6. The Holiness of the Lord 7. The Importance of Accountability 8. The Joy of Completion 9. The Role of Leadership 10. The Faithfulness of God Topics 1. Making the Priestly Garments (Exodus 39:1-7)The chapter begins with the crafting of the sacred garments for Aaron and his sons, as commanded by God. The garments include the ephod, which is made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen. The ephod's design is significant, as it symbolizes the priest's role in representing the people before God. The Hebrew word for ephod, "אֵפוֹד" (ephod), indicates a garment associated with priestly service. 2. The Breastpiece (Exodus 39:8-21) The breastpiece is crafted with the same materials as the ephod and is adorned with twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Each stone is engraved with the name of a tribe, signifying the high priest's role in bearing the names of the tribes before the Lord. The Hebrew term for breastpiece, "חֹשֶׁן" (choshen), reflects its function as a piece of judgment or decision-making. 3. Other Priestly Garments (Exodus 39:22-31) This section describes the making of additional garments, including the robe of the ephod, the tunics, the turban, and the sash. The robe is noted for its pomegranates and bells, which serve both decorative and functional purposes. The Hebrew word for robe, "מְעִיל" (me'il), suggests a garment of dignity and honor. 4. Completion of the Tabernacle Work (Exodus 39:32-43) The chapter concludes with the completion of all the work for the Tabernacle. The Israelites follow God's instructions precisely, and Moses inspects the work, finding it done according to the Lord's command. This obedience is crucial, as it reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people. The Hebrew word for Tabernacle, "מִשְׁכָּן" (mishkan), emphasizes the dwelling place of God among His people. Each of these topics highlights the meticulous care and obedience involved in preparing the sacred space and garments for worship, underscoring the importance of holiness and reverence in approaching God. Themes 1. Obedience to Divine InstructionsThe chapter emphasizes the meticulous adherence to God's commands regarding the construction of the priestly garments. The phrase "as the LORD had commanded Moses" is repeated multiple times (e.g., Exodus 39:1, 5, 7, 21, 26, 29, 31, 32, 42, 43), highlighting the importance of following divine instructions precisely. This obedience reflects the Hebrew concept of "shamar" (שָׁמַר), meaning to keep or guard, underscoring the careful observance of God's commands. 2. Holiness and Consecration The garments, including the ephod, breastpiece, and robe, symbolize the holiness required of the priests. Exodus 39:30 mentions the "sacred diadem" with the inscription "HOLY TO THE LORD," signifying the consecration of the priests to God's service. The Hebrew word "qodesh" (קֹדֶשׁ) for "holy" indicates a state of being set apart for divine purposes. 3. Artistry and Skill in Worship The chapter highlights the craftsmanship involved in making the garments, as seen in Exodus 39:3, where gold is hammered into thin sheets and cut into threads. This reflects the Hebrew word "chokmah" (חָכְמָה), meaning wisdom or skill, emphasizing that artistic talent is a gift from God to be used in worship. 4. Symbolism of the Twelve Tribes The breastpiece contains twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 39:14). This symbolizes the unity and collective identity of God's people, with each tribe having a unique place in the priestly ministry. The Hebrew term "shevet" (שֵׁבֶט) for tribe also conveys the idea of a branch or staff, indicating support and leadership. 5. Completion and Fulfillment The chapter concludes with the completion of the work, as stated in Exodus 39:32: "So all the work for the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting, was completed." This theme of fulfillment is tied to the Hebrew word "kalah" (כָּלָה), meaning to finish or complete, signifying the faithfulness of the Israelites in fulfilling God's commands. 6. Divine Approval and Blessing Moses inspects the work and blesses the people for their obedience and craftsmanship (Exodus 39:43). This blessing reflects the Hebrew concept of "barak" (בָּרַךְ), meaning to bless, indicating God's favor and approval of their faithful service. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Detailed Care Thank God for His attention to detail in our lives and His provision of guidance through His Word. Prayer for Obedience Prayer for Using Our Gifts Blessing on Our Work Answering Tough Questions 1. Exodus 39:8–21: How did they manage the sophisticated techniques required to craft and engrave the breastpiece with gemstone settings in a wilderness setting? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the detailed craftsmanship involved in the creation of the ephod and breastpiece reflect the Israelites' devotion to God? 2. What significance do the twelve stones on the ephod hold? What does this teach us about the importance of remembrance in faith? 3. Why do you think God wanted the breastpiece securely fastened to the ephod? What could this symbolize? 4. Consider the colors used in the holy garments - blue, purple, and scarlet. What could each of these colors symbolize in the context of faith and worship? 5. What does the engraving "HOLY TO THE LORD" on the holy crown signify? 6. What is the significance of Moses inspecting all the work on the Tabernacle? 7. How does the completion of the Tabernacle reflect the theme of obedience to God's command? 8. How does the construction of the Tabernacle and the priestly garments underscore the idea of sacred spaces and objects in our own lives? 9. What can we learn from the dedication and skill of Bezalel and his craftsmen? How can we apply this lesson to our own lives? 10. How might the careful and detailed work of crafting the Tabernacle and the garments inform our own approach to worship and service to God? 11. How do you think the Israelites felt once they completed the work on the Tabernacle and its garments? Why? 12. How does Moses' blessing after the completion of the work reflect his leadership and guidance? 13. How can we apply the concepts of dedication, craftsmanship, and obedience seen in this chapter to our own careers or daily tasks? 14. What is the relevance of creating physical objects like the Tabernacle and the priestly garments in worshiping God who is spirit? 15. How does the detailed description of the construction process inspire you in your faith journey? 16. In what ways does the reverence shown by the Israelites in creating the holy garments influence your perspective on the preparation for worship? 17. How does the completion of the Tabernacle echo God's faithfulness to His promises? 18. In what ways do our personal devotions or tasks in church services reflect the craftsmanship described in the construction of the Tabernacle? 19. How can we incorporate the lessons of dedication and meticulousness from this scripture into our approach to modern worship? 20. How does the final inspection and blessing by Moses illustrate the importance of spiritual leadership in faith communities? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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