King James Version

What Does Exodus 31:10 Mean?

Exodus 31:10 in the King James Version says “And the cloths of service, and the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the ... — study this verse from Exodus chapter 31 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And the cloths of service, and the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest's office,

Exodus 31:10 · KJV


Context

8

And the table and his furniture, and the pure candlestick with all his furniture, and the altar of incense, furniture: Heb. vessels

9

And the altar of burnt offering with all his furniture, and the laver and his foot, furniture: Heb. vessels

10

And the cloths of service, and the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest's office,

11

And the anointing oil, and sweet incense for the holy place: according to all that I have commanded thee shall they do.

12

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Bezalel and Oholiab are filled with God's Spirit for artistic work—wisdom, understanding, knowledge, craftsmanship. This demonstrates that the Holy Spirit equips not only for preaching/teaching but for creative, technical skills. All talents serve God's purposes when consecrated to Him. The Spirit who designed creation enables artisans to create beauty for worship. Christ, the wisdom of God, is the ultimate craftsman who builds His church.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

These craftsmen led teams of skilled workers who constructed the tabernacle according to Moses' pattern. Their Spirit-filling for technical work demonstrated that God values and empowers all forms of service, not just spiritual leadership.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the Spirit's equipping for artistic work validate creativity and craftsmanship as ministry?
  2. What talents has God given you that can serve His purposes when consecrated to Him?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 12 words
וְאֵ֖ת1 of 12
H853

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

בִּגְדֵ֥י2 of 12

And the cloths

H899

a covering, i.e., clothing

הַשְּׂרָ֑ד3 of 12

of service

H8278

stitching (as pierced with a needle)

וְאֶת4 of 12
H853

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

בִּגְדֵ֥י5 of 12

And the cloths

H899

a covering, i.e., clothing

הַקֹּ֙דֶשׁ֙6 of 12

and the holy

H6944

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

לְאַֽהֲרֹ֣ן7 of 12

for Aaron

H175

aharon, the brother of moses

הַכֹּהֵ֔ן8 of 12

the priest

H3548

literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)

וְאֶת9 of 12
H853

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

בִּגְדֵ֥י10 of 12

And the cloths

H899

a covering, i.e., clothing

בָנָ֖יו11 of 12

of his sons

H1121

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

לְכַהֵֽן׃12 of 12

to minister in the priest's office

H3547

to officiate as a priest; figuratively, to put on regalia


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 31:10 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 31:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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