Exodus 38:5

KJV

And he cast four rings for the four ends of the grate of brass, [to be] places for the staves.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he cast {H3332} four {H702} rings {H2885} for the four {H702} ends {H7099} of the grate {H4345} of brass {H5178}, to be places {H1004} for the staves {H905}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He cast four rings for the four ends of the bronze grate to hold the poles.

Berean Standard Bible

At the four corners of the bronze grate he cast four rings as holders for the poles.

American Standard Version

And he cast four rings for the four ends of the grating of brass, to be places for the staves.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 38:5 meticulously details the fabrication of four bronze rings for the altar of burnt offering's grate, specifically designed to serve as receptacles for the staves used in its transport. This seemingly minor architectural instruction highlights the divine emphasis on precision in worship, the essential portability of God's presence among His people, and the faithful obedience required in executing His sacred blueprint for the Tabernacle, ensuring the central place of atonement could accompany Israel on their nomadic journey.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 38:5 is situated within the extensive narrative block of [Exodus 35-40](/exodus/35 "Exodus 35-40 - Construction of the Tabernacle"), which meticulously chronicles the actual construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings. This section follows the detailed divine instructions previously given to Moses on Mount Sinai in [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25-31 - Instructions for the Tabernacle"). Specifically, the verse describes a component of the altar of burnt offering, whose construction spans from [Exodus 38:1](/exodus/38-1 "Exodus 38:1 - Construction of the Altar of Burnt Offering") to [Exodus 38:7](/exodus/38-7 "Exodus 38:7 - Completion of the Altar"). The "grate of brass" refers to the bronze network placed inside the altar, facilitating the collection of ashes from sacrifices. The divine specifications for this grate, including its rings and staves, were initially outlined in [Exodus 27:4-7](/exodus/27-4-7 "Exodus 27:4-7 - Instructions for the Altar's Grate and Staves"). The narrative consistently emphasizes the faithful and precise execution of God's blueprint by the divinely gifted artisans, particularly Bezalel and Aholiab, underscoring the importance of meticulous adherence to the divine mandate for His sanctuary.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Tabernacle occurred during Israel's forty-year sojourn in the wilderness, a period defined by their nomadic existence. This transient lifestyle necessitated that every major component of the Tabernacle, including the substantial altar of burnt offering, be designed for efficient portability. The rings and staves were not mere practical accessories but indispensable elements that enabled the movement of God's dwelling place. This inherent mobility underscored the dynamic nature of God's presence with His people; He was not confined to a static temple but journeyed with them, serving as a tangible sign of His covenant faithfulness and guidance. The meticulous instructions for handling and transporting these sacred articles, such as those for the [Ark of the Covenant](/exodus/25-13 "Exodus 25:13 - Staves for the Ark of the Covenant"), also highlight the profound reverence and sanctity required in approaching and carrying anything associated with the divine presence. This context reinforces the idea that God's dwelling was both accessible and holy, mobile yet orderly, reflecting His sovereign control over their journey and their worship.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Precision and Order**, demonstrating God's meticulous attention to every detail of His dwelling place and worship, leaving nothing to human improvisation. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **God's Presence and Portability**, emphasizing that the God of Israel was not a localized deity but one who actively journeyed with His people, making His presence and the means of atonement continually accessible. The design of the Tabernacle, as seen in the rings and staves, ensured that the central place of sacrifice could move with the migrating community, as outlined in the instructions for the [journeying of the Tabernacle](/numbers/10-11-28 "Numbers 10:11-28 - Israel's Journeying Order"). Thirdly, the verse exemplifies the theme of **Obedience and Faithful Craftsmanship**. The fact that these details are recorded as executed reflects the Israelites' faithful adherence to God's commands, particularly the skilled artisans like Bezalel and Aholiab, who were "filled with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship" ([Exodus 35:31](/exodus/35-31 "Exodus 35:31 - Bezalel's Divine Skill")). This meticulous obedience was crucial for the Tabernacle to function as a true representation of God's heavenly pattern ([Hebrews 8:5](/hebrews/8-5 "Hebrews 8:5 - Pattern of Heavenly Things")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Cast (Hebrew, _yâtsaq'_):** This verb (H3332) signifies the process of pouring out molten metal to form an object, by implication, to melt or cast as metal. It denotes a deliberate and precise metallurgical act, transforming raw material into a specific, divinely ordained shape. The use of "cast" here emphasizes the intentionality and skill involved in creating the rings according to God's exact specifications.
* **Rings (Hebrew, _ṭabbaʻath'_):** This noun (H2885) refers to a circular object, specifically a ring. While it can denote a signet ring for sealing, in this context, it refers to a ring of any kind, specifically designed to function as a fastener or holder. The "four rings" indicate a symmetrical design for balanced carrying, consistent with their use on other Tabernacle furnishings for portability.
* **Staves (Hebrew, _bad'_):** This noun (H905) refers to a bar for carrying, a staff, or a pole. In the context of the Tabernacle, these were long, sturdy poles inserted into the rings of sacred furniture, enabling the Levites to transport the heavy items without directly touching them. The staves were essential for the Tabernacle's mobility and for maintaining the ritual purity of the holy objects.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he cast four rings":** The subject "he" refers to Bezalel, the chief craftsman, or the skilled artisans working under his direction, who were divinely empowered for the task (cf. [Exodus 35:30-35](/exodus/35-30-35 "Exodus 35:30-35 - Bezalel and Aholiab, Divinely Gifted Craftsmen")). The act of "casting" implies a deliberate and precise metallurgical process, transforming raw bronze into perfectly formed rings according to God's exact specifications. The number "four" signifies completeness and direction, aligning with the four corners of the altar.
* **"for the four ends of the grate of brass":** This clause specifies the exact placement of the rings – at each of the four corners or extremities of the bronze grating. This precise location was critical for balanced carrying and stability. The "grate of brass" itself was a key component of the altar, indicating that the rings were attached to this internal structure, not the outer frame of the altar, ensuring the grate's stability during transport.
* **"[to be] places for the staves":** This clause explicitly states the functional purpose of the rings: they were designed as receptacles for the carrying poles. This functional design was paramount for the altar's portability, enabling the Levites to lift and transport the heavy altar of burnt offering as Israel moved through the wilderness. It underscores the practical foresight embedded within God's meticulously detailed architectural plan.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 38:5, though a technical description, subtly employs several literary devices that enhance its theological significance. Most prominent is **Precision**, evident in the exact numbers ("four rings," "four ends") and specified materials ("grate of brass"). This meticulous detail mirrors the divine character, emphasizing God's absolute orderliness and His demand for exactitude in all matters pertaining to His worship. The verse also utilizes **Functional Symbolism**, where the physical components (rings, staves) are not merely utilitarian but symbolize the dynamic, portable nature of God's presence. The altar, the central place of atonement, was designed to move with the people, signifying that God's mercy and provision were not static but accessible throughout their journey. Furthermore, there is an element of **Repetition** of the number "four," reinforcing the idea of completeness and the comprehensive nature of the divine design. The emphasis on the "grate of brass" through **Synecdoche** (a part representing the whole, or vice-versa) allows this critical component to stand in for the altar's overall function and transport readiness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 38:5, though seemingly a minor detail in the Tabernacle's construction, profoundly illustrates God's meticulous nature and the intentionality behind every aspect of His dwelling place. The divine blueprint for the Tabernacle, down to the rings for carrying poles, underscores that God cares deeply about order, precision, and the practical means by which His presence is facilitated among His people. This portability of the altar, the central place of sacrifice, signifies that access to God's atonement was not confined to a static location but was available to Israel throughout their journey, a testament to God's continuous provision and faithfulness. The faithful execution of these instructions by the craftsmen also highlights the importance of obedience and the dedication of God-given skills to His glory, demonstrating that even seemingly small acts of obedience contribute to God's grand redemptive plan.

* [Hebrews 8:5](/hebrews/8-5 "Hebrews 8:5 - Pattern of Heavenly Things"): "Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount."
* [Acts 17:24](/acts/17-24 "Acts 17:24 - God Does Not Dwell in Temples Made with Hands"): "God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands."
* [1 Samuel 15:22](/1_samuel/15-22 "1 Samuel 15:22 - Obedience Better Than Sacrifice"): "And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The intricate details of Exodus 38:5 invite us to reflect deeply on the nature of God and our faithful response to His call. Just as God meticulously designed every component of the Tabernacle, down to the rings for portability, we are reminded that He is a God of order who cares about the seemingly small details of our lives and our worship. This verse challenges us to consider whether our own lives and ministries are designed for "portability" – are we ready to carry God's presence and the message of the Gospel wherever He leads, unhindered by static traditions, personal comfort zones, or fear of inconvenience? The altar, the place of sacrifice, was always ready to move, signifying that the means of reconciliation should always be accessible and dynamic. Furthermore, the faithful craftsmanship of Bezalel and Aholiab, who executed God's precise instructions with divine skill, serves as a powerful model for our own stewardship of God-given talents. Are we using our skills, no matter how mundane or extraordinary they may seem, with the same precision, dedication, and obedience for God's glory? This verse encourages us to embrace a dynamic faith, always prepared to follow God's leading, knowing that even the smallest acts of obedience contribute significantly to His grand redemptive design.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail in the Tabernacle's construction inform our understanding of God's character and His expectations for our worship and service?**
* **In what practical ways are we, as believers, called to embody the "portability" of God's presence and the message of reconciliation in our daily lives and interactions?**
* **What "craftsmanship" or unique skills has God given you, and how can you dedicate them to His glory with the same precision and obedience demonstrated by Bezalel and Aholiab?**

### FAQ
**Why were the rings and staves so important for the Tabernacle furniture?**

Answer: The rings and staves were critically important because they enabled the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, including the heavy altar of burnt offering, to be transported during Israel's nomadic journey through the wilderness. Without these components, the large and weighty items could not have been moved according to divine protocol. The specific design ensured that the holy objects were handled reverently, without direct human touch, by inserting the staves through the rings. This system underscored the practical necessity of a mobile sanctuary for a traveling people, allowing God's presence and the means of atonement to accompany them wherever they went, as mandated in passages like [Exodus 25:13-15](/exodus/25-13-15 "Exodus 25:13-15 - Staves for the Ark of the Covenant").

**What is the significance of "brass" (bronze) in the Tabernacle's construction?**

Answer: In the Tabernacle, "brass" (more accurately, bronze) held significant symbolic meaning, particularly in relation to judgment and sacrifice. The altar of burnt offering, the laver, and their associated implements were predominantly made of bronze. Bronze is durable and resistant to fire, making it eminently suitable for the altar where sacrifices were consumed by fire. Theologically, bronze is often associated with God's judgment against sin, as seen in the bronze serpent in [Numbers 21:9](/numbers/21-9 "Numbers 21:9 - The Bronze Serpent"), which brought healing from judgment for those who looked upon it. Thus, the bronze grate and rings of the altar signify that the place where sin was atoned for was also the place where divine judgment was met, powerfully pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice that would bear the full weight of God's wrath against sin.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 38:5, with its focus on the altar's rings and staves, points profoundly to Christ in its emphasis on sacrifice, access, and the portability of God's presence. The brazen altar, where daily sacrifices were offered for the atonement of sins, is a vivid type of Jesus Christ, who became the ultimate, once-for-all sacrifice for humanity's sin on the cross (cf. [Hebrews 9:26](/hebrews/9-26 "Hebrews 9:26 - Christ's One Sacrifice")). The rings and staves, designed to ensure the altar's constant readiness for movement, foreshadow the New Covenant reality where God's presence is no longer confined to a physical structure or a static geographical location. Through Christ's atoning work, the Spirit of God now indwells believers, making each one a "temple of the Holy Ghost" ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit")). This means that the "altar" of God's presence and the "sacrifice" of reconciliation are now perpetually portable, carried within the hearts of His people wherever they go, fulfilling and expanding upon the nomadic nature of the Old Testament Tabernacle. Christ Himself is our ultimate access to God, our High Priest who has passed through the heavens, enabling us to draw near with confidence to the throne of grace ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence")). He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), making the reality of atonement and God's dwelling infinitely more accessible, personal, and universally available than the physical Tabernacle could ever convey.

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

Exodus 27:4

And thou shalt make for it a grate of network [of] brass; and upon the net shalt thou make four brasen rings in the four corners thereof.