King James Version

What Does Exodus 31:11 Mean?

Exodus 31:11 in the King James Version says “And the anointing oil, and sweet incense for the holy place: according to all that I have commanded thee shall they do. — study this verse from Exodus chapter 31 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Exodus 31:11 · KJV


Context

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,

13

Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you.


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 · 11 words
וְאֵ֨ת1 of 11
H853

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

שֶׁ֧מֶן2 of 11

oil

H8081

grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness

הַמִּשְׁחָ֛ה3 of 11

And the anointing

H4888

unction (the act); by implication, a consecratory gift

וְאֶת4 of 11
H853

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

קְטֹ֥רֶת5 of 11

incense

H7004

a fumigation

הַסַּמִּ֖ים6 of 11

and sweet

H5561

an aroma

לַקֹּ֑דֶשׁ7 of 11

for the holy

H6944

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

כְּכֹ֥ל8 of 11
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

אֲשֶׁר9 of 11
H834

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

צִוִּיתִ֖ךָ10 of 11

place according to all that I have commanded

H6680

(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

יַֽעֲשֽׂוּ׃11 of 11

thee shall they do

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application


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 31:11 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 31:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Places in This Verse

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