King James Version

What Does Exodus 26:30 Mean?

Exodus 26:30 in the King James Version says “And thou shalt rear up the tabernacle according to the fashion thereof which was shewed thee in the mount. — study this verse from Exodus chapter 26 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And thou shalt rear up the tabernacle according to the fashion thereof which was shewed thee in the mount.

Exodus 26:30 · KJV


Context

28

And the middle bar in the midst of the boards shall reach from end to end.

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.

30

And thou shalt rear up the tabernacle according to the fashion thereof which was shewed thee in the mount.

31

And thou shalt make a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet , and fine twined linen of cunning work: with cherubims shall it be made:

32

And thou shalt hang it upon four pillars of shittim wood overlaid with gold: their hooks shall be of gold, upon the four sockets of silver.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Summary command: 'rear up the tabernacle according to the fashion thereof which was shewed thee in the mount.' The Hebrew תָּקִים (taqim, 'rear up') means to establish, set upright, bring to standing. Construction must match the heavenly pattern exactly. This echoes the chapter's beginning and Hebrews' emphasis—earthly worship copies heavenly reality (Hebrews 8:5). We don't invent worship patterns; we replicate what God reveals, ultimately fulfilled in Christ.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Moses received comprehensive instructions during forty days on Sinai (Exodus 24:18), possibly including visual revelation of the heavenly sanctuary. This verse ensures he understands that precise replication, not creative interpretation, is required.

Reflection Questions

  1. Why must worship 'match the pattern' shown rather than reflect human creativity?
  2. How does understanding Christ as the 'heavenly pattern' affect your approach to worship?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וַהֲקֵֽמֹתָ֖1 of 7

And thou shalt rear up

H6965

to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

אֶת2 of 7
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַמִּשְׁכָּ֑ן3 of 7

the tabernacle

H4908

a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w

כְּמִ֨שְׁפָּט֔וֹ4 of 7

according to the fashion

H4941

properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

אֲשֶׁ֥ר5 of 7
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

הָרְאֵ֖יתָ6 of 7

thereof which was shewed

H7200

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

בָּהָֽר׃7 of 7

thee in the mount

H2022

a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)


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 26:30 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 26:30 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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