King James Version

What Does Exodus 31:2 Mean?

Exodus 31:2 in the King James Version says “See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah:” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 31 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Exodus 31:2 · 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,

4

To devise cunning works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass,

Read Exodus 31 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Bezalel ben Uri ben Hur, of the tribe of Judah, is called by name—God knows His workers individually. Bezalel (בְּצַלְאֵל, 'in the shadow/protection of God') bears a name reflecting his relationship with God. From Judah's tribe (the royal tribe from which David and Christ come), Bezalel represents how God uses those under His protection for His purposes. Christ, the ultimate Son of Judah, is 'in the shadow of the Almighty' and accomplishes God's redemptive work.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Bezalel's genealogy is given (son of Uri, son of Hur), establishing his legitimate place in Israel. Hur had supported Moses during the Amalek battle (Exodus 17:12), possibly indicating that faithful families often produce faithful servants across generations.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does Bezalel's name ('in the shadow of God') teach about working under divine protection?
  2. How does Christ, the ultimate Son of Judah, accomplish God's purposes from 'the shadow of the Almighty'?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
רְאֵ֖ה1 of 10

“See”

H7200

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

קָרָ֣אתִֽי2 of 10

“I have called”

H7121

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

בְשֵׁ֑ם3 of 10

“by name”

H8034

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

בְּצַלְאֵ֛ל4 of 10

“Bezaleel”

H1212

betsalel, the name of two israelites

בֶן5 of 10

“the son”

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

אוּרִ֥י6 of 10

“of Uri”

H221

uri, the name of three israelites

בֶן7 of 10

“the son”

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

ח֖וּר8 of 10

“of Hur”

H2354

chur, the name of four israelites and one midianite

לְמַטֵּ֥ה9 of 10

“of the tribe”

H4294

a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),

יְהוּדָֽה׃10 of 10

“of Judah”

H3063

jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory

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 31:2 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 31:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 36:1Exodus 35:30John 3:27Exodus 33:12Mark 3:16-19Isaiah 45:3-4

Test Your Knowledge

Exodus 31 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterExodus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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