The pins of the tabernacle, and the pins of the court, and their cords,

EXODUS 35:18KJV
Know the Bible

Exodus 35:18 (KJV)

What does Exodus 35:18 mean?

Exodus 35:18 lists specific items needed for the construction of the tabernacle: the pins for the tabernacle itself, the pins for the surrounding courtyard, and the cords used with them. This verse highlights the importance of even the smallest parts in building the sacred tent and its enclosure.

Moses is speaking to the Israelites, relaying God’s instructions for gathering materials to build the tabernacle, which was the portable sanctuary used during their journey in the wilderness. By mentioning the pins and cords, the verse shows that every detail, down to the fastenings and supports, was necessary for the tabernacle’s structure and function.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 35:18

  • Pins (יָתֵד, yathed): This word refers to stakes or pegs used to secure the tabernacle and its courtyard. These were essential for stability, showing that even simple tools had a role in the sacred space.
  • Tabernacle (מִשְׁכָּן, mishkan): This term means "dwelling place" and refers to the portable sanctuary where God’s presence was believed to dwell among the Israelites.
  • Court (חָצֵר, chatser): This word describes the open area surrounding the tabernacle, enclosed by curtains and supported by the pins and cords.
  • Cords (מֵיתָר, methar): These were ropes or cords used to tie down the tent and courtyard, ensuring everything stayed in place.

Why Exodus 35:18 matters

  • This verse reminds readers that every part of the tabernacle, even the smallest pins and cords, was considered important and worthy of mention in God’s instructions.
  • By including these details, the passage emphasizes thoroughness and care in following God’s directions, not just for the main structure but for all supporting elements.
  • The verse connects to the larger theme in Exodus 35 of community involvement, as everyone was invited to contribute materials, skills, and effort, no matter how humble the item.

Where else these words appear

“cords” Hebrew H4340 · used in 9 verses

  • Exodus 39:40 The hangings of the court, his pillars, and his sockets, and the hanging for the court gate, his cords, and his pins, and all the vessels of the service of the tabernacle, for the tent of the congregation,
  • Numbers 3:37 And the pillars of the court round about, and their sockets, and their pins, and their cords.
  • Psalms 21:12 Therefore shalt thou make them turn their back, when thou shalt make ready thine arrows upon thy strings against the face of them.

“pins” Hebrew H3489 · used in 19 verses

  • Exodus 27:19 All the vessels of the tabernacle in all the service thereof, and all the pins thereof, and all the pins of the court, shall be of brass.
  • Deuteronomy 23:13 And thou shalt have a paddle upon thy weapon; and it shall be, when thou wilt ease thyself abroad, thou shalt dig therewith, and shalt turn back and cover that which cometh from thee:
  • Isaiah 22:23 And I will fasten him as a nail in a sure place; and he shall be for a glorious throne to his father's house.

“tabernacle” Hebrew H4908 · used in 129 verses

  • Exodus 25:9 According to all that I shew thee, after the pattern of the tabernacle, and the pattern of all the instruments thereof, even so shall ye make it.
  • Exodus 40:18 And Moses reared up the tabernacle, and fastened his sockets, and set up the boards thereof, and put in the bars thereof, and reared up his pillars.
  • Numbers 16:9 Seemeth it but a small thing unto you, that the God of Israel hath separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to himself to do the service of the tabernacle of the LORD, and to stand before the congregation to minister unto them?