And all the pins of the tabernacle, and of the court round about, were of brass.

EXODUS 38:20KJV
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Exodus 38:20 (KJV)

What does Exodus 38:20 mean?

Exodus 38:20 states that all the pins used for the tabernacle and the surrounding courtyard were made of brass. This verse highlights the specific material chosen for these small but essential parts of the tabernacle’s structure.

In the context of Exodus, Moses is overseeing the construction of the tabernacle according to God’s instructions. The verse is part of a detailed inventory describing how every component, even the pins (which held the curtains and structures in place), was carefully crafted. The mention of brass shows attention to durability and uniformity in the tabernacle’s design.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 38:20

  • The word for "pins" is יָתֵד (yated), often understood as pegs or stakes. These were practical items driven into the ground to secure the fabric walls and curtains, showing that even the smallest details were specified.
  • The word for "tabernacle" is מִשְׁכָּן (mishkan), meaning dwelling place. This term emphasizes that the structure was meant to be a special place where God’s presence would reside among the people.
  • The word for "court" is חָצֵר (chatser), referring to the open area surrounding the tabernacle itself. This area was enclosed by curtains and marked the boundary of the sacred space.
  • The word for "brass" is נְחֹשֶׁת (nechoshet), which can mean bronze or copper. This metal was valued for its strength and resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for items exposed to the elements.

Why Exodus 38:20 matters

  • Exodus 38:20 shows that even the smallest, least noticeable parts of the tabernacle were made with care and according to specific instructions, reflecting the thoroughness of the construction process.
  • The verse connects to the larger theme of Exodus 35–40, where every detail of the tabernacle’s construction is described, emphasizing obedience and attention to God’s commands.
  • By specifying that all the pins were made of brass, the verse highlights the importance of durability and consistency in the materials used for God’s dwelling place among the Israelites.

Where else these words appear

“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.

“brass” Hebrew H5178 · used in 119 verses

  • Genesis 4:22 And Zillah, she also bare Tubalcain, an instructer of every artificer in brass and iron: and the sister of Tubalcain was Naamah.
  • Deuteronomy 28:23 And thy heaven that is over thy head shall be brass, and the earth that is under thee shall be iron.
  • 1 Chronicles 29:2 Now I have prepared with all my might for the house of my God the gold for things to be made of gold, and the silver for things of silver, and the brass for things of brass, the iron for things of iron, and wood for things of wood; onyx stones, and stones to be set, glistering stones, and of divers colours, and all manner of precious stones, and marble stones in abundance.

“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?