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Exodus 39

43 verses

TL;DR

Exodus 39 details the meticulous construction of Aaron’s holy garments and the accompanying furnishings of the Tabernacle, all carried out under divine instruction.

Summary

The chapter opens with the making of Aaron’s ephod and breastplate, using gold, blue, purple, scarlet cloth, and fine linen, and adorned with twelve engraved stones representing Israel’s tribes. The breastplate’s design includes four rows of precious stones, gold rings, chains, and a pomegranate‑bell hem, all fitting securely onto the ephod. Following this, the garments for Aaron and his sons—robes, mitres, bonnets, breeches, and a holy crown—are crafted, each with intricate ornamentation such as bells, pomegranates, and engraved inscriptions. The text then lists the complete array of Tabernacle furnishings: the tent, Ark of the Covenant, mercy seat, altar, lamps, and other vessels, all fashioned according to Moses’ instructions. The Israelites assemble and present the fully finished Tabernacle to Moses, who verifies the workmanship and blesses the artisans. This passage underscores the precision of divine directives and the holiness of the priestly attire.

Outline
  1. Construction of Aaron’s ephod, breastplate, and garments
  2. Description of the Tabernacle’s furnishings and their assembly
  3. Presentation of the completed Tabernacle to Moses and his blessing
Themes
Holiness and sanctityObedience to divine commandCovenant identity and remembrance
Keywords
holy garmentsEphodbreastplatecovenant stonesTabernacleMosesAaronIsraeldivine commandholiness
People
MosesAaronsons of Aaron
Places
TabernacleTent of the congregationIsrael
Things
EphodBreastplateGold, blue, purple, scarlet clothFine linenOnyx, sardius, topaz, carbuncle, emerald, sapphire, diamond, ligure, agate, amethyst, beryl, onyx, jasperRings, chains, bells, pomegranatesHoly crownArk of the CovenantAltarMercy seatLamps
Key Verses
  • Exodus 39:1: Introduces the beginning of Aaron’s garments and divine instruction.
  • Exodus 39:10: Details the precious stones representing Israel’s tribes.
  • Exodus 39:30: Describes the holy crown with the inscription "HOLINESS TO THE LORD".
  • Exodus 39:32: Notes the completion of all Tabernacle work.
  • Exodus 39:43: Shows Moses’ approval and blessing, affirming obedience.
Questions
  • What does the specific selection of stones for the breastplate reveal about Israel’s identity?
  • How does the repeated phrase "as the LORD commanded Moses" emphasize the relationship between divine instruction and human action?
  • In what ways do the ornate garments reinforce the sanctity of Aaron’s priestly office?
  • How might the meticulous craftsmanship reflect the Israelites’ devotion?
  • What symbolism might be inferred from the combination of bells, pomegranates, and gold in the priestly attire?
Sentiment

neutral
The passage is descriptive, focusing on compliance with divine orders rather than emotive content.