King James Version

What Does Exodus 39:43 Mean?

Exodus 39:43 in the King James Version says “And Moses did look upon all the work, and, behold, they had done it as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it:... — study this verse from Exodus chapter 39 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And Moses did look upon all the work, and, behold, they had done it as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them.

Exodus 39:43 · KJV


Context

41

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

42

According to all that the LORD commanded Moses, so the children of Israel made all the work.

43

And Moses did look upon all the work, and, behold, they had done it as the LORD had commanded, even so had they done it: and Moses blessed them.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Moses' inspection ('did look upon all the work, and, behold') and verification ('they had done it as the LORD had commanded') led to blessing. The Hebrew וַיְבָרֶךְ (vay'varekh, and he blessed them) recalls creation—God blessed completed work (Genesis 1:22, 28; 2:3). The threefold emphasis (made, commanded, done) teaches that obedience brings blessing. Moses, as mediator, pronounced blessing on faithful servants—prefiguring Christ blessing those who do the Father's will (Matthew 25:21, 23). This blessing inaugurates chapter 40's tabernacle dedication.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Moses' blessing demonstrated leadership's priestly function—faithful leaders bless obedient servants. This blessing echoed earlier pronouncements (Leviticus 9:22-23; Numbers 6:23-27) and anticipated the high priestly blessings Aaron would pronounce. Moses' verification ensured that blessing rested on genuine obedience, not presumed service.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Moses blessing obedient workers teach that faithful service receives divine approval?
  2. What does the connection between obedience and blessing reveal about rewards for faithful stewardship?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 16 words
וַיַּ֨רְא1 of 16

did look

H7200

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

מֹשֶֽׁה׃2 of 16

And Moses

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

אֶת3 of 16
H853

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

כָּל4 of 16
H3605

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

הַמְּלָאכָ֗ה5 of 16

the work

H4399

properly, deputyship, i.e., ministry; generally, employment (never servile) or work (abstractly or concretely); also property (as the result of labor)

וְהִנֵּה֙6 of 16
H2009

lo!

עָשׂ֑וּ7 of 16

and behold they had done

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אֹתָ֔הּ8 of 16
H853

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

כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֛ר9 of 16
H834

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

צִוָּ֥ה10 of 16

had commanded

H6680

(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

יְהוָ֖ה11 of 16

it as the LORD

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

כֵּ֣ן12 of 16

upon all

H3651

properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

עָשׂ֑וּ13 of 16

and behold they had done

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

וַיְבָ֥רֶךְ14 of 16

blessed

H1288

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

אֹתָ֖ם15 of 16
H853

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

מֹשֶֽׁה׃16 of 16

And Moses

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver


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 39:43 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 39:43 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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