And he made the staves of shittim wood, and overlaid them with brass.
EXODUS 38:6KJVWhat does Exodus 38:6 mean?
Exodus 38:6 describes how the craftsman made poles out of shittim wood and covered them with brass. These poles were part of the materials used for the construction of the tabernacle, specifically for carrying the altar.
In this verse, the focus is on the practical details of building the tabernacle as instructed by God to Moses. The person making these items is Bezalel, a skilled craftsman chosen for this work. Shittim wood (from the acacia tree) was valued for its durability, and covering the poles with brass (a type of bronze) made them strong and suitable for moving the altar without direct contact.
The Hebrew behind Exodus 38:6
- שִׁטִּים (shittim): This word refers to acacia wood, a hard and long-lasting wood native to the region. Its use highlights the importance of durability and quality in the tabernacle's construction.
- נְחֹשֶׁת (nechoshet): Often translated as "brass" or "bronze," this metal was used to overlay the poles, providing extra strength and a polished appearance. The choice of metal over wood alone shows attention to both function and appearance.
Why Exodus 38:6 matters
- This verse shows the care and precision involved in following God's instructions for the tabernacle, emphasizing that even small details were important.
- The use of shittim wood and brass connects this verse to other parts of Exodus where these materials are repeatedly chosen for sacred objects, underlining their special status.
- Understanding these construction details helps readers appreciate the craftsmanship and reverence involved in Israel’s worship practices.