King James Version

What Does Exodus 31:7 Mean?

Exodus 31:7 in the King James Version says “The tabernacle of the congregation, and the ark of the testimony, and the mercy seat that is thereupon, and all the furn...” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 31 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The tabernacle of the congregation, and the ark of the testimony, and the mercy seat that is thereupon, and all the furniture of the tabernacle, furniture: Heb. vessels”

Exodus 31:7 · KJV

Context

5

And in cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship.

6

And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee;

7

The tabernacle of the congregation, and the ark of the testimony, and the mercy seat that is thereupon, and all the furniture of the tabernacle, furniture: Heb. vessels

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

Read Exodus 31 full chapter

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 · 14 words
אֵ֣ת׀1 of 14
H853

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

הָאֹֽהֶל׃2 of 14

“The tabernacle”

H168

a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)

מוֹעֵ֗ד3 of 14

“of the congregation”

H4150

properly, an appointment, i.e., a fixed time or season; specifically, a festival; conventionally a year; by implication, an assembly (as convened for

וְאֶת4 of 14
H853

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

הָֽאָרֹן֙5 of 14

“and the ark”

H727

a box

לָֽעֵדֻ֔ת6 of 14

“of the testimony”

H5715

testimony

וְאֶת7 of 14
H853

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

הַכַּפֹּ֖רֶת8 of 14

“and the mercy seat”

H3727

a lid (used only of the cover of the sacred ark)

אֲשֶׁ֣ר9 of 14
H834

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

עָלָ֑יו10 of 14
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

וְאֵ֖ת11 of 14
H853

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

כָּל12 of 14
H3605

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

כְּלֵ֥י13 of 14

“that is thereupon and all the furniture”

H3627

something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)

הָאֹֽהֶל׃14 of 14

“The tabernacle”

H168

a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)

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 31:7 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 31:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 36:8-37:9Exodus 27:9-19Exodus 25:10-22Exodus 26:1-37

Test Your Knowledge

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

Continue Your Study

Read Exodus 31 with CommentaryAll Exodus ChaptersComplete Exodus QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes