And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee;

EXODUS 31:6KJV
Know the Bible

Exodus 31:6 (KJV)

What does Exodus 31:6 mean?

Exodus 31:6 says that God has chosen Aholiab, from the tribe of Dan, to work alongside Bezalel, and has given wisdom to all skilled workers so they can make everything God commanded Moses. This verse highlights that God not only appoints leaders but also gives ability and understanding to many people for the work He wants done.

God is speaking to Moses, explaining how the building of the tabernacle and its furnishings will be accomplished. God names Aholiab as a key helper and says He has placed "wisdom" in the hearts of all the "wise-hearted," meaning those with skill and understanding for craftsmanship. The verse shows that the work is a group effort, with God providing both leadership and practical skill to many people.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 31:6

  • "wise" (חָכָם, ḥākām) and "wisdom" (חָכְמָה, ḥokmāh): These words refer to practical skill and expertise, not just intellectual knowledge. In this context, they point to the God-given ability to do skilled work, especially in crafts and artistry.
  • "hearts" (לֵב, lēv): In Hebrew thought, the "heart" is the center of thought, intention, and skill, not just emotion. Saying wisdom is put in their hearts means the craftsmen are given deep understanding and ability from within.
  • "make" (עָשָׂה, ʿāsāh): This word covers all kinds of making or doing, emphasizing that the work is hands-on and practical, not just theoretical.

Why Exodus 31:6 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the building of the tabernacle was not just the work of one or two leaders, but involved many people whom God specially equipped with skill.
  • It shows that God values and provides for practical abilities, not just spiritual or religious leadership.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by explaining how God's instructions to Moses would actually be carried out, highlighting the importance of teamwork and shared gifts in accomplishing a larger purpose.

Where else these words appear

“Ahisamach” Hebrew H294 · used in 3 verses

  • Exodus 35:34 And he hath put in his heart that he may teach, both he, and Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan.
  • Exodus 38:23 And with him was Aholiab, son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, and a cunning workman, and an embroiderer in blue, and in purple, and in scarlet, and fine linen.

“Aholiab” Hebrew H171 · used in 5 verses

  • Exodus 35:34 And he hath put in his heart that he may teach, both he, and Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan.
  • Exodus 36:1 Then wrought Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wise hearted man, in whom the LORD put wisdom and understanding to know how to work all manner of work for the service of the sanctuary, according to all that the LORD had commanded.
  • Exodus 36:2 And Moses called Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wise hearted man, in whose heart the LORD had put wisdom, even every one whose heart stirred him up to come unto the work to do it:

“Dan” Hebrew H1835 · used in 64 verses

  • Genesis 14:14 And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them unto Dan.
  • Deuteronomy 33:22 And of Dan he said, Dan is a lion's whelp: he shall leap from Bashan.
  • 2 Samuel 17:11 Therefore I counsel that all Israel be generally gathered unto thee, from Dan even to Beersheba, as the sand that is by the sea for multitude; and that thou go to battle in thine own person.

“wise” Hebrew H2450 · used in 133 verses

  • Genesis 41:8 And it came to pass in the morning that his spirit was troubled; and he sent and called for all the magicians of Egypt, and all the wise men thereof: and Pharaoh told them his dream; but there was none that could interpret them unto Pharaoh.
  • Proverbs 3:35 The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools.
  • Ecclesiastes 2:16 For there is no remembrance of the wise more than of the fool for ever; seeing that which now is in the days to come shall all be forgotten. And how dieth the wise man? as the fool.