What number verse is Exodus 38:20 in the Bible?

Exodus 38:20 is the 2,654th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Exodus 38:20 sits at position 2,654.

38:1938:19

Exodus 38:20

Q: What is the significance of "brass" (bronze) as the material for the pins?

The Hebrew word translated "brass" is nᵉchôsheth, which refers to copper or, more accurately, bronze. Bronze was chosen for its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion, making it an ideal material for anchoring elements that needed to withstand the elements. Theologically, bronze in the Tabernacle often symbolizes strength, endurance, and judgment. It was used for the altar of burnt offering, where sin was judged, and the laver, used for purification. Thus, the bronze pins subtly connect the physical stability of the Tabernacle to the steadfastness of God's righteous character and His enduring covenant promises.

38:2138:21

Translation

King James Version

And all the pins of the tabernacle, and of the court round about, were of brass.

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KJV (with Strong's)

And all the pins ^H3489 of the tabernacle ^H4908, and of the court ^H2691 round about ^H5439, were of brass ^H5178.

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Complete Jewish Bible

The tent pegs for the tabernacle and for the courtyard around it were of bronze.

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Berean Standard Bible

All the tent pegs for the tabernacle and for the surrounding courtyard were bronze.

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American Standard Version

And all the pins of the tabernacle, and of the court round about, were of brass.

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World English Bible Messianic

All the pins of the tabernacle, and around the court, were of brass.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

But all the pins of the Tabernacle and of the court round about were of brasse.

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Young's Literal Translation

and all the pins for the tabernacle, and for the court round about, are of brass.

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Exodus 38:20 concludes the detailed inventory of materials for the Tabernacle and its surrounding court, specifically highlighting the "pins" or tent pegs. This verse underscores the meticulous attention to detail in God's divine blueprint for His dwelling place, emphasizing that even the most utilitarian components were essential for the stability and integrity of the sacred structure. It reveals that every element, down to the foundational anchors, was crafted from the strong and enduring material of brass (bronze) according to God's precise specifications, reflecting His comprehensive and perfect design.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: This verse is situated within a lengthy and highly detailed section of Exodus, spanning from chapter 25 through chapter 40, which meticulously describes the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. Following the initial divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai, chapters 35-39 recount the actual execution of these commands by the skilled craftsmen, Bezalel and Oholiab, and the willing contributions of the Israelites. Exodus 38 specifically details the construction of the court of the Tabernacle, including the altar of burnt offering, the laver, and the pillars and hangings of the court. Verse 20, therefore, serves as a concluding statement to this inventory, ensuring that even the foundational and often overlooked elements, like the pins, are accounted for and built according to God's precise specifications, reinforcing the theme of divine completeness and human obedience in the entire project.
Historical & Cultural Context: The Tabernacle was designed as a portable sanctuary, intended to accompany the Israelites during their nomadic journey through the wilderness from Egypt to the Promised Land. In such an environment, exposed to strong desert winds and shifting sands, the stability of any large tent-like structure was paramount. Tent pegs or "pins" were absolutely crucial for anchoring the heavy curtains, coverings, and frameworks of both the Tabernacle proper and the surrounding court. The choice of "brass" (more accurately, bronze) for these pins was not arbitrary. Bronze was a robust and durable metal, far superior to wood or softer metals for resisting the elements and providing firm anchorage. This practical necessity aligns with God's comprehensive provision for His people, ensuring the physical security of His dwelling place amidst the challenging conditions of their wilderness sojourn. The meticulous detailing of every component, down to the pins, reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding of sacred space, where every element of a temple or cultic site was imbued with significance and constructed with utmost precision to honor the deity.
Key Themes: This verse contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent in the Tabernacle narrative. Foremost is the theme of Divine Meticulousness and Perfection, illustrating that God's design leaves no detail to chance, no element too small to be precisely specified. It also highlights Human Obedience and Faithfulness, as the Israelites diligently followed every instruction, demonstrating their commitment to God's revealed will. The verse further reinforces the theme of God's Presence and Provision, showing how even the seemingly humble components were essential for establishing a secure and stable dwelling place for the Lord among His people in the wilderness. Finally, the choice of materials, particularly bronze, subtly introduces themes of Strength, Endurance, and Judgment, which are woven throughout the Tabernacle's symbolism.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Pins (Hebrew, yâthêd', H3489): This term (H3489) refers to a peg, nail, or stake, specifically tent pegs, which were essential for securing structures to the ground. In the context of the Tabernacle, these pins were critical for anchoring the heavy linen curtains, the framework of the Tabernacle, and the surrounding court hangings. Their function underscores the theme of stability, security, and the firm establishment of God's dwelling place. Though seemingly minor, they were foundational to the entire structure's integrity, preventing it from being toppled by wind or shifting, embodying the concept of something "pinned through or fast."
Tabernacle (Hebrew, mishkân', H4908): This word (H4908) denotes a residence or dwelling place, specifically referring to the portable sanctuary constructed by the Israelites in the wilderness. It was God's chosen "dwelling place" among His people, symbolizing His presence and covenant relationship. The term emphasizes the temporary, mobile nature of this sacred structure, contrasting with a permanent temple, yet it was meticulously designed to be a stable and secure habitation for the Divine Presence.
Brass (Hebrew, nᵉchôsheth', H5178): While commonly translated as "brass" (H5178) in the KJV, this Hebrew term more accurately refers to copper or, more frequently in biblical contexts, bronze (an alloy of copper and tin). As a metal, bronze was highly valued for its strength, durability, and resilience, making it an ideal material for the pins that needed to withstand significant tension and environmental stress in the desert. Theologically, bronze in the Tabernacle often carries symbolic weight, representing strength, endurance, and divine judgment. It was notably used for the altar of burnt offering and the laver, both associated with atonement, sacrifice, and purification. The use of bronze for the pins subtly connects the Tabernacle's physical stability to God's righteous judgment and His enduring strength and faithfulness.

Verse Breakdown

"And all the pins of the tabernacle,": This phrase emphasizes the totality and universality of the command. Not some, but "all" the pins were to be made of a specific material, highlighting God's meticulousness. The "pins of the tabernacle" refer to those specifically used for the main sanctuary structure, anchoring its frames and coverings, ensuring the stability of God's immediate dwelling place.
"and of the court round about,": This extends the scope of the command beyond the immediate Tabernacle structure to encompass the entire sacred enclosure. The court, defined by its linen hangings and pillars, also required substantial anchoring to maintain its boundaries and provide a secure, defined space for worship. This demonstrates God's holistic concern for the integrity of the entire sacred complex, from its innermost sanctuary to its outermost perimeter.
"[were of] brass.": This specifies the material, nᵉchôsheth (bronze), for these crucial anchoring elements. The choice of bronze signifies strength, durability, and resilience, ensuring the Tabernacle's steadfastness in the harsh wilderness environment. It also carries the symbolic weight of divine strength and the enduring nature of God's covenant presence, subtly connecting the physical stability of the structure to the unshakeable character of God Himself.

Literary Devices

Exodus 38:20, though brief, employs several literary techniques that enhance its theological significance. The most prominent is Emphasis through Detail, a characteristic feature of the Tabernacle accounts. By explicitly mentioning the humble "pins" after detailing grander elements like the ark, altar, and lampstand, the text underscores that no detail, however small or utilitarian, was overlooked in God's divine blueprint. This meticulous enumeration reinforces the concept of divine perfection and the sacredness of the entire structure. There is also an element of Symbolism, where the brass (bronze) material itself carries theological weight, representing strength, endurance, and judgment, subtly connecting the physical stability of the Tabernacle to the steadfastness of God's character and covenant. Finally, the phrase "tabernacle, and of the court round about" functions as a form of Merism, encompassing the entirety of the sacred complex, from its innermost sanctuary to its outermost boundaries, ensuring that every part was consecrated and constructed according to divine will.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Exodus 38:20, by focusing on the seemingly minor detail of the Tabernacle's pins, profoundly illustrates God's meticulous nature and the holistic perfection of His divine design. It conveys that in God's economy, no detail is too small to escape His attention or to be insignificant to the greater whole. Just as the pins were vital for the physical stability of the Tabernacle, every component of God's plan, whether grand or humble, contributes to His overarching purpose. This theme of divine precision and the importance of every part resonates throughout Scripture, reminding us that God's work is comprehensive and perfectly ordered, and that He values faithfulness in all things, great and small.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The humble pins of the Tabernacle offer a powerful lesson for our lives of faith. They remind us that true strength and stability often depend on the integrity of the foundational, often unseen, elements. In our spiritual journeys, it's easy to focus on the grand, visible aspects of faith—public service, eloquent prayers, or dramatic testimonies. Yet, this verse calls us to consider the "pins" of our lives: the consistent, quiet disciplines of prayer, diligent study of God's Word, faithful stewardship of small tasks, and unwavering commitment to integrity in private. These are the "brass pins" that provide stability when the winds of life blow, anchoring us firmly in Christ. Just as every pin was essential for the Tabernacle's function, every believer, no matter how seemingly insignificant their role, is indispensable to the body of Christ. We are called to faithfulness in the little things, trusting that God uses every part, seen and unseen, to build His enduring kingdom. Our steadfastness in these foundational practices ensures our spiritual resilience and contributes to the collective strength of the Church.

Questions for Reflection

What "pins" or foundational elements in your spiritual life might you be overlooking or taking for granted?
How does the meticulous detail of God's Tabernacle design encourage you about His care for your own life?
In what ways can you embrace and value the "small" or unseen contributions you make to God's kingdom or your community?

FAQ

Why were the pins so important if they were such a small detail?

Answer: The pins, though small, were absolutely critical for the structural integrity and stability of the entire Tabernacle and its court. In the harsh, windy desert environment, these tent pegs were the anchors that secured the heavy curtains, coverings, and frameworks to the ground, preventing the sacred dwelling from being toppled or damaged. Their importance highlights God's meticulous design, where every component, no matter how humble, was essential for the proper function and stability of His dwelling place among His people. It teaches us that in God's kingdom, there are no insignificant parts; every detail contributes to the whole.

What is the significance of "brass" (bronze) as the material for the pins?

Answer: The Hebrew word translated "brass" is nᵉchôsheth, which refers to copper or, more accurately, bronze. Bronze was chosen for its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion, making it an ideal material for anchoring elements that needed to withstand the elements. Theologically, bronze in the Tabernacle often symbolizes strength, endurance, and judgment. It was used for the altar of burnt offering, where sin was judged, and the laver, used for purification. Thus, the bronze pins subtly connect the physical stability of the Tabernacle to the steadfastness of God's righteous character and His enduring covenant promises.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The humble brass pins of the Tabernacle, essential for its stability and security, powerfully foreshadow Christ as the ultimate anchor and foundation of our faith. Just as these pins secured God's earthly dwelling, Christ is the one upon whom our eternal hope and salvation are firmly secured. The strength and endurance of the bronze speak to the unshakeable nature of Christ's work and His enduring covenant. He is the cornerstone upon whom the entire spiritual temple, the Church, is built, ensuring its steadfastness against all spiritual winds and storms. The meticulous detail in the Tabernacle's construction, down to the smallest pin, points to the perfect and comprehensive plan of God, fully realized in Jesus Christ, who came not to abolish the Law but to fulfill it. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Christ bore the judgment symbolized by the bronze, becoming our righteousness and the secure, eternal foundation upon which we can confidently build our lives, knowing that He is our hope, an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. His finished work provides the ultimate stability for all who believe, ensuring that God's dwelling place among humanity is eternally established.

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Commentary on Exodus 38 verses 9–20

9 ¶ And he made the court: on the south side southward the hangings of the court were of fine twined linen, an hundred cubits:

10 Their pillars were twenty, and their brasen sockets twenty; the hooks of the pillars and their fillets were of silver.

11 And for the north side the hangings were an hundred cubits, their pillars were twenty, and their sockets of brass twenty; the hooks of the pillars and their fillets of silver.

12 And for the west side were hangings of fifty cubits, their pillars ten, and their sockets ten; the hooks of the pillars and their fillets of silver.

13 And for the east side eastward fifty cubits.

14 The hangings of the one side of the gate were fifteen cubits; their pillars three, and their sockets three.

15 And for the other side of the court gate, on this hand and that hand, were hangings of fifteen cubits; their pillars three, and their sockets three.

16 All the hangings of the court round about were of fine twined linen.

17 And the sockets for the pillars were of brass; the hooks of the pillars and their fillets of silver; and the overlaying of their chapiters of silver; and all the pillars of the court were filleted with silver.

18 And the hanging for the gate of the court was needlework, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: and twenty cubits was the length, and the height in the breadth was five cubits, answerable to the hangings of the court.

19 And their pillars were four, and their sockets of brass four; their hooks of silver, and the overlaying of their chapiters and their fillets of silver.

20 And all the pins of the tabernacle, and of the court round about, were of brass.

The walls of the court, or church-yard, were like the rest curtains or hangings, made according to the appointment, Exo 27:9, etc. This represented the state of the Old Testament church: it was a garden enclosed; the worshippers were then confined to a little compass. But the enclosure being of curtains only intimated that the confinement of the church in one particular nation was not to be perpetual. The dispensation itself was a tabernacle-dispensation, movable and mutable, and in due time to be taken down and folded up, when the place of the tent should be enlarged and its cords lengthened, to make room for the Gentile world, as is foretold, Isa 54:2, Isa 54:3. The church here on earth is but the court of God's house, and happy they that tread these courts and flourish in them; but through these courts we are passing to the holy place above. Blessed are those that dwell in that house of God: they well be still praising him. The enclosing of a court before the tabernacle teaches us a gradual approach to God. The priests that ministered must pass through the holy court, before they entered the holy house. Thus before solemn ordinances there ought to be the separated and enclosed court of a solemn preparation, in which we must wash our hands, and so draw near with a true heart.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 9–20. Public domain.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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Cross-References

Isaiah 33:20
Look upon Zion, the city of our solemnities: thine eyes shall see Jerusalem a quiet habitation, a tabernacle that shall not be taken down; not one of the stakes thereof shall ever be removed, neither shall any of the cords thereof be broken.
Colossians 2:19
And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.
Ephesians 2:21
In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
Ephesians 2:22
In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
2 Chronicles 3:9
And the weight of the nails was fifty shekels of gold. And he overlaid the upper chambers with gold.
Ezra 9:8
And now for a little space grace hath been shewed from the LORD our God, to leave us a remnant to escape, and to give us a nail in his holy place, that our God may lighten our eyes, and give us a little reviving in our bondage.
Exodus 27:19
All the vessels of the tabernacle in all the service thereof, and all the pins thereof, and all the pins of the court, shall be of brass.