King James Version

What Does Exodus 25:15 Mean?

Exodus 25:15 in the King James Version says “The staves shall be in the rings of the ark: they shall not be taken from it.” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 25 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The staves shall be in the rings of the ark: they shall not be taken from it.”

Exodus 25:15 · KJV

Context

13

And thou shalt make staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with gold.

14

And thou shalt put the staves into the rings by the sides of the ark, that the ark may be borne with them.

15

The staves shall be in the rings of the ark: they shall not be taken from it.

16

And thou shalt put into the ark the testimony which I shall give thee.

17

And thou shalt make a mercy seat of pure gold: two cubits and a half shall be the length thereof, and a cubit and a half the breadth thereof.

Read Exodus 25 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The staves must remain in the rings—never removed (compare 1 Kings 8:8). This permanence signifies that God's provision for holy approach is constant and unchanging. Just as the staves were always ready for the Ark to move, Christ's mediation is perpetually available. We never lack access to God through our High Priest who 'ever lives to make intercession' (Hebrews 7:25).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The prohibition against removing the staves protected both the Ark and those who would transport it. When Uzzah later touched the Ark (2 Samuel 6:6-7), the result was deadly, demonstrating the continuing necessity of God's prescribed approach.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the permanence of the staves encourage you about constant access to God through Christ?
  2. What happens when people attempt to approach God without His prescribed mediator?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
בְּטַבְּעֹת֙1 of 7

“in the rings”

H2885

properly, a seal (as sunk into the wax), i.e., signet (for sealing); hence (generally) a ring of any kind

הָֽאָרֹ֔ן2 of 7

“of the ark”

H727

a box

יִֽהְי֖וּ3 of 7

“shall be”

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

הַבַּדִּ֑ים4 of 7

“The staves”

H905

properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit

לֹ֥א5 of 7
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יָסֻ֖רוּ6 of 7

“they shall not be taken”

H5493

to turn off (literally or figuratively)

מִמֶּֽנּוּ׃7 of 7
H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 25:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Exodus 25:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Kings 8:82 Chronicles 5:9

Test Your Knowledge

Exodus 25 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterExodus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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