King James Version

What Does Exodus 35:17 Mean?

Exodus 35:17 in the King James Version says “The hangings of the court, his pillars, and their sockets, and the hanging for the door of the court, — study this verse from Exodus chapter 35 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

The hangings of the court, his pillars, and their sockets, and the hanging for the door of the court,

Exodus 35:17 · KJV


Context

15

And the incense altar, and his staves, and the anointing oil, and the sweet incense, and the hanging for the door at the entering in of the tabernacle,

16

The altar of burnt offering, with his brasen grate, his staves, and all his vessels, the laver and his foot,

17

The hangings of the court, his pillars, and their sockets, and the hanging for the door of the court,

18

The pins of the tabernacle, and the pins of the court, and their cords,

19

The cloths of service, to do service in the holy place, the holy garments for Aaron the priest, and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest's office.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The candlestick (מְנוֹרָה, menorah) provided the only light in the Holy Place, symbolizing God as the source of all illumination and truth. Its design—one central shaft with six branches—represents God's perfect light radiating through His people (Israel as seven branches, the complete number). Beaten from one piece of gold (31:8), it pictures unity and purity. Christ declared Himself the light of the world (John 8:12), and believers are called to be lights bearing witness to Him (Matthew 5:14-16).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The menorah weighed approximately 75 pounds of pure gold and stood about 5 feet tall. Its design included almond blossoms, knops (bulbs), and flowers—decorative elements reflecting the tree of life. It required daily tending with pure beaten olive oil.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the menorah's design (one piece with seven branches) illustrate both God's unity and His intention for His people to radiate His light?
  2. In what ways does the daily tending of the lamps teach about the need for continuous spiritual maintenance and walking in the light?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 11 words
אֵ֚ת1 of 11
H853

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

קַלְעֵ֣י2 of 11

The hangings

H7050

a (door) screen (as if slung across), or the valve (of the door) itself

הֶֽחָצֵֽר׃3 of 11

of the court

H2691

a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)

אֶת4 of 11
H853

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

עַמֻּדָ֖יו5 of 11

his pillars

H5982

a column (as standing); also a stand, i.e., platform

וְאֶת6 of 11
H853

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

אֲדָנֶ֑יהָ7 of 11

and their sockets

H134

a basis (of a building, a column, etc.)

וְאֵ֕ת8 of 11
H853

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

מָסַ֖ךְ9 of 11

and the hanging

H4539

a cover, i.e., veil

שַׁ֥עַר10 of 11

for the door

H8179

an opening, i.e., door or gate

הֶֽחָצֵֽר׃11 of 11

of the court

H2691

a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)


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 35:17 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 35:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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