Exodus 37:4
Exodus 37:4 in Multiple Translations
Then he made poles of acacia wood and overlaid them with gold.
And he made staves of shittim wood, and overlaid them with gold.
And he made staves of acacia wood, and overlaid them with gold.
And rods of the same wood plated with gold.
He made poles of acacia wood and covered them with gold.
Also he made barres of Shittim wood, and couered them with golde,
and he maketh staves of shittim wood, and overlayeth them with gold,
He made poles of acacia wood and overlaid them with gold.
And he made staffs of shittim wood, and overlaid them with gold.
And he made bars of setim wood, which he overlaid with gold,
He made two poles from acacia wood, and covered them with gold.
Berean Amplified Bible — Exodus 37:4
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Exodus 37:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יַּ֥עַשׂ
בַּדֵּ֖י
עֲצֵ֣י
שִׁטִּ֑ים
וַ/יְצַ֥ף
אֹתָ֖/ם
זָהָֽב
וַ/יַּ֥עַשׂ
ʻâsâh
H6213
to make
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
בַּדֵּ֖י
bad
H905
alone
N-mp
עֲצֵ֣י
ʻêts
H6086
tree
N-mp
שִׁטִּ֑ים
shiṭṭâh
H7848
acacia
N-fp
וַ/יְצַ֥ף
tsâphâh
H6823
to overlay
Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֹתָ֖/ם
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM | Suff
זָהָֽב
zâhâb
H2091
gold
N-ms
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Exodus 37:4
וַ/יַּ֥עַשׂ
ʻâsâh
H6213
"to make"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.
Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made
Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.
בַּדֵּ֖י
bad
H905
"alone"
N-mp
The Hebrew word 'bad' can mean alone, apart, or a separate part of something, like a branch or a bar. It's used to describe something that's only or except for something else.
Definition: : pole 1) alone, by itself, besides, a part, separation, being alone 1a) separation, alone, by itself 1a1) only (adv) 1a2) apart from, besides (prep) 1b) part 1c) parts (eg limbs, shoots), bars
Usage: Occurs in 179 OT verses. KJV: alone, apart, bar, besides, branch, by self, of each alike, except, only, part, staff, strength. See also: Genesis 2:18; Judges 20:15; Psalms 51:6.
עֲצֵ֣י
ʻêts
H6086
"tree"
N-mp
This Hebrew word for tree or wood refers to a strong and firm object, like a tree or a wooden plank, as seen in the carpentry work of Jesus' earthly father Joseph in Matthew 13:55.
Definition: : wood 1) tree, wood, timber, stock, plank, stalk, stick, gallows 1a) tree, trees 1b) wood, pieces of wood, gallows, firewood, cedar-wood, woody flax
Usage: Occurs in 289 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carpenter, gallows, helve, [phrase] pine, plank, staff, stalk, stick, stock, timber, tree, wood. See also: Genesis 1:11; Joshua 9:23; Psalms 1:3.
שִׁטִּ֑ים
shiṭṭâh
H7848
"acacia"
N-fp
The acacia tree, known for its thorns, is described by this word, which is also used to describe the wood used to build the Tabernacle in Exodus.
Definition: acacia tree, acacia wood
Usage: Occurs in 28 OT verses. KJV: shittah, shittim. See also H1029 (בֵּית הַשִּׁטָּה). See also: Exodus 25:5; Exodus 35:24; Isaiah 41:19.
וַ/יְצַ֥ף
tsâphâh
H6823
"to overlay"
Conj | V-Piel-ConsecImperf-3ms
Tsaphah can also mean to overlay or cover something, often with metal. It involves laying something over another material, like plating or coating.
Definition: 1) to lay out, lay over, overlay, cover 1a) (Piel) to overlay, plate, stud 1b) (Pual) to be laid over
Usage: Occurs in 40 OT verses. KJV: cover, overlay. See also: Exodus 25:11; Exodus 38:2; Proverbs 26:23.
אֹתָ֖/ם
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM | Suff
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
זָהָֽב
zâhâb
H2091
"gold"
N-ms
Gold is a valuable metal, also used to describe something yellow or brilliant, like oil or a clear sky. It is often mentioned in the Bible as a precious resource.
Definition: 1) gold 1a) as precious metal 1b) as a measure of weight 1c) of brilliance, splendour (fig.) Aramaic equivalent: de.hav (דְּהַב "gold" H1722)
Usage: Occurs in 336 OT verses. KJV: gold(-en), fair weather. See also: Genesis 2:11; Numbers 7:26; 1 Chronicles 28:17.
Study Notes — Exodus 37:4
Show Verse Quote Highlights
Context — Constructing the Ark
2He overlaid it with pure gold, both inside and out, and made a gold molding around it.
3And he cast four gold rings for its four feet, two rings on one side and two on the other.
4Then he made poles of acacia wood and overlaid them with gold.
5He inserted the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark in order to carry it. 6He constructed a mercy seat of pure gold, two and a half cubits long and a cubit and a half wide.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Acts 9:15 | “Go!” said the Lord. “This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings, and before the people of Israel. |
| 2 | 1 Peter 1:7 | so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. |
| 3 | Numbers 4:14–15 | and place on it all the vessels used to serve there: the firepans, meat forks, shovels, and sprinkling bowls—all the equipment of the altar. They are to spread over it a covering of fine leather and insert the poles. 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. |
| 4 | 1 Peter 1:18–19 | For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life you inherited from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or spot. |
Exodus 37:4 Summary
This verse, Exodus 37:4, tells us about the poles that were made to carry the ark, which was a special box that held the Ten Commandments and represented God's presence among the Israelites. The poles were made of strong acacia wood and covered in gold, showing how important and valuable they were (similar to the gold used in Exodus 37:2). Just like the Israelites were careful with the ark and its poles, we should be careful and respectful in our worship and service to God, remembering His commands in Exodus 20:4-5. By using the best materials, like gold and acacia wood, the Israelites showed their love and reverence for God, and we can learn from their example to honor God in our own lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of using acacia wood in the construction of the poles?
The use of acacia wood in Exodus 37:4 signifies durability and strength, as seen in other Bible passages such as Exodus 25:10, where it is used for the construction of the ark itself. This choice of material underscores the importance of the poles in supporting the ark.
Why were the poles overlaid with gold?
The overlay of gold on the poles, as described in Exodus 37:4, symbolizes the value and sacredness of the ark and its contents, much like the gold used to overlay the ark itself in Exodus 37:2. This gold overlay also represents the divine presence and glory of God.
What is the purpose of the poles in relation to the ark?
The poles, made according to Exodus 37:4, were used to carry the ark, as mentioned in Exodus 37:5, emphasizing the need for the Israelites to handle the ark with care and reverence, as commanded in Numbers 4:5-6 and Deuteronomy 10:8.
How does this verse relate to the broader theme of worship and reverence in the Bible?
Exodus 37:4 contributes to the theme of worship and reverence by highlighting the meticulous attention to detail in the construction of the tabernacle and its furnishings, echoing the commands in Exodus 20:4-5 and Leviticus 10:3 to worship God with purity and holiness.
Reflection Questions
- What does the detail in constructing the poles reveal about God's character and expectations for worship?
- In what ways can we apply the principle of using durable and valuable materials in our own service to God?
- How does the image of the golden poles support the idea of God's presence being among His people, as seen in Exodus 25:8?
- What role do symbols of value and beauty, like the gold overlay, play in our expression of reverence and worship today?
Gill's Exposition on Exodus 37:4
[See comments on Exodus 37:1].
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Exodus 37:4
And he overlaid it with pure gold within and without, and made a crown of gold to it round about. No JFB commentary on these verses.
Ellicott's Commentary on Exodus 37:4
XXXVII.(1-24) This passage corresponds with Exodus 37:10-29 of Exodus 25, and contains an account of the construction of the holy furniture: (1) That of the Holy of Holies: viz., the ark (Exodus 37:1-5), the mercyseat (Exodus 37:6-9); (2) that of the Holy Place, viz., the table of shewbread (Exodus 37:10-16) and the golden candlestick (Exodus 37:17-24). Exodus 37:1-5 correspond to Exodus 25:10-14 of Exodus 25 Exodus 37:6-9 correspond to Exodus 25:17-20 of Exodus 25 Exodus 37:10-16 correspond to Exodus 25:23-29 of Exodus 25 Exodus 37:17-24 correspond to Exodus 25:31-39 of Exodus 25
Cambridge Bible on Exodus 37:4
1–9. (Exodus 25:10-20). The Ark. Exodus 25:15 f., 21 f. not repeated.
Whedon's Commentary on Exodus 37:4
THE ARK OF THE , Exodus 39:1-9. See notes on Exodus 25:10-22. THE TABLE OF , Exodus 39:10-16. See notes on Exodus 25:23-30. THE GOLDEN , Exodus 39:17-24. See notes on Exodus 25:31-40. THE ALTAR OF INCENSE, Exodus 39:25-28.
Sermons on Exodus 37:4
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(Europe 2008) Session 1 - a Man Sent From God by B.H. Clendennen | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for a revival in London and the world. He mentions that before the Wesleyan revival, there were no gospel churches in London, but wh |
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The Fire of God by Art Katz | In this sermon transcript, the speaker describes a series of university meetings where he preached the gospel. Despite facing opposition and being seen as a traitor by some, the sp |
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K-144 Magna Carta of Apostolic Faith by Art Katz | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing the cosmic drama between darkness and light that the church is involved in. He highlights that in the last day |
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In the Potters Hands by Steve Hill | This sermon emphasizes how God works uniquely in each of our lives according to His purpose, even when we struggle with the trials and challenges He allows. It highlights the analo |
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How to Organize an Underground Church - Part 1 by Richard Wurmbrand | In this sermon, Pastor Richard Woodenbrunt shares his experiences of persecution and suffering as a Christian in Romania under communist rule. He describes the sadistic torture met |
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Questions About Seminary, Ministry and the Holy Spirit (Heartcry 2005 Conference Q&a) by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of renewing one's mind through the Word of God, prayer, and godly fellowship. He suggests that by doing so, one can experience |
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A Spiritual Call by Jim Binney | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a spiritual cause in life. He starts by sharing a story about a fireman who risked his life to save a baby, only to |