Exodus 38:1 (KJV)

What does Exodus 38:1 mean?

Exodus 38:1 describes how the altar for burnt offerings was constructed out of shittim wood, measuring five cubits long and wide (making it square), and three cubits high. This verse gives the specific materials and dimensions for the altar used in Israel’s worship at the tabernacle.

In this part of Exodus, the narrative is describing the actual building of the tabernacle’s furnishings, following the instructions God gave earlier. The people of Israel, under the leadership of Moses and the skilled craftsman Bezalel, are making the altar that would be used for animal sacrifices, which was central to their worship practices at the time.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 38:1

• "altar" (מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbeach): This word refers specifically to a structure for sacrifices, highlighting its purpose as a place where offerings are made to God.
• "burnt offering" (עֹלָה, olah): This term means a sacrifice that is completely burned, emphasizing that the offering was wholly given to God.
• "shittim" (שִׁטִּים, shittim): This is a type of acacia wood, known for its durability and resistance to decay, which was important for something exposed to fire and the elements.
• "foursquare" (רָבוּעַ, rabu'a): This word means square or having equal sides, stressing the symmetry and balance of the altar’s design.

Why Exodus 38:1 matters

• Exodus 38:1 clears up that the altar was not made of stone or metal, but of shittim (acacia) wood, which was then overlaid with bronze according to earlier instructions, showing careful attention to both function and symbolism.
• The specific measurements and shape (“foursquare”) underline the orderliness and intentionality in Israel’s worship, reflecting the importance of following God’s instructions exactly.
• This verse connects to the wider passage by showing the Israelites’ obedience in building the tabernacle and its furnishings just as God commanded, which is a major theme in the closing chapters of Exodus.