Exodus 25:14 - Printer Friendly

ESV: And you shall put the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark to carry the ark by them.

NIV: Insert the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark to carry it.

NASB: You shall put the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark, to carry the ark with them.

CSB: Insert the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark in order to carry the ark with them.

NLT: Insert the poles into the rings at the sides of the Ark to carry it.

KJV: And thou shalt put the staves into the rings by the sides of the ark, that the ark may be borne with them.

NKJV: You shall put the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark, that the ark may be carried by them.

Many instructions about the sanctuary (Exodus 25:8–9) are precise. This is a recurring theme of Scripture. When God gives exact instructions, He expects exact obedience. Deviating from those details is disobedience, despite good intentions (1 Samuel 15:22–23). In this case, the poles (Exodus 25:13) described here are the only approved way to transport the ark (Exodus 25:10). Scripture clarifies this later (Numbers 4:15). The poles are not to be removed (Exodus 25:15). Failure to follow these instructions causes an infamous incident during the time of King David (1 Chronicles 13:1–14; 15:13–15).

The rings which hold these poles are attached to the ark's feet (Exodus 25:12). This would lift the ark higher when it was carried. Putting the poles on men's shoulders would raise it well above head level.

Exodus 25:10–22 records the design of the ark of the covenant. This is a wooden box with square ends and rectangular sides overlaid with gold. Rings will be used to hold poles for carrying the ark. This box will store the written laws given by God to Israel (Exodus 24:12). The ark's lid features two golden angels facing each other with outstretched, covering wings. This "mercy seat" will be the focal point of God's interactions with Israel. Since the angels are not being worshipped, they are not the prohibited "graven images" of the second commandment (Exodus 20:4–6). Scripture never credits the ark as a source of supernatural power.

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 6/16/2025 12:29:27 PM