Exodus 37:2

He overlaid it with pure gold, both inside and out, and made a gold molding around it.

Study Bible

He overlaid it with pure gold
The act of overlaying the Ark with pure gold signifies the divine nature and holiness of God. In Hebrew, the word for "pure" is "טָהוֹר" (tahor), which implies ceremonial cleanliness and moral purity. Gold, being a precious and incorruptible metal, symbolizes the eternal and unchanging nature of God. The use of gold in the construction of the Ark reflects the value and sacredness of the covenant between God and His people. Historically, gold was a symbol of wealth and divinity in ancient cultures, and its use here underscores the Ark's importance as the earthly throne of God.

both inside and out
This phrase emphasizes the thoroughness and completeness of the overlaying process. The Hebrew word for "inside" is "בַּיִת" (bayit), meaning house or dwelling, while "out" is "חוּץ" (chutz), meaning outside or exterior. The dual covering of the Ark with gold both inside and out signifies the comprehensive holiness required by God. It serves as a reminder that God desires purity not only in outward appearances but also within the heart. This duality can be seen as a call for believers to maintain integrity and holiness in both their private and public lives.

and made a gold molding around it
The gold molding, or "זֵר" (zer) in Hebrew, is a decorative border that adds to the beauty and majesty of the Ark. This molding represents the divine protection and order that God provides. In ancient craftsmanship, moldings were used to enhance the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of an object. Spiritually, the molding around the Ark can be seen as a symbol of God's encompassing grace and the boundaries He sets for His people. It serves as a reminder of the beauty and order found in a life aligned with God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
The skilled craftsman chosen by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the Ark of the Covenant. He was filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship (Exodus 31:1-5).

2. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's covenant with Israel. It was central to Israel's worship and symbolized God's presence among His people.

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God during their journey through the wilderness. It was a place of meeting between God and His people.

4. Gold
A precious metal used extensively in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, symbolizing purity, value, and the divine nature of God.

5. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and journeyed through the wilderness to the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Gold
Gold's use in the Ark signifies the purity and holiness required in approaching God. As believers, we are called to pursue holiness in our lives, reflecting God's nature.

God's Presence
The Ark, overlaid with gold, was a tangible representation of God's presence. Today, through Christ, we have direct access to God's presence, and our lives should reflect His glory.

Craftsmanship and Excellence
Bezalel's work on the Ark reminds us of the importance of using our God-given talents with excellence for His glory. Whatever we do, we should do it as unto the Lord.

Covenant Relationship
The Ark housed the tablets of the covenant, reminding us of the importance of living in obedience to God's Word and maintaining a covenant relationship with Him.

Spiritual Significance
The physical beauty and value of the Ark point to the spiritual beauty and worth of a life dedicated to God. We are called to be vessels of honor, set apart for His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of gold in the construction of the Ark of the Covenant reflect the nature of God, and how can we apply this understanding to our personal walk with Him?

2. In what ways does the Ark of the Covenant serve as a foreshadowing of Christ's role in the New Covenant, and how does this deepen our appreciation for His sacrifice?

3. Considering Bezalel's craftsmanship, how can we identify and use our own talents and skills to serve God and His kingdom effectively?

4. What does the presence of the Ark among the Israelites teach us about the importance of God's presence in our daily lives, and how can we cultivate an awareness of His presence?

5. How can the concept of a covenant relationship with God, as symbolized by the Ark, influence our commitment to living according to His Word and commands?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:10-11
Provides the initial instructions for the construction of the Ark, emphasizing the use of gold, which signifies the divine nature and holiness of God.

Hebrews 9:4
Mentions the Ark of the Covenant in the context of the earthly sanctuary, highlighting its significance in the Old Covenant and its contents, including the tablets of the covenant.

Revelation 21:18
Describes the New Jerusalem, where gold is used to symbolize the glory and purity of God's eternal kingdom, drawing a parallel to the use of gold in the Tabernacle.