Exodus 25:10

KJV

¶ And they shall make an ark [of] shittim wood: two cubits and a half [shall be] the length thereof, and a cubit and a half the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they shall make {H6213} an ark {H727} of shittim {H7848} wood {H6086}: two cubits {H520} and a half {H2677} shall be the length {H753} thereof, and a cubit {H520} and a half {H2677} the breadth {H7341} thereof, and a cubit {H520} and a half {H2677} the height {H6967} thereof.

Complete Jewish Bible

"They are to make an ark of acacia-wood three-and-three-quarters feet long, two-and-a-quarter feet wide and two-and-a-quarter feet high.

Berean Standard Bible

And they are to construct an ark of acacia wood, two and a half cubits long, a cubit and a half wide, and a cubit and a half high.

American Standard Version

And they shall make an ark of acacia wood: two cubits and a half shall be the length thereof, and a cubit and a half the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 25:10 initiates God's detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, focusing specifically on the Ark of the Covenant. This foundational verse outlines the primary material—shittim (acacia) wood—and the precise dimensions of this most sacred object, underscoring the divine origin and meticulous nature of God's blueprint for His dwelling place among His people, emphasizing both His holiness and His desire for intimate fellowship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Following the momentous giving of the Law at [Mount Sinai](/exodus/19 "Exodus 19 - God at Mount Sinai") and the ratification of the covenant with Israel, God summons Moses to the mountain to receive a comprehensive set of instructions for building a portable sanctuary. [Exodus chapters 25-31](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle") are entirely dedicated to this intricate divine blueprint, commencing with the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark is described first and in great detail, highlighting its foundational and preeminent importance as the central symbol of God's immediate presence, His throne, and the focal point from which He would communicate with His people. Its immediate description underscores its supreme significance within Israelite worship and their unique covenant relationship with Yahweh, serving as the sacred repository for the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna, as later confirmed in [Hebrews 9:4](/hebrews/9-4 "Hebrews 9:4 - Contents of the Ark"). This sequence establishes the Ark as the heart of the Tabernacle, around which all other elements revolve.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** At the time these instructions were given, the Israelites had recently been liberated from Egyptian bondage and were journeying through the harsh, arid [Sinai wilderness](/exodus/16 "Exodus 16 - Manna in the Wilderness") as a nomadic people. Their lifestyle necessitated a portable system of worship. While the concept of a deity dwelling among His people was not unique in the ancient Near East, the *nature* of Yahweh's dwelling—holy, precise, and accessible only on His terms—was profoundly distinct. The Tabernacle, with the Ark at its core, provided a tangible, visible, and mobile representation of God's covenant presence amidst their encampment, serving as the spiritual and geographical center of their community and identity. The choice of materials, such as shittim (acacia) wood, reflects the availability of resources in the desert environment, while the precise measurements speak to God's desire for order, His absolute authority, and the sacredness of His presence. The construction of such an elaborate structure required immense communal effort, reinforcing their identity as God's chosen people and their shared commitment to His covenant.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 25:10 contributes significantly to several major theological and narrative themes within the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **God's Presence (Immanence)**, demonstrating His desire to dwell intimately among His people, not merely to rule from afar. This verse also highlights **Divine Sovereignty and Authority**, as God Himself provides the exact blueprint for His dwelling, leaving no room for human improvisation, thereby emphasizing His absolute control over worship and sacred space. The theme of **Holiness and Separation** is also central, as the Ark's sacredness and precise construction underscore the need for a holy and set-apart approach to God. Furthermore, the detailed instructions for the Ark, as the repository of the Law, reinforce the theme of **Covenant Relationship**, where God's presence is intricately linked to His covenant stipulations and the obedience of His people, as seen in the broader context of [Exodus 24](/exodus/24 "Exodus 24 - The Covenant Confirmed").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **make (Hebrew, _ʻâsâh'_):** From H6213, a primitive root meaning "to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application." In this context, it signifies not merely a casual construction but a deliberate, divinely commanded act of creation. The verb implies purposeful action, execution, and accomplishment according to a specific design, highlighting the intentionality and authority behind God's instructions for the Ark's construction. It underscores that this was a mandatory, sacred task for the community.
* **ark (Hebrew, _ʼârôwn'_):** From H727, meaning "a box; ark, chest, coffin." While the term can refer to any chest, its usage here for the "Ark of the Covenant" elevates it to a unique, sacred object. It is not merely a container but a symbolic throne, a repository for the covenant tablets, and the central focus of God's presence and communication with Israel. Its designation as "the ark" immediately distinguishes it as the most significant piece of the Tabernacle furniture, embodying God's dwelling place.
* **shittim (Hebrew, _shiṭṭâh'_):** From H7848, the feminine of a derivative meaning "the acacia (from its scourging thorns)." This refers specifically to acacia wood, a tree common in the Sinai peninsula. Its selection is significant due to its exceptional hardness, durability, and resistance to decay and insects, making it an ideal material for a sacred object intended to endure the rigors of a wilderness journey and last for generations. The resilience of acacia wood symbolically points to the enduring, unchangeable nature of God's covenant and His promises to Israel, even in a harsh environment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they shall make an ark [of] shittim wood:"** This opening clause functions as a direct, imperative divine command, emphasizing that the construction of the Ark is not optional but a mandatory act of obedience for the Israelite community. The use of the plural "they" highlights the communal responsibility and participation required for this sacred task, signifying a collective effort in response to God's directive. The immediate specification of "shittim wood" (acacia) points to God's practical wisdom, choosing a material readily available in the wilderness that also possessed remarkable durability, thus ensuring the longevity and integrity of this most sacred object. It signifies the enduring nature of God's covenant presence.
* **"two cubits and a half [shall be] the length thereof, and a cubit and a half the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof."** This detailed specification of the Ark's precise dimensions underscores the meticulousness of God's design and the absolute precision required for its construction. The measurements (approximately 45x27x27 inches or 113x68x68 cm) indicate a substantial yet portable chest, suitable for transport by a nomadic people. The exactness of these dimensions, down to half-cubits, emphasizes that every aspect of God's dwelling and worship is divinely ordained, leaving no room for human improvisation, aesthetic preference, or error. This precision speaks profoundly to God's orderly nature, His demand for reverence, and the profound sacredness with which His presence was to be approached.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 25:10 employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound theological meaning. **Symbolism** is paramount, as the Ark itself is not merely a container but a potent symbol of God's holy presence, His covenant relationship with Israel, and His divine throne on earth. It serves as a tangible representation of the invisible God dwelling among His people. The choice of **shittim wood** also carries symbolic weight, representing durability, resilience, and the enduring nature of God's promises even in a harsh, transient environment. Furthermore, the verse exemplifies **Divine Precision** through the exact, fractional measurements provided. This meticulous detail underscores God's absolute authority and His demand for exact obedience in matters of worship and sacred space, reflecting a divine blueprint that leaves no room for human error or deviation. The specificity of the instructions also functions as a literary technique to convey the immense importance and sacredness of the object being described, elevating it beyond mere craftsmanship to a divinely ordained artifact.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 25:10 introduces the central object of the Tabernacle, establishing a profound theological truth: God desires to dwell among His people. The meticulous instructions for the Ark underscore God's holiness and the necessity of approaching Him on His terms, not human ones. This divine blueprint reveals a God of order, precision, and intentionality, who actively designs the means by which His presence is manifested and His covenant maintained. The Ark, as the repository of the Law and the place of atonement (via the mercy seat), serves as a tangible reminder of both God's righteous demands and His gracious provision for fellowship with a sinful humanity. It foreshadows the ultimate means by which humanity can truly access God's presence.

* [Exodus 29:45-46](/exodus/29-45-46 "God's Promise to Dwell Among Israel")
* [Leviticus 16:2](/leviticus/16-2 "The Holy Place and the Ark")
* [Psalm 99:1](/psalm/99-1 "God Enthroned Above the Cherubim")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 25:10, with its precise instructions for the Ark, offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is a God of order, detail, and intentionality, whose purposes are never haphazard or negotiable. Just as the Ark was to be built according to a divine blueprint, our lives and worship should be meticulously shaped by God's revealed will in His Word, rather than by personal preference, cultural trends, or human wisdom. This calls us to a posture of deep reverence, careful attention to biblical truth, and faithful obedience in all areas of our faith and practice. It challenges us to consider whether we approach God on His terms, acknowledging His absolute holiness and sovereignty, or on our own. Ultimately, this passage encourages us to seek God's presence with intentionality, to honor Him by living lives that reflect His divine design, and to trust that He desires to dwell with us, having provided the perfect and complete way through Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's meticulousness in designing the Ark challenge my own approach to worship and obedience in my daily life?**
* **In what specific ways might I be tempted to "cut corners" or deviate from God's "blueprint" as revealed in His Word for my spiritual walk?**
* **What does the Ark's symbolism of God's dwelling presence teach me about the nature of God's relationship with His people today, and how should that inform my pursuit of Him?**

### FAQ
**What was the primary purpose of the Ark of the Covenant?**

Answer: The primary purpose of the Ark of the Covenant was to serve as the most sacred object in the Tabernacle, symbolizing God's immediate and holy presence among His people. It functioned as God's earthly throne, from which He would communicate directly with Moses ([Exodus 25:22](/exodus/25-22 "Exodus 25:22 - God Speaks from the Mercy Seat")) and later with the high priest. It also served as a sacred repository for the tablets of the Law, representing God's covenant with Israel and the unchanging nature of His commands ([Deuteronomy 10:1-5](/deuteronomy/10-1-5 "Deuteronomy 10:1-5 - The Second Set of Tablets")). The Ark was central to Israel's worship, national identity, and understanding of God's holiness, justice, and faithfulness.

**Why was "shittim wood" (acacia wood) specified for the Ark's construction?**

Answer: Shittim wood, or acacia wood, was specified for both practical and symbolic reasons. Practically, it was readily available in the Sinai wilderness, making it a pragmatic choice for the Israelites during their nomadic journey. More importantly, acacia wood is exceptionally hard, dense, durable, and highly resistant to decay, insects, and the harsh desert climate. These qualities ensured the longevity and integrity of such a sacred and portable object. Symbolically, its resilience pointed to the enduring, unchangeable, and faithful nature of God's covenant and His promises to His people, even amidst challenging and transient conditions.

**What is the significance of the precise dimensions given for the Ark?**

Answer: The precise dimensions (two and a half cubits long, and a cubit and a half wide and high) are profoundly significant because they underscore God's meticulousness, His divine authority, and His demand for exact obedience in the construction of His dwelling place. These precise measurements communicate that the Ark was not to be built according to human whim, aesthetic preference, or cultural norms, but strictly according to divine revelation. This exactitude emphasizes God's perfect order, His absolute sovereignty over worship, and the profound sacredness of His presence, leaving no room for human improvisation or error in matters concerning His holy dwelling.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Ark of the Covenant, as the earthly throne of God's holy presence among His people, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ. While the Ark symbolized God "tabernacling" with Israel in a physical structure, Jesus is Immanuel, "God with us" ([Matthew 1:23](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Jesus is Immanuel")), the very embodiment of God's dwelling among humanity. Just as the Ark contained the Law, Jesus perfectly fulfilled the Law in every detail ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")) and established a new covenant, not written on stone tablets but on the hearts of believers by the Spirit ([Hebrews 8:10](/hebrews/8-10 "Hebrews 8:10 - The New Covenant")). The mercy seat atop the Ark, where atonement was made through sacrificial blood, powerfully foreshadowed Christ, who is our ultimate propitiation and the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). His sacrifice on the cross provides true, eternal, and perfect access to God's presence ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ, Our High Priest")). He is the true and greater Tabernacle, through whom we now boldly approach the [throne of grace](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace") with confidence. Ultimately, the temporary dwelling of God represented by the Ark points forward to the eternal reality of God's full and unhindered presence with His redeemed people in the new heaven and new earth, where He will truly "dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God" ([Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God Dwells with Humanity")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Hebrews 9:4

Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein [was] the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant;

Exodus 37:1

¶ And Bezaleel made the ark [of] shittim wood: two cubits and a half [was] the length of it, and a cubit and a half the breadth of it, and a cubit and a half the height of it:

Exodus 37:3

And he cast for it four rings of gold, [to be set] by the four corners of it; even two rings upon the one side of it, and two rings upon the other side of it.

Deuteronomy 10:1

¶ At that time the LORD said unto me, Hew thee two tables of stone like unto the first, and come up unto me into the mount, and make thee an ark of wood.

Deuteronomy 10:3

And I made an ark [of] shittim wood, and hewed two tables of stone like unto the first, and went up into the mount, having the two tables in mine hand.

Revelation 11:19

And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.

2 Chronicles 8:11

And Solomon brought up the daughter of Pharaoh out of the city of David unto the house that he had built for her: for he said, My wife shall not dwell in the house of David king of Israel, because [the places are] holy, whereunto the ark of the LORD hath come.