King James Version

What Does Exodus 40:1 Mean?

Exodus 40:1 in the King James Version says “And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 40 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,”

Exodus 40:1 · KJV

Context

1

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

2

On the first day of the first month shalt thou set up the tabernacle of the tent of the congregation.

3

And thou shalt put therein the ark of the testimony, and cover the ark with the vail.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The LORD spake unto Moses (וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה, vayedaber YHWH el-Mosheh)—the verb דָּבַר (davar, to speak) introduces divine instruction for erecting the completed tabernacle. This formulaic opening appears 38 times in Exodus, establishing Moses' unique prophetic authority as the one to whom YHWH speaks directly (Numbers 12:6-8).

Exodus 40 brings the book full circle: it began with Israel enslaved in Egypt (1:1-14) and ends with God's glory dwelling among them (40:34-38). The simple phrase saying (לֵּאמֹר, lemor) introduces God's detailed commands for the tabernacle's dedication on the first day of the first month—exactly one year after the first Passover. This marks Israel's transformation from liberated slaves to a nation hosting God's presence.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This occurred in 1445 BC, approximately nine months after the exodus and three months after Moses received the Law at Sinai. The tabernacle construction demonstrates Israel's restoration after the golden calf apostasy—God's willingness to dwell among a redeemed but imperfect people.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does God's continued communication with Moses after Israel's golden calf sin teach about His faithfulness?
  2. How should we prepare to meet with God, knowing He desires to dwell with His people?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר1 of 5

“spake”

H1696

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

יְהוָ֖ה2 of 5

“And the LORD”

H3068

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

אֶל3 of 5
H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

מֹשֶׁ֥ה4 of 5

“unto Moses”

H4872

mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

לֵּאמֹֽר׃5 of 5

“saying”

H559

to say (used with great latitude)

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 40:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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