King James Version

What Does Exodus 31:12 Mean?

Exodus 31:12 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 31:12 · KJV

Context

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.

14

Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people.

Read Exodus 31 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The Sabbath is a sign between God and Israel forever, reminding them that the LORD sanctifies them. Sabbath-keeping testified to creation (God rested on the seventh day) and sanctification (God sets apart His people). Sabbath rest prefigures the spiritual rest believers find in Christ—ceasing from self-effort, trusting His finished work (Hebrews 4:9-10). Violating the Sabbath incurred death, showing that rejecting God's rest is spiritual death.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The Sabbath command's placement after tabernacle instructions (before construction began) emphasized that even sacred work must pause for sacred rest. God's people rest in His timing, not working constantly even for holy purposes.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Sabbath rest prefigure ceasing from self-effort and resting in Christ's finished work?
  2. What does the severity of Sabbath violation teach about rejecting God's rest?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
לֵּאמֹֽר׃1 of 5

“saying”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

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 31:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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