Exodus 31:9 (KJV)

What does Exodus 31:9 mean?

Exodus 31:9 lists two important items for Israel’s worship: the altar for burnt offerings, along with all its equipment, and the laver (a large basin) with its stand. This verse is part of a detailed inventory of the sacred objects that were to be made for the tabernacle, emphasizing their completeness and importance.

In Exodus 31, God is speaking to Moses on Mount Sinai, giving instructions for building the tabernacle and its furnishings. This verse specifically highlights the altar used for burnt offerings and the laver, both central to the priests’ rituals. The mention of “all his furniture” shows that every tool and accessory connected to these objects was considered necessary for proper worship.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 31:9

• “altar” (מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbeach): This word refers to the structure where sacrifices were offered. Its mention here points to the central role of sacrifice in Israel’s relationship with God.
• “offering” (עֹלָה, olah): This word means a burnt offering, a specific type of sacrifice that was completely burned on the altar, symbolizing dedication to God.
• “furniture” (כְּלִי, keli): This term covers all the utensils and tools used with the altar, reminding readers that worship involved many practical details.
• “laver” (כִּיּוֹר, kiyyor): This was a basin for washing, used by priests before performing their duties, highlighting the importance of ritual cleanliness.
• “foot” (כֵּן, ken): This word means the stand or base of the laver, showing that even the supporting parts of sacred objects were specified by God.

Why Exodus 31:9 matters

• Exodus 31:9 shows that every part of worship, down to the tools and stands, was given careful attention, reflecting the seriousness of approaching God.
• By listing both the altar and the laver, the verse connects sacrifices (atonement) and cleansing (purity), two key themes in Israel’s worship.
• This verse helps readers see the continuity in God’s instructions, as each item mentioned ties back to earlier, detailed descriptions in Exodus, showing the thoroughness of God’s design for worship.