Exodus 35:16 (KJV)

What does Exodus 35:16 mean?

Exodus 35:16 lists specific items that were to be made for the tabernacle: the altar for burnt offerings, its bronze grate, carrying poles, utensils, and the basin with its stand. This verse is part of a detailed inventory of the objects required for Israel’s worship, emphasizing the importance of each piece in the tabernacle’s function.

Moses is speaking to the Israelites, relaying God’s instructions about constructing the tabernacle and its furnishings. The verse highlights the practical preparations for worship in the wilderness, showing that every item—from the altar (for sacrifices) to the laver (for washing)—had a defined role in the community’s relationship with God.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 35:16

• The word for "altar" is מִזְבֵּחַ (mizbeach), which refers to the structure where offerings were made. Its mention underscores the centrality of sacrifice in Israelite worship.
• "Offering" uses עֹלָה (olah), meaning a burnt offering that is completely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication.
• "Brassen" comes from נְחֹשֶׁת (nechoshet), meaning bronze or copper. The use of bronze for the grate and other items points to durability and ritual purity.
• "Grate" is מִכְבָּר (mikhbar), a lattice or mesh, which was placed under the altar to catch ashes, showing attention to both function and cleanliness.
• "Staves" are בַּד (bad), meaning poles used for carrying the altar, indicating the tabernacle’s mobility.
• "Vessels" is כְּלִי (kli), referring to all the tools and utensils needed for the altar’s operation.
• "Laver" is כִּיּוֹר (kiyyor), a basin for washing, and "foot" is כֵּן (ken), its stand—both essential for ritual cleanliness.

Why Exodus 35:16 matters

• This verse clears up that every item in the tabernacle, even those that might seem minor, was specified by God and had a purpose, reflecting order and intentionality in worship.
• By listing these objects, Exodus 35:16 connects to the broader theme of obedience and careful attention to God’s instructions throughout the tabernacle narrative.
• The mention of both the altar and the laver highlights that both sacrifice (approach to God) and cleansing (purity before God) were necessary parts of Israel’s worship.