Exodus 35:17 (KJV)

What does Exodus 35:17 mean?

Exodus 35:17 lists specific parts of the tabernacle’s outer courtyard: the fabric hangings, the supporting pillars, the bases (sockets) for those pillars, and the curtain that served as the entrance to the courtyard. This verse is part of a detailed inventory of the materials and items needed for constructing the tabernacle’s enclosure.

In this passage, Moses is speaking to the Israelites, relaying God’s instructions for building the tabernacle, which was a portable sanctuary for worship during their journey in the wilderness. The verse highlights the importance of each structural element, showing that every part, even those that might seem less significant, had a defined purpose in the overall design.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 35:17

• The word for "hangings" is קְלָעִים (qela‘im), which refers to the woven curtains forming the walls of the courtyard. This term emphasizes that the courtyard was enclosed not by solid walls, but by fabric panels.
• "Court" is חָצֵר (ḥatser), meaning an enclosed space or yard. Here, it refers specifically to the outer area surrounding the tabernacle itself.
• "Pillars" is עַמּוּדִים (‘ammudim), meaning upright supports. These were the vertical posts that held up the hangings, showing the practical construction of the enclosure.
• "Sockets" is אֲדָנִים (‘adanim), meaning bases or foundation blocks. These provided stability for the pillars, indicating attention to both function and durability.
• The "hanging for the door" uses מָסָךְ (masakh), meaning a screen or curtain. This was the special entrance curtain, marking the only way into the courtyard and setting it apart from the rest of the enclosure.
• "Door" is שַׁעַר (sha‘ar), meaning gate or entrance, underlining that the courtyard had a designated entry point.

Why Exodus 35:17 matters

• This verse shows that every part of the tabernacle, even the outer structures, was carefully planned and described, reflecting the attention to detail in Israel’s worship practices.
• By listing these items, the passage emphasizes that the tabernacle was a communal project, with every component—large or small—contributing to the whole.
• Understanding these details helps readers see the tabernacle as a real, physical place, not just a symbolic or spiritual idea, grounding the story in concrete historical practices.