King James Version

What Does Exodus 30:2 Mean?

Exodus 30:2 in the King James Version says “A cubit shall be the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof; foursquare shall it be: and two cubits shall be th...” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 30 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“A cubit shall be the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof; foursquare shall it be: and two cubits shall be the height thereof: the horns thereof shall be of the same.”

Exodus 30:2 · KJV

Context

1

And thou shalt make an altar to burn incense upon: of shittim wood shalt thou make it.

2

A cubit shall be the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof; foursquare shall it be: and two cubits shall be the height thereof: the horns thereof shall be of the same.

3

And thou shalt overlay it with pure gold, the top thereof, and the sides thereof round about, and the horns thereof; and thou shalt make unto it a crown of gold round about. top: Heb. roof sides: Heb. walls

4

And two golden rings shalt thou make to it under the crown of it, by the two corners thereof, upon the two sides of it shalt thou make it; and they shall be for places for the staves to bear it withal. corners: Heb. ribs

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The golden altar of incense stands before the veil, closest to God's presence. Daily incense offerings represent prayer ascending to God (Psalm 141:2, Revelation 5:8, 8:3-4). The altar's position—after the bronze altar (sacrifice) but before the Most Holy Place (God's throne)—teaches that prayer is based on atonement and leads to intimacy. Christ, our intercessor, causes our prayers to ascend acceptably, adding His perfect intercession to our imperfect petitions.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The high priest burned incense on this altar twice daily (morning and evening) when tending the lampstand. The fragrant smoke ascending into the Holy Place symbolized prayers rising to God's throne.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Christ's intercession make your prayers acceptable to God?
  2. Why must sacrifice (bronze altar) precede prayer (golden altar)?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
וְאַמָּתַ֖יִם1 of 10

“A cubit”

H520

properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)

אָרְכּ֜וֹ2 of 10

“shall be the length”

H753

length

וְאַמָּתַ֖יִם3 of 10

“A cubit”

H520

properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)

רָחְבּוֹ֙4 of 10

“the breadth”

H7341

width (literally or figuratively)

רָב֣וּעַ5 of 10

“thereof foursquare”

H7251

to be quadrate

יִֽהְיֶ֔ה6 of 10
H1961

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

וְאַמָּתַ֖יִם7 of 10

“A cubit”

H520

properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)

קֹֽמָת֑וֹ8 of 10

“shall be the height”

H6967

height

מִמֶּ֖נּוּ9 of 10
H4480

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

קַרְנֹתָֽיו׃10 of 10

“thereof the horns”

H7161

a horn (as projecting); by implication, a flask, cornet; by resemblance. an elephant's tooth (i.e., ivory), a corner (of the altar), a peak (of a moun

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 30:2 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 30:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 27:2

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