Exodus 30:4
New International Version
Make two gold rings for the altar below the molding—two on each of the opposite sides—to hold the poles used to carry it.

New Living Translation
Make two gold rings, and attach them on opposite sides of the altar below the gold molding to hold the carrying poles.

English Standard Version
And you shall make two golden rings for it. Under its molding on two opposite sides of it you shall make them, and they shall be holders for poles with which to carry it.

Berean Standard Bible
And make two gold rings below the molding on opposite sides to hold the poles used to carry it.

Berean Literal Bible
And you shall make two gold rings for it, under its molding, on two of its sides. You shall place them on both of its flanks, and they will be as holders for poles, to carry it with them.

King James Bible
And two golden rings shalt thou make to it under the crown of it, by the two corners thereof, upon the two sides of it shalt thou make it; and they shall be for places for the staves to bear it withal.

New King James Version
Two gold rings you shall make for it, under the molding on both its sides. You shall place them on its two sides, and they will be holders for the poles with which to bear it.

New American Standard Bible
You shall also make two gold rings for it under its molding; you shall make them on its two sides—on opposite sides—and they shall be holders for poles with which to carry it.

NASB 1995
“You shall make two gold rings for it under its molding; you shall make them on its two side walls— on opposite sides— and they shall be holders for poles with which to carry it.

NASB 1977
“And you shall make two gold rings for it under its molding; you shall make them on its two side walls—on opposite sides—and they shall be holders for poles with which to carry it.

Legacy Standard Bible
You shall make two gold rings for it under its molding; you shall make them on its two side walls—on opposite sides—and they shall be holders for poles with which to carry it.

Amplified Bible
You shall make two gold rings under its molding, make them on the two side walls—on opposite sides—they shall be holders for the poles with which to carry it.

Berean Annotated Bible
And make two gold rings below the molding on opposite sides to hold the poles used to carry it.

Christian Standard Bible
Make two gold rings for it under the molding on two of its sides; put these on opposite sides of it to be holders for the poles to carry it with.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Make two gold rings for it under the molding on two of its sides; put these on opposite sides of it to be holders for the poles to carry it with.

American Standard Version
And two golden rings shalt thou make for it under the crown thereof; upon the two ribs thereof, upon the two sides of it shalt thou make them; and they shall be for places for staves wherewith to bear it.

Contemporary English Version
Then below the edging on opposite sides attach two gold rings through which you can put the poles for carrying the altar.

English Revised Version
And two golden rings shalt thou make for it under the crown thereof, upon the two ribs thereof, upon the two sides of it shalt thou make them; and they shall be for places for staves to bear it withal.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Make two gold rings, and put them below the molding on opposite sides to hold the poles for carrying it.

Good News Translation
Make two gold carrying rings for it and attach them below the border on two sides to hold the poles with which it is to be carried.

International Standard Version
"You are to make two gold rings for it under its molding. You are to make them on its two opposite sides, and they are to be holders for poles by which to carry it.

NET Bible
You are to make two gold rings for it under its border, on its two flanks; you are to make them on its two sides. The rings will be places for poles to carry it with.

New Heart English Bible
You shall make two golden rings for it under its molding; on its two ribs, on its two sides you shall make them; and they shall be for places for poles with which to bear it.

Webster's Bible Translation
And two golden rings shalt thou make to it under the crown of it, by its two corners, upon the two sides of it shalt thou make it; and they shall be for places for the staffs to bear it with.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
And make two gold rings below the molding on opposite sides to hold the poles used to carry it.

World English Bible
You shall make two golden rings for it under its molding; on its two ribs, on its two sides you shall make them; and they shall be for places for poles with which to bear it.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and you make two rings of gold for it, under its crown on its two ribs; you make [them] on its two sides, and they have become places for poles to carry it with them.

Berean Literal Bible
And you shall make two gold rings for it, under its molding, on two of its sides. You shall place them on both of its flanks, and they will be as holders for poles, to carry it with them.

Young's Literal Translation
and two rings of gold thou dost make to it under its crown; on its two ribs thou dost make them, on its two sides, and they have become places for staves, to bear it with them.

Smith's Literal Translation
And two gold rings shalt thou make to it from under its crown, upon its two ribs, shalt thou make upon its two sides; and it was for inner parts for staves to lift it up by them.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And two golden rings under the crown on either side, that the bars may be put into them, and the altar be carried.

Catholic Public Domain Version
and two gold rings under the crown on each side, so that the bars may be set in them and the altar may be carried.

New American Bible
Underneath the molding you shall put gold rings, two on one side and two on the opposite side, as holders for the poles used in carrying it.

New Revised Standard Version
And you shall make two golden rings for it; under its molding on two opposite sides of it you shall make them, and they shall hold the poles with which to carry it.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And two golden rings you shall make for it under the crown of it, on the two corners thereof, upon the two sides of it shall you make it; and they shall be for places for the poles to carry it with them.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And you shall make two rings of gold for it under its crown, on the two corners you shall make on its two sides, and they will be the places for the poles to carry it by them.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
And two golden rings shalt thou make for it under the crown thereof, upon the two ribs thereof, upon the two sides of it shalt thou make them; and they shall be for places for staves wherewith to bear it.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And thou shalt make under its wreathen border two rings of pure gold; thou shalt make it to the two corners on the two sides, and they shall be bearings for the staves, so as to bear it with them.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Altar of Incense
3Overlay with pure gold the top and all the sides and horns, and make a molding of gold around it. 4And make two gold rings below the molding on opposite sides to hold the poles used to carry it. 5Make the poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold.…

Cross References
And make two gold rings

Exodus 37:27
He made two gold rings below the molding on opposite sides to hold the poles used to carry it.

Exodus 27:4
Construct for it a grate of bronze mesh, and make a bronze ring at each of the four corners of the mesh.
below the molding

Exodus 25:11
Overlay it with pure gold both inside and out, and make a gold molding around it.

Exodus 25:24
Overlay it with pure gold and make a gold molding around it.
on opposite sides

Exodus 25:12
Cast four gold rings for it and fasten them to its four feet, two rings on one side and two on the other.

Exodus 25:26
Make four gold rings for the table and fasten them to the four corners at its four legs.
to hold the poles

Exodus 25:13-15
And make poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold. / Insert the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark, in order to carry it. / The poles are to remain in the rings of the ark; they must not be removed.

Exodus 27:7
The poles are to be inserted into the rings so that the poles are on two sides of the altar when it is carried.
used to carry it.

Numbers 4:15
When Aaron and his sons have finished covering the holy objects and all their equipment, as soon as the camp is ready to move, the Kohathites shall come and do the carrying. But they must not touch the holy objects, or they will die. These are the transportation duties of the Kohathites regarding the Tent of Meeting.

1 Chronicles 15:2
Then David said, “No one but the Levites may carry the ark of God, because the LORD has chosen them to carry the ark of the LORD and to minister before Him forever.”
Numbers 4:11
Over the gold altar they are to spread a blue cloth, cover it with fine leather, and insert the poles.

1 Kings 7:49
the lampstands of pure gold in front of the inner sanctuary, five on the right side and five on the left; the gold flowers, lamps, and tongs;

2 Chronicles 4:19-22
Solomon also made all the furnishings for the house of God: the golden altar; the tables on which was placed the Bread of the Presence; / the lampstands of pure gold and their lamps, to burn in front of the inner sanctuary as prescribed; / the flowers, lamps, and tongs of gold—of purest gold; …

Hebrews 9:4
containing the golden altar of incense and the gold-covered ark of the covenant. Inside the ark were the gold jar of manna, Aaron’s staff that had budded, and the stone tablets of the covenant.

Revelation 8:3-4
Then another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, along with the prayers of all the saints, on the golden altar before the throne. / And the smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of the saints, rose up before God from the hand of the angel.

Exodus 40:5
Place the gold altar of incense in front of the ark of the Testimony, and hang the curtain at the entrance to the tabernacle.


Treasury of Scripture

And two golden rings shall you make to it under the crown of it, by the two corners thereof, on the two sides of it shall you make it; and they shall be for places for the staves to bear it with.

rings

Exodus 25:12,14,27
And thou shalt cast four rings of gold for it, and put them in the four corners thereof; and two rings shall be in the one side of it, and two rings in the other side of it…

Exodus 26:29
And thou shalt overlay the boards with gold, and make their rings of gold for places for the bars: and thou shalt overlay the bars with gold.

Exodus 27:4,7
And thou shalt make for it a grate of network of brass; and upon the net shalt thou make four brasen rings in the four corners thereof…

two corners.

Jump to Previous
Altar Bear Below Carry Corners Crown Gold Golden Hold Holders Lifting Molding Opposite Places Poles Ribs Rings Rods Side Sides Staffs Staves Thereof Wherewith Withal
Jump to Next
Altar Bear Below Carry Corners Crown Gold Golden Hold Holders Lifting Molding Opposite Places Poles Ribs Rings Rods Side Sides Staffs Staves Thereof Wherewith Withal
Exodus 30
1. The altar of incense
11. The ransom of souls
17. The bronze basin
22. The holy anointing oil
34. The composition of the incense












And make two gold rings
Gold in the Bible often symbolizes purity, divinity, and kingship. The use of gold for the rings signifies the sacredness and value of the altar. Gold was a common material in the construction of the Tabernacle, reflecting the glory and holiness of God. The rings were functional but also served as a reminder of the divine nature of the objects they adorned.

below the molding
The molding, or crown, was a decorative feature that added to the beauty and majesty of the altar. It also served a practical purpose, helping to secure the rings in place. The placement of the rings below the molding ensured stability and balance when the altar was carried. This detail highlights the importance of order and precision in the worship practices of Israel.

on opposite sides
The positioning of the rings on opposite sides ensured that the altar could be carried evenly and securely. This reflects the biblical principle of balance and symmetry, which is often seen in the design of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. It also symbolizes the unity and cooperation required among the Levites who were responsible for transporting the sacred objects.

to hold the poles
The poles were essential for the transportation of the altar, allowing it to be moved without being touched directly. This method of transport underscores the holiness of the altar and the need for reverence in handling sacred items. The use of poles is a recurring theme in the construction of the Tabernacle, as seen with the Ark of the Covenant and other furnishings.

used to carry it
The portability of the altar was crucial for the Israelites, who were a nomadic people during their journey through the wilderness. This reflects the transient nature of their existence and the need for a mobile place of worship. The ability to carry the altar also signifies the presence of God moving with His people, a precursor to the New Testament understanding of God dwelling within believers.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings from God on Mount Sinai.

2. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. Altar of Incense
A sacred object within the Tabernacle, where incense was burned as a symbol of prayer and worship ascending to God.

4. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were journeying to the Promised Land.

5. Wilderness
The setting for the Israelites' journey and the location where the Tabernacle was constructed and used.
Teaching Points
Reverence for the Holy
The detailed instructions for the construction and handling of the altar of incense remind us of the importance of approaching God with reverence and respect.

Mobility and Presence
The use of poles for carrying the altar signifies God's desire to be present with His people wherever they go, encouraging us to seek His presence in all aspects of our lives.

Symbolism of Prayer
The altar of incense represents the prayers of the saints rising to God, reminding us of the power and importance of prayer in our spiritual journey.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The precise details given for the Tabernacle's construction teach us the value of obedience to God's commands, even in seemingly small matters.

Community and Worship
The communal aspect of the Tabernacle's use highlights the importance of gathering together for worship and supporting one another in faith.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Exodus 30:4?

2. How does Exodus 30:4 emphasize the importance of following God's specific instructions?

3. What role do the "two gold rings" play in the tabernacle's design?

4. How can we apply the precision in Exodus 30:4 to our worship practices?

5. Why is obedience to God's detailed commands crucial for spiritual growth and faith?

6. How does Exodus 30:4 connect with other scriptures about God's attention to detail?

7. What is the significance of the rings in Exodus 30:4 for the altar's mobility?

8. How does Exodus 30:4 reflect the importance of detailed instructions in worship practices?

9. Why are specific materials and designs emphasized in Exodus 30:4?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Exodus 30?

11. What is the Ark of the Covenant?

12. In 1 Chronicles 15:2, where David insists only the Levites may carry the Ark, how do we reconcile this claim with any instances where non-Levites handled it or transported it in other texts?

13. Exodus 37:10-16: Where did they obtain enough high-quality timber and gold to construct a table so precisely, and is there archaeological evidence of such abundance?

14. Exodus 37:25-29: Is there any historical or extrabiblical record to confirm the special incense formula mentioned, or does it appear only in biblical tradition?
What Does Exodus 30:4 Mean
Make two gold rings

“Make two gold rings…” (Exodus 30:4)

• God instructs Moses to add rings to the Altar of Incense, just as He had done for the Ark (Exodus 25:12) and the Table of Showbread (Exodus 25:26).

• Gold points to divine purity and worth (Revelation 21:21). The use of precious metal underscores that worship must reflect God’s holiness (1 Peter 1:16).

• The rings are not decorative only; they are functional reminders that every detail of worship is ordered by God (Hebrews 8:5).


Below the molding

“…below the molding…” (Exodus 30:4)

• The molding is the decorative ridge described in Exodus 30:3. Placing the rings just beneath it keeps the poles secure without marring the altar’s upper edge.

• God’s precision teaches that obedience includes small details (Luke 16:10).

• Similar care appears with the Ark’s molding in Exodus 25:24, showing consistent design throughout the tabernacle.


On opposite sides

“…on opposite sides…” (Exodus 30:4)

• Rings set on both sides give balance, so the altar will not tip while being carried.

• Symmetry also mirrors God’s orderliness (1 Corinthians 14:40).

• The Ark’s rings were arranged “two on one side and two on the other” (Exodus 25:12), reinforcing the same principle.


To hold the poles

“…to hold the poles…” (Exodus 30:4)

• The poles, made of acacia wood overlaid with gold (Exodus 30:5), slide through the rings.

• They act as a barrier, keeping human hands from touching the holy object directly, a protection seen again with the Ark (Numbers 4:15).

• This separation highlights God’s holiness and the need for mediation—ultimately fulfilled in Christ (1 Timothy 2:5).


Used to carry it

“…used to carry it.” (Exodus 30:4)

• Israel was a pilgrim people; every sacred furnishing had to move when the cloud moved (Numbers 9:17–23).

• The Kohathites were assigned to lift the altar by these poles (Numbers 4:11), showing that service is both a privilege and a responsibility.

• Today, believers—now God’s living temple (1 Corinthians 3:16)—bear His presence wherever He leads.


summary

Exodus 30:4 records God’s exact instructions for adding two gold rings beneath the altar’s molding, one on each side, so poles could slide through for transport. Every clause underscores holiness, order, obedience, and mobility. The rings protected the altar from irreverent touch and enabled Israel to carry God-ordained worship through the wilderness—an enduring reminder that He travels with His people and deserves reverent, detailed obedience in every generation.

(4) Two golden rings.--The golden altar was so much smaller and lighter than the brazen one that two rings only were required for carrying it, instead of the "four rings" needed by the brazen altar (Exodus 27:4).

By the two corners thereof.--Rather, on the two sides thereof. The word used means, literally, "ribs," and is explained in the clause which follows.

Verse 4. - By the two corners. Rather, "on its two sides." The ensuing clause is redundant. All that is meant is, that the altar should have two rings only - not four - one at each side, directly below the moulding. As it was so small, two rings were enough. For the staves. Rather, "for staves."

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
And make
תַּֽעֲשֶׂה־ (ta·‘ă·śeh-)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 6213: To do, make

for it
לּ֣וֹ ׀ (lōw)
Preposition | third person masculine singular
Strong's Hebrew

two
וּשְׁתֵּי֩ (ū·šə·tê)
Conjunctive waw | Number - fdc
Strong's 8147: Two (a cardinal number)

gold
זָהָ֜ב (zā·hāḇ)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2091: Gold, something gold-colored, as oil, a clear sky

rings
טַבְּעֹ֨ת (ṭab·bə·‘ōṯ)
Noun - feminine plural construct
Strong's 2885: A seal, signet, a ring of any kind

below
מִתַּ֣חַת (mit·ta·ḥaṯ)
Preposition-m
Strong's 8478: The bottom, below, in lieu of

the molding
לְזֵר֗וֹ (lə·zê·rōw)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 2213: A chaplet, a border moulding

on
עַל־ (‘al-)
Preposition
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against

opposite sides
צִדָּ֑יו (ṣid·dāw)
Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 6654: A side, an adversary

to
וְהָיָה֙ (wə·hā·yāh)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1961: To fall out, come to pass, become, be

hold
לְבָתִּ֣ים (lə·ḇāt·tîm)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 1004: A house

the poles
לְבַדִּ֔ים (lə·ḇad·dîm)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 905: Separation, a part of the body, branch of a, tree, bar for, carrying, chief of

used to carry it.
לָשֵׂ֥את (lā·śêṯ)
Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 5375: To lift, carry, take


Links
Exodus 30:4 NIV
Exodus 30:4 NLT
Exodus 30:4 ESV
Exodus 30:4 NASB
Exodus 30:4 KJV

Exodus 30:4 BibleApps.com
Exodus 30:4 Biblia Paralela
Exodus 30:4 Chinese Bible
Exodus 30:4 French Bible
Exodus 30:4 Catholic Bible

OT Law: Exodus 30:4 You shall make two golden rings (Exo. Ex)
Exodus 30:3
Top of Page
Top of Page