Exodus 38:20

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

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

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

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

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

Commentary

Exodus 38:20 concludes the detailed inventory of materials used in the construction of the Tabernacle and its surrounding court, specifically highlighting the humble yet crucial "pins" or tent pegs. This verse emphasizes the meticulous attention to detail required in building God's dwelling place.

Context

This verse is part of a lengthy section in Exodus (chapters 25-40) describing the meticulous fulfillment of God's instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai for building His dwelling place among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. After detailing the precious metals, fine linens, and skilled craftsmanship, the text ensures that even the most utilitarian components are accounted for. The pins were essential for securing the entire structure—both the Tabernacle itself and the surrounding court—against winds and ensuring its stability in the desert environment.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Precision and Completeness: God's instructions left no detail overlooked, from the grandest furnishings to the smallest, most utilitarian components like these pins. This underscores the divine wisdom and perfection of His design for the Tabernacle. Every part, no matter how small, was vital for the whole.
  • Stability and Security: The brass pins provided the physical anchor for the entire sacred complex, symbolizing the security and steadfastness found in God's presence and His covenant with His people. They ensured the Tabernacle remained steadfast in the desert environment.
  • Symbolism of Brass/Bronze: In biblical typology, brass (or bronze) is often associated with judgment, strength, and endurance. It was also the material for the altar of burnt offering and the laver of brass in the Tabernacle court, both places related to atonement and cleansing. That even the pins were made of this strong, resilient metal speaks to the enduring nature of God's sanctuary and the firm foundation of His covenant promises.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV term "brass" here translates the Hebrew word nechoshet (נְחֹשֶׁת), which more accurately refers to copper or bronze. While "brass" is a common KJV translation, it's important to note that bronze is an alloy of copper and tin, known for its superior strength and durability compared to pure copper. This made it an ideal and robust material for anchoring heavy structures like the Tabernacle and its court in the shifting sands of the wilderness.

Practical Application

This verse, though seemingly about a minor detail, offers profound lessons for believers today:

  • Importance of "Small" Things: It reminds us that in God's kingdom, every detail matters. Even the seemingly insignificant "pins" were vital for the Tabernacle's function and stability, much like often-overlooked individuals or tasks are crucial for the body of Christ. God pays attention to the small things, and so should we.
  • God's Provision and Stability: Just as the brass pins provided stability to the Tabernacle, God provides the necessary foundational elements for our spiritual lives, ensuring our steadfastness amidst life's storms. We can trust in His meticulous care and the anchor of our hope in Christ. He is our ultimate security and foundation.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

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.
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