And of the hundred talents of silver were cast the sockets of the sanctuary, and the sockets of the vail; an hundred sockets of the hundred talents, a talent for a socket.

EXODUS 38:27KJV
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Exodus 38:27 (KJV)

What does Exodus 38:27 mean?

Exodus 38:27 explains that one hundred talents of silver were used to make the bases (or sockets) for the sanctuary and the veil, with each base made from one talent of silver. This verse details how the silver collected from the people was specifically allocated for the construction of these foundational parts of the tabernacle.

In context, Exodus 38 is describing how the materials given by the Israelites were used to build the tabernacle, the portable sanctuary where they would worship God during their journey through the wilderness. The verse is part of a careful accounting by the craftsmen, showing that every piece of silver was used purposefully, with a precise amount—one talent per socket—used for the bases that supported the sanctuary’s structure and the veil separating the holy spaces.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 38:27

  • סֶ֫כֶל (socket, transliteration: 'eden): This word refers to the base or foundation piece that held up the boards of the tabernacle and the veil. Understanding that each socket was a separate, heavy silver base helps visualize the weight and permanence given to the sanctuary’s structure.
  • כֶּ֫סֶף (silver, transliteration: kesef): The use of silver, rather than a cheaper material, highlights the value and sacredness of the sanctuary’s foundation.
  • כִּכָּר (talent, transliteration: kikkar): A talent was a large unit of weight, often estimated at about 75 pounds (34 kilograms). Knowing this helps the reader grasp the substantial amount of silver used for each socket.
  • מֵאָה (hundred, transliteration: me’ah): The repeated mention of “hundred” shows the exactness and orderliness in the tabernacle’s construction, emphasizing careful stewardship.

Why Exodus 38:27 matters

  • Exodus 38:27 clears up how the resources given by the people were used with precision and transparency, showing accountability in the building of the sanctuary.
  • The verse emphasizes the importance of every part of the tabernacle, even the hidden foundations, as worthy of valuable material and careful attention.
  • This detail connects to the larger theme in Exodus of obedience and faithfulness in following God’s instructions for worship, down to the smallest measurements and materials.