Exodus 25:1 - Printer Friendly

ESV: The Lord said to Moses,

NIV: The Lord said to Moses,

NASB: Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying,

CSB: The Lord spoke to Moses:

NLT: The Lord said to Moses,

KJV: And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying,

NKJV: Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying:

Many passages in Scripture overtly mention that they record God's words (Genesis 1:3; 17:9; Exodus 3:14). A common phrase is used to begin passages in Exodus (Exodus 6:1; 7:1; 8:1; 9:1; 10:1). In this verse, the phrasing is subtly changed, using a slightly different word for speaking (Exodus 13:1). The one speaking is identified as YHWH, or Yahweh, using the name spoken to Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:15).

What follows are detailed instructions about crafting objects of worship. Among these are the ark of the covenant, a special table, and a sacred lampstand. Raw materials would have come, in part, from Israel's recent experiences with Egyptians (Exodus 11:2–3; 12:33–36) and Amalekites (Exodus 17:8, 13).

Exodus 25:1–9 establishes a collection for materials to make sacred objects. The Israelites are to offer precious gems, metals, cloth, building materials, and oils. Much of this probably came from Egyptians who begged their former slaves to leave (Exodus 3:21–22; 11:2–3; 12:33–36). Some may be spoils from the defeat of the Amalekites (Exodus 17:8, 13). The resources will be used to make a sanctuary for worship and sacrifice. This will be a "tabernacle:" a large tent. The design of each component is detailed and must be followed exactly.

Israelites are to contribute precious metals, cloth, oils, and other resources to create a sanctuary for worship and sacrifice. These will be used to form various sacred objects. Among these are the renowned ark of the covenant, a table for consecrated bread, and a lampstand with seven ornate lamps. These will be kept in the most sacred parts of the sanctuary. Upcoming chapters will focus on an elaborate tent which will serve as a portable temple (Exodus 26—28).

The Lord has given the foundations of His covenant to Israel (Exodus 20—23) and they have affirmed it (Exodus 24). Now God gives Moses detailed instructions for a system of worship. This begins with designs for a sacred container—the ark of the covenant—as well as a table and lampstand. These will be kept in the "tabernacle:" an ornate tent used as a portable temple for Israel (Exodus 26—28).

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.

Accessed 7/1/2025 10:07:31 PM