King James Version

What Does Exodus 31:8 Mean?

Exodus 31:8 in the King James Version says “And the table and his furniture, and the pure candlestick with all his furniture, and the altar of incense, furniture: H... — study this verse from Exodus chapter 31 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Exodus 31:8 · KJV


Context

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

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,


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 · 13 words
וְאֶת1 of 13
H853

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

הַשֻּׁלְחָן֙2 of 13

And the table

H7979

a table (as spread out); by implication, a meal

וְאֶת3 of 13
H853

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

כֵּלֶ֑יהָ4 of 13

and his furniture

H3627

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

וְאֶת5 of 13
H853

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

הַמְּנֹרָ֥ה6 of 13

candlestick

H4501

a chandelier

הַטְּהֹרָ֖ה7 of 13

and the pure

H2889

pure (in a physical, chemical, ceremonial or moral sense)

וְאֶת8 of 13
H853

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

כָּל9 of 13
H3605

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

כֵּלֶ֑יהָ10 of 13

and his furniture

H3627

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

וְאֵ֖ת11 of 13
H853

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

מִזְבַּ֥ח12 of 13

and the altar

H4196

an altar

הַקְּטֹֽרֶת׃13 of 13

of incense

H7004

a fumigation


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 31:8 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 31:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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