What does Exodus 31:2 mean?
ESV: "See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah,
NIV: "See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah,
NASB: See, I have called by name Bezalel, the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah.
CSB: "Look, I have appointed by name Bezalel son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah.
NLT: Look, I have specifically chosen Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah.
KJV: See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah:
NKJV: “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah.
Verse Commentary:
Please see our chapter commentary on Exodus 31; verse-level content coming soon!

Verse Context:
Exodus 31:1–11 assigns two lead craftsmen to make sacred objects for Israel's sanctuary (Exodus 25:8–9). Chapters 25 through 30 were mostly designs for these objects. Bezalel seems to be the most proficient; he is also specifically filled with God's Spirit. Oholiab is appointed by God to work with Bezalel. Other skilled artisans will assist these two in making the tabernacle and its accessories.
Chapter Summary:
God assigns Bezalel and Oholiab as master craftsmen to build the tabernacle and its accessories. They will work with other skilled laborers to make each item precisely as the Lord has commanded (Exodus 25—29). God completes His initial declaration of the covenant with a reminder about the Sabbath. Insulting the Sabbath command is punishable by death. As promised (Exodus 24:12), Moses is given two stone tablets recording the covenant.
Chapter Context:
For several chapters (Exodus 25—29), God has explained how Israel is to prepare His sanctuary (Exodus 25:8–9). Objects like the ark (Exodus 25:10), menorah (Exodus 25:31), and altars (Exodus 27:1; 30:1) will require great skill to make. The men charged with this task are not only highly skilled but specifically appointed and equipped by God. Moses brings two tablets from Sinai; these record the covenant. When he returns to the camp, Moses finds Israel deep in idolatry (Exodus 32:1). In a rage, he will smash these original tablets (Exodus 32:19).
Book Summary:
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.
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