King James Version

What Does Exodus 31:1 Mean?

Exodus 31:1 in the King James Version says “And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 31 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,”

Exodus 31:1 · KJV

Context

1

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

2

See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah:

3

And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,

Read Exodus 31 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The LORD speaks to Moses—divine initiative again. God doesn't wait for Moses to ask about craftsmen but proactively provides. This establishes that God supplies what His purposes require. He commands the tabernacle's construction and provides the skilled workers to accomplish it. Similarly, God calls us to tasks and equips us for them—He never commands without enabling. His commands carry His empowerment.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This section (31:1-11) names specific craftsmen filled with God's Spirit for artistic work, demonstrating that God values and empowers creative, technical skills as much as teaching or leadership. All talents are Spirit-gifts for kingdom purposes.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's provision of craftsmen demonstrate that His commands include His enabling?
  2. What does Spirit-filling for artistic work teach about God's view of creativity and craftsmanship?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר1 of 5

“spake”

H1696

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

יְהוָ֖ה2 of 5

“And the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֶל3 of 5
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

מֹשֶׁ֥ה4 of 5

“unto Moses”

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

לֵּאמֹֽר׃5 of 5

“saying”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

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 31:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Test Your Knowledge

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