Exodus 31:5 (KJV)

What does Exodus 31:5 mean?

Exodus 31:5 describes someone who has skill in cutting stones, setting them in place, and carving wood, able to do all kinds of skilled work. This verse highlights the practical craftsmanship needed for building and decorating, especially in the context of constructing the tabernacle.

In this passage, God is speaking to Moses about Bezalel, a craftsman chosen to help build the tabernacle. The verse lists the specific abilities Bezalel has: working with stone and wood, and performing all sorts of craftsmanship. The focus is on the value of practical, artistic skills as part of serving a larger purpose.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 31:5

• The word for "cutting" (חָרַשׁ, ḥārash) often means to engrave or carve, emphasizing skilled, detailed work rather than just rough shaping.
• "Stones" (אֶבֶן, ’even) points to precious or decorative stones, not just building blocks, suggesting work with valuable materials.
• "Set" (מָלֵא, male) means to fill or complete, so "to set them" carries the idea of fitting stones perfectly into place, not just placing them loosely.
• "Carving" (again, חָרַשׁ, ḥārash) is repeated for wood, showing that the same kind of careful, artistic skill is needed for both stone and timber.
• "Timber" (עֵץ, ‘ets) refers to wood in general, used for both structure and decoration.

Why Exodus 31:5 matters

• This verse clarifies that the work on the tabernacle required not just religious devotion but also real, practical skill and artistry.
• It shows that God values and recognizes different types of gifts, including craftsmanship, as important for sacred purposes.
• By listing these skills, the verse connects the building of the tabernacle to the broader biblical theme of people using their unique abilities in service to something greater.