◄ Exodus 38 ►
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The Bronze Altar (Exodus 27:1–8) 1Bezalel constructeda the altar of burnt offering from acacia wood. It was square, five cubits long, five cubits wide, and three cubits high.b 2He made a horn at each of its four corners, so that the horns and altar were of one piece, and he overlaid the altar with bronze. 3He made all the altar’s utensils of bronze—its pots, shovels, sprinkling bowls, meat forks, and firepans. 4He made a grate of bronze mesh for the altar under its ledge, halfway up from the bottom. 5At the four corners of the bronze grate he cast four rings as holders for the poles. 6And he made the poles of acacia wood and overlaid them with bronze. 7Then he inserted the poles into the rings on the sides of the altar for carrying it. He made the altar with boards so that it was hollow. The Bronze Basin (Exodus 30:17–21) 8Next he made the bronze basin and its stand from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. The Courtyard (Exodus 27:9–19) 9Then he constructed the courtyard. The south side of the courtyard was a hundred cubits longc and had curtains of finely spun linen, 10with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases, and with silver hooks and bands on the posts. 11The north side was also a hundred cubits long, with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases. The hooks and bands of the posts were silver. 12The west side was fifty cubits longd and had curtains, with ten posts and ten bases. The hooks and bands of the posts were silver. 13And the east side, toward the sunrise, was also fifty cubits long. 14The curtains on one side of the entrance were fifteen cubits long,e with three posts and three bases. 15And the curtains on the other side were also fifteen cubits long, with three posts and three bases as well. 16All the curtains around the courtyard were made of finely spun linen. 17The bases for the posts were bronze, the hooks and bands were silver, and the plating for the tops of the posts was silver. So all the posts of the courtyard were banded with silver. 18The curtain for the entrance to the courtyard was embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen. It was twenty cubits longf and, like the curtains of the courtyard, five cubits high,g 19with four posts and four bronze bases. Their hooks were silver, as well as the bands and the plating of their tops. 20All the tent pegs for the tabernacle and for the surrounding courtyard were bronze. An Inventory of Materials (Ezra 2:68–70; Nehemiah 7:70–73) 21This is the inventory for the tabernacle, the tabernacle of the Testimony, as recorded at Moses’ command by the Levites under the direction of Ithamar son of Aaron the priest. 22Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, made everything that the LORD had commanded Moses. 23With him was Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, designer, and embroiderer in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen. 24All the gold from the wave offering used for the work on the sanctuary totaled 29 talents and 730 shekels,h according to the sanctuary shekel. 25The silver from those numbered among the congregation totaled 100 talents and 1,775 shekels,i according to the sanctuary shekel— 26a beka per person, that is, half a shekel,j according to the sanctuary shekel, from everyone twenty years of age or older who had crossed over to be numbered, a total of 603,550 men. 27The hundred talents of silverk were used to cast the bases of the sanctuary and the bases of the veil—100 bases from the 100 talents, one talent per base. 28With the 1,775 shekels of silverl he made the hooks for the posts, overlaid their tops, and supplied bands for them. 29The bronze from the wave offering totaled 70 talents and 2,400 shekels.m 30He used it to make the bases for the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, the bronze altar and its bronze grating, all the utensils for the altar, 31the bases for the surrounding courtyard and its gate, and all the tent pegs for the tabernacle and its surrounding courtyard. Footnotes: 1 a Literally He constructed 1 b The altar was approximately 7.5 feet in length and width, and 4.5 feet high (2.3 meters in length and width, and 1.4 meters high). 9 c 100 cubits is approximately 150 feet or 45.7 meters. 12 d 50 cubits is approximately 75 feet or 22.9 meters. 14 e 15 cubits is approximately 22.5 feet or 6.9 meters. 18 f 20 cubits is approximately 30 feet or 9.1 meters. 18 g 5 cubits is approximately 7.5 feet or 2.3 meters. 24 h The total weight of the gold was approximately 1.1 tons or 1 metric ton. 25 i The total weight of the silver was approximately 3.79 tons or 3.44 metric tons. 26 j A beka is half a shekel, or approximately 0.2 ounces or 5.7 grams. 27 k 100 talents is approximately 3.77 tons or 3.42 metric tons of silver. 28 l 1,775 shekels is approximately 44.6 pounds or 20.2 kilograms of silver. 29 m The total weight of the bronze was approximately 2.67 tons or 2.42 metric tons. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Exodus 38 Summary An Inventory of Materials Verses 1–7 – The Altar of Burnt Offering Bezalel fashions a square altar of acacia wood overlaid with bronze. Four horns rise from its corners, and bronze rings hold poles for carrying. All the utensils—pots, shovels, basins, forks, and firepans—are hammered out of the same durable metal, ready for daily sacrifice. Verse 8 – The Bronze Basin Using the polished bronze mirrors volunteered by the women serving at the Tent entrance, a basin and stand are cast. Positioned between the tent and the altar, it will supply water so priests can wash hands and feet before ministry. Verses 9–20 – The Courtyard A rectangular courtyard encircles the sanctuary: linen hangings, bronze bases, and silver caps dress sixty pillars. The east side features a colorful entrance curtain held by four posts, giving Israel its formal approach to God while keeping the holy space distinct. Verses 21–31 – The Materials Accounted Ithamar, assisted by Bezalel and Oholiab, records everything. The inventory lists 29 talents + 730 shekels of gold, 100 talents + 1,775 shekels of silver, and 70 talents + 2,400 shekels of bronze—proof of faithful stewardship and generous hearts. This chapter illustrates Bezalel's remarkable skill and devotion in crafting sacred structures for worship. He constructs the altar of burnt offering, the bronze basin, and the courtyard, followed by a detailed inventory of the tabernacle and an account of the congregation's generous offerings. Historical Setting • Israel is encamped at Sinai roughly one year after leaving Egypt. • Egyptian craftsmen commonly used acacia and bronze; God redeems these skills for His purposes. • A public ledger (vv. 21–31) matches Near-Eastern royal building reports, showing the community’s work is as organized as any kingdom’s. The Altar of Burnt Offering Bronze symbolizes strength and judgment (Deuteronomy 33:25). The horns offered refuge (1 Kings 1:50) and a place to apply sacrificial blood (Leviticus 4:7). Psalm 118:27 commands, “Bind the festival sacrifice… to the horns of the altar,” echoing the scene here. In the New Testament, Hebrews 13:10 reminds believers, “We have an altar” fulfilled in Christ. The square design pictures completeness; nothing in life lies outside the need for atonement. The Bronze Basin Exodus 30:18 required a washbasin “for washing.” Its mirror origins turn a tool of self-inspection into a means of cleansing—an object lesson in repentance. Jesus performs a similar act in John 13, washing feet before service. Ephesians 5:26 speaks of being cleansed “by the washing of water with the word,” linking daily sanctification to this ancient laver. Women Who Served The “women who served at the entrance” (Exodus 38:8; cf. 1 Samuel 2:22) represent early female ministry. Their personal mirrors—symbols of appearance—become instruments of worship, showing that devotion surpasses vanity. Luke 8:3 notes later women who “provided for [Jesus] out of their resources,” continuing the pattern. The Courtyard of the Tabernacle The linen wall (about seven-and-a-half feet high) let light through yet blocked casual view—access without irreverence. Psalm 84:10 longs to be “at the threshold of the house of my God,” an echo of this fence. Revelation 21 replaces temporary curtains with walls of precious stone, showing the goal toward which the tabernacle points. Materials and Stewardship The half-shekel census offering (Exodus 30:11-16) funds the silver bases—every male Israelite literally supports God’s house. 2 Kings 12:15 praises workers who handled temple money “faithfully,” a principle modeled first by Ithamar’s record. 1 Corinthians 4:2 underscores: “Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” Christ-Centered Connections • Altar: foreshadows the cross where the final sacrifice was offered (1 Peter 1:19). • Basin: points to the cleansing Jesus provides (1 John 1:9). • Courtyard gate: Jesus says, “I am the gate” (John 10:9). • Detailed inventory: mirrors the Gospel accounts carefully testifying to what God has done. Archaeological Insights • Excavations at Timna (southern Israel) reveal a Midianite tent-sanctuary with bronze fittings, confirming nomadic shrines of the era. • Sinai’s acacia trees (Vachellia tortilis) are small yet dense, matching the durability described. • Late-Bronze-Age mirrors found in Egypt are of polished copper/bronze, consistent with verse 8. Practical Applications for Today • Worship involves sacrifice, cleansing, and ordered space—heart, mind, and habits all matter. • Generosity fuels God’s work; transparency builds trust. • Roles for both men and women enrich ministry. • Remember the sequence: atonement first (altar), cleansing next (basin), then service (courtyard). Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 9:11-14 This passage connects the Old Testament sacrificial system to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who entered the greater and more perfect tabernacle. 1 Peter 2:5 Believers are described as living stones being built into a spiritual house, highlighting our role in God's ongoing work. 2 Corinthians 9:7 Encourages cheerful giving, reflecting the spirit of generosity seen in the contributions for the Tabernacle. Teaching Points The Altar of Burnt Offering Exodus 38:1-7 describes the construction of the altar, made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze. This altar was central to the sacrificial system, symbolizing atonement and reconciliation with God. The Bronze Basin In verses 8, the bronze basin is crafted from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. This basin was used for ceremonial washing, emphasizing the importance of purity and preparation before approaching God. The Courtyard Verses 9-20 detail the construction of the courtyard, including its dimensions and materials. The courtyard served as a boundary, setting apart the sacred space and reminding the Israelites of the holiness of God. The Inventory of Materials Verses 21-31 provide an account of the materials used in the construction of the Tabernacle, underscoring the generosity and willingness of the people to contribute to God's work. Practical Applications Commitment to Worship Just as the Israelites dedicated their resources and skills to build the Tabernacle, we are called to commit our time, talents, and treasures to the service of God. Pursuit of Holiness The emphasis on purity and preparation in the Tabernacle's construction reminds us of the importance of living a life set apart for God, striving for holiness in our daily actions. Generosity in Giving The willingness of the Israelites to give freely for the construction of the Tabernacle challenges us to be generous in supporting our local church and community. People 1. Bezalel Bezalel is mentioned in Exodus 38:22. He is the chief artisan responsible for the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. Bezalel is from the tribe of Judah and is described as being filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship. The Hebrew root for his name, בְּצַלְאֵל (Betsal'el), means "in the shadow of God," indicating divine protection and inspiration. 2. Oholiab Oholiab is mentioned alongside Bezalel in Exodus 38:23. He is from the tribe of Dan and serves as Bezalel's assistant. Oholiab is skilled in engraving, designing, and embroidering with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen. His name, אָהֳלִיאָב (Oholi'av), can be translated as "father's tent," which may symbolize his role in the creation of the sacred space of the Tabernacle. Places 1. The Tabernacle The central place described in Exodus 38 is the Tabernacle, which is the portable sanctuary constructed by the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. The chapter details the making of the altar of burnt offering, the bronze basin, and the courtyard, all of which are part of the Tabernacle complex. The Hebrew term for Tabernacle is "מִשְׁכָּן" (mishkan), meaning "dwelling place," signifying its role as the dwelling place of God among His people. While Exodus 38 does not mention other specific geographical locations, the Tabernacle itself is a significant and central place in the narrative of the Israelites' journey and worship practices. Events 1. Construction of the Altar of Burnt Offering (Exodus 38:1-7) Bezalel made the altar of burnt offering from acacia wood. It was square, five cubits long and five cubits wide, and three cubits high. The altar had horns on its four corners, which were of one piece with it, and it was overlaid with bronze. Bezalel also made all the utensils of the altar—pots, shovels, basins, meat forks, and firepans—from bronze. A bronze grating, a network under the ledge of the altar, was cast and placed beneath the altar, halfway up from the base. Poles of acacia wood overlaid with bronze were made to carry the altar. 2. Making the Bronze Basin (Exodus 38:8) Bezalel made the bronze basin and its stand from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. The Hebrew word for "mirrors" (מַרְאוֹת, mar'ot) indicates polished metal surfaces used for reflection. 3. Construction of the Courtyard (Exodus 38:9-20) The courtyard was constructed with hangings of fine twisted linen, 100 cubits long on the south and north sides, with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases, and silver hooks and bands. The west side was 50 cubits long with ten posts and bases. The east side was also 50 cubits, with hangings on either side of the entrance. The entrance curtain was made of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and finely spun linen, embroidered with needlework. The courtyard's posts were banded with silver, and their hooks were silver, while the bases were bronze. 4. Inventory of Materials (Exodus 38:21-31) Moses recorded the inventory of materials used for the Tabernacle, as commanded by the LORD. Ithamar, son of Aaron the priest, was responsible for the accounts. The total amount of gold used was 29 talents and 730 shekels, according to the sanctuary shekel. The silver collected from the community was 100 talents and 1,775 shekels, used for casting the bases of the sanctuary and the bases of the curtain. The bronze from the wave offering was 70 talents and 2,400 shekels, used for the altar, its utensils, and the bases of the courtyard. Lessons from Exodus 38 1. The Importance of Obedience In Exodus 38, we see the Israelites meticulously following God's instructions for building the Tabernacle. This teaches us the value of obedience to God's commands. As it is written, "So Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person to whom the LORD has given skill and understanding to know how to perform all the work of constructing the sanctuary, shall do the work just as the LORD has commanded" (Exodus 36:1). Obedience is not just about following rules; it's about aligning our lives with God's perfect plan. 2. The Beauty of Generosity The construction of the Tabernacle was made possible by the generous contributions of the Israelites. They gave freely and abundantly, demonstrating that generosity is a reflection of a heart aligned with God. "The people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning" (Exodus 36:3). This reminds us that our resources are best used when they serve God's purposes. 3. The Power of Community Exodus 38 highlights the collective effort of the Israelites in building the Tabernacle. This underscores the power of community and working together for a common goal. "All the skilled craftsmen among the workers made the Tabernacle with ten curtains of finely twisted linen" (Exodus 36:8). When we unite in purpose, we can achieve great things for God's kingdom. 4. The Significance of Details The detailed descriptions of the Tabernacle's construction remind us that God cares about the details. Every measurement and material had a purpose. "He made the basin of bronze and its stand of bronze from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting" (Exodus 38:8). This teaches us that even the smallest aspects of our lives matter to God. 5. The Role of Skilled Workmanship God appointed skilled craftsmen like Bezalel and Oholiab to lead the construction. This highlights the importance of using our God-given talents for His glory. "Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, made everything the LORD commanded Moses" (Exodus 38:22). Whatever your skill, use it to honor God and serve others. 6. The Symbolism of Sacrifice The altar of burnt offering, described in Exodus 38, symbolizes the importance of sacrifice in our relationship with God. "He made the altar of burnt offering of acacia wood" (Exodus 38:1). This points us to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, reminding us of the cost of our salvation and the call to live sacrificially. 7. The Value of Accountability The detailed accounting of materials used in the Tabernacle's construction shows the importance of accountability. "The total amount of the gold from the wave offering used for all the work on the sanctuary was 29 talents and 730 shekels" (Exodus 38:24). Being accountable in our stewardship reflects integrity and trustworthiness. 8. The Holiness of God's Dwelling The Tabernacle was a holy place where God's presence dwelled among His people. This reminds us of the holiness required in our own lives as we become temples of the Holy Spirit. "And they made the courtyard" (Exodus 38:9). We are called to live lives that reflect God's holiness and purity. 9. The Joy of Completion The completion of the Tabernacle was a moment of joy and fulfillment for the Israelites. It teaches us the joy that comes from completing the tasks God sets before us. "So all the work on the Tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting, was completed" (Exodus 39:32). Finishing well brings glory to God and satisfaction to our souls. 10. The Faithfulness of God Throughout Exodus 38, we see God's faithfulness in guiding and providing for the Israelites. This reassures us that God is faithful to His promises and will see us through every task He assigns. "The Israelites did all the work just as the LORD had commanded Moses" (Exodus 39:42). Trust in His faithfulness as you walk in His ways. Topics 1. Construction of the Altar of Burnt Offering (Exodus 38:1-7) This section describes the making of the altar of burnt offering, which was made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze. The altar was square, with horns on its corners, and included utensils such as pots, shovels, basins, forks, and firepans, all made of bronze. The Hebrew term for altar, "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), signifies a place of sacrifice, central to the worship practices of the Israelites. 2. Making the Bronze Basin (Exodus 38:8) The bronze basin, used for ceremonial washing, was crafted from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. This highlights the role of women in contributing to the sacred space. The Hebrew word for basin, "כִּיּוֹר" (kiyor), indicates a vessel for washing, emphasizing purification. 3. Construction of the Courtyard (Exodus 38:9-20) This passage details the construction of the courtyard surrounding the Tabernacle, including its dimensions, materials, and the making of the curtains and pillars. The courtyard served as a boundary for the sacred area, with the Hebrew term "חָצֵר" (chatser) denoting an enclosed space, signifying separation from the profane. 4. Inventory of Materials (Exodus 38:21-31) The chapter concludes with an inventory of the materials used for the Tabernacle, overseen by Ithamar, son of Aaron. This includes the amounts of gold, silver, and bronze contributed by the Israelites. The Hebrew word for inventory, "פְּקוּדִים" (pekudim), implies a detailed accounting, reflecting the importance of stewardship and transparency in the use of resources for God's work. Themes 1. Construction of the Altar of Burnt Offering Exodus 38 begins with the detailed construction of the altar of burnt offering. This theme highlights the importance of sacrifice in the worship practices of the Israelites. The altar, made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, signifies the need for atonement and the centrality of sacrificial offerings in maintaining a covenant relationship with God. The Hebrew word for altar, "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), underscores its role as a place of sacrifice. 2. Making of the Bronze Basin The chapter describes the making of the bronze basin and its stand, which were used for ceremonial washing. This theme emphasizes the necessity of purification and cleanliness before approaching God. The basin, made from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, symbolizes the transformation from vanity to sanctity. 3. Construction of the Courtyard The construction of the courtyard is detailed, including its dimensions and materials. This theme reflects the ordered and structured approach to worship, as well as the separation between the sacred and the profane. The courtyard served as a boundary, delineating the holy space where God's presence dwelled. 4. Materials Used in the Tabernacle The chapter provides an account of the materials used in the construction of the Tabernacle, including gold, silver, and bronze. This theme highlights the generosity and willingness of the Israelites to contribute to the work of God. The Hebrew term "תְּרוּמָה" (terumah), meaning offering or contribution, underscores the communal effort in creating a dwelling place for God. 5. Role of Bezalel and Oholiab The skilled craftsmanship of Bezalel and Oholiab is acknowledged in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. This theme underscores the importance of God-given talents and skills in fulfilling divine purposes. Their work exemplifies obedience and dedication to God's instructions, as they were filled with the Spirit of God to carry out the work. 6. Obedience to Divine Instructions Throughout Exodus 38, there is a recurring emphasis on following the precise instructions given by God for the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. This theme highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's commands. The meticulous adherence to God's blueprint reflects the Israelites' commitment to honoring His presence among them. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Provision Thank God for His provision and the resources He has entrusted to us, asking for wisdom in using them for His glory. Desire for Holiness Pray for a deeper desire to pursue holiness and purity in our lives, seeking to honor God in all we do. Willingness to Serve Ask God to cultivate a heart of service and generosity, willing to contribute to His work in our communities and beyond. As we reflect on Exodus 38, may we be inspired by the dedication and devotion of the Israelites, seeking to honor God with our lives and resources. Answering Tough Questions 1. How could the Israelites realistically acquire and transport the vast amounts of gold, silver, and bronze mentioned in Exodus 38:24–31 while wandering in the desert? 2. Why do we find no clear archaeological evidence for such a massive sacred structure, as described throughout Exodus 38? 3. If Moses received precise instructions for the Tabernacle in Exodus 38:1–7, why aren’t there consistent records in other ancient sources acknowledging this event? 4. Exodus 38:8 describes the use of women’s mirrors in creating the bronze basin; how does this detail align with known technological practices of that era? 5. How do the measurements and quantities listed in Exodus 38:21–23 harmonize with other parts of Exodus and Numbers that detail Israel’s population and resources? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What is the significance of Bezalel's role in constructing the sacred structures? 2. How does the construction of the altar of burnt offering symbolize the purpose of worship? 3. What is the significance of the bronze basin and its origin from the mirrors of the serving women? 4. Why are the details of the courtyard, its posts, bases, and curtains, important to the overall narrative? 5. How do the blue, purple, and scarlet yarns used in the entrance curtain reflect the holiness of the space within? 6. What does the inventory of the tabernacle signify about the value of every element used in worship? 7. How do the contributions of the congregation emphasize the role of community in worship? 8. What can we learn from the detailed descriptions of the construction process? How can we apply these lessons to our own spiritual lives? 9. What is the significance of the sanctuary being constructed by the community's offerings? 10. In what ways does this chapter symbolize the relationship between God and His people? 11. How does the concept of crafting sacred spaces translate into our contemporary worship contexts? 12. What can we learn from the unity and cooperation among Bezalel, Oholiab, and the rest of the community? 13. How do the different items used in the sanctuary represent aspects of our relationship with God? 14. How do the actions of Bezalel and Oholiab serve as an example of using one's skills for God's glory? 15. In what ways can we relate the communal participation in building the tabernacle to the modern-day church community? 16. How might the concept of the burnt offering altar resonate with today's concept of sacrifice? 17. How can the transparency in the accounting of the contributions inspire integrity in our present-day dealings within our worship communities? 18. How can we understand the transformation of the women's mirrors into a basin in a symbolic sense? 19. What role does artistic beauty and aesthetic value play in our worship spaces and practices today? 20. How can we use our own skills and resources to contribute to our communities and honor God today? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions