Exodus 38:8

KJV

And he made the laver [of] brass, and the foot of it [of] brass, of the lookingglasses of [the women] assembling, which assembled [at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he made {H6213} the laver {H3595} of brass {H5178}, and the foot {H3653} of it of brass {H5178}, of the lookingglasses {H4759} of the women assembling {H6633}, which assembled {H6633} at the door {H6607} of the tabernacle {H168} of the congregation {H4150}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He made the basin of bronze with its base of bronze from the mirrors of the women serving at the entrance to the tent of meeting.

Berean Standard Bible

Next he made the bronze basin and its stand from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting.

American Standard Version

And he made the laver of brass, and the base thereof of brass, of the mirrors of the ministering women that ministered at the door of the tent of meeting.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 38:8 meticulously details the construction of the bronze laver and its accompanying stand, uniquely fashioned from the polished metal mirrors generously donated by women who faithfully assembled and served at the entrance of the Tabernacle of the congregation. This verse not only highlights the precise execution of God's architectural plans for His sacred dwelling but also profoundly underscores the personal sacrifice, communal devotion, and inclusive participation that characterized the building of the Tabernacle, transforming instruments of personal vanity into vessels for divine service and essential priestly purification.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the latter portion of the Book of Exodus, specifically within the detailed account of the Tabernacle's construction (chapters 35-40). Following the initial call for freewill offerings in [Exodus 35](/exodus/35 "Exodus 35 - The Call for Offerings and Construction Begins") and the divine appointment of skilled artisans like Bezalel and Oholiab, these chapters meticulously describe the actual fabrication of each Tabernacle component. The laver, as first commanded in [Exodus 30:18-21](/exodus/30-18 "Exodus 30:18-21 - The Command for the Laver"), was a crucial piece of furniture positioned between the altar of burnt offering and the entrance to the Holy Place. Its primary function was to provide water for the priests to wash their hands and feet, a mandatory ritual purification before they ministered in the Tabernacle. This placement and function underscore the absolute necessity of purity for those who would approach and serve a holy God, forming a vital step in the prescribed worship sequence.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, mirrors were not made of glass but were highly polished discs of bronze or copper, often intricately decorated and considered valuable personal possessions, especially for women. They were symbols of beauty, status, and self-adornment. The act of these women donating such prized items for the Tabernacle's construction speaks volumes about their deep commitment and willingness to sacrifice for the worship of Yahweh. The phrase "women assembling... at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation" suggests a dedicated group, possibly involved in prayer, worship, or specific service roles associated with the sacred space, even before its full completion. This indicates an active and recognized role for women in the spiritual life of the Israelite community, contributing not only materially but also through their devotional presence and service. This echoes other biblical instances where women played significant roles in supporting spiritual endeavors, such as the women who ministered to Jesus in [Luke 8:2-3](/luke/8-2-3 "Luke 8:2-3 - Women Ministering to Jesus").
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 38:8 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book and broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **sacrificial giving and wholehearted devotion**, demonstrating that true worship involves relinquishing personal treasures for God's glory. The transformation of objects of vanity into instruments of purification profoundly illustrates the theme of **consecration and holiness**, emphasizing that all aspects of life, even personal possessions, can be redeemed and dedicated to sacred purposes. The verse also underscores the theme of **inclusive participation in God's work**, showcasing that every member of the community, regardless of social standing or gender, has a vital and valued role to play in the building and maintenance of God's dwelling place. This communal effort is central to the establishment of Israel as God's holy nation, set apart for His purposes, a concept woven throughout the Law and prophetic literature, such as in [Leviticus 11:44](/leviticus/11-44 "Leviticus 11:44 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Laver (Hebrew, _kîyôwr'_):** This term (H3595) refers to a basin or washing vessel. Derived from a root suggesting something round or excavated, it denotes a vessel designed for cleansing. In the Tabernacle context, its purpose for ritual ablutions underscores the absolute necessity of purity for those who would approach and serve a holy God. Its construction from mirrors adds a profound layer of symbolic meaning to its function, transforming instruments of self-reflection into a means of communal purification.
* **Lookingglasses (Hebrew, _marʼâh'_):** This word (H4759), the feminine form of a term for "vision" or "sight," literally means "mirror" or "speculum." These were highly polished metal surfaces used for personal reflection and adornment. The transformation of these objects, previously used for personal vanity, into a basin for priestly purification is a powerful symbol of consecration and the redirection of personal resources towards divine service. It signifies a profound shift from self-focus to God-focus, where personal beauty is sacrificed for communal holiness.
* **Assembling (Hebrew, _tsâbâʼ'_):** This verb (H6633) is a primitive root meaning "to mass (an army or servants)," "to fight," "to perform," "to muster," or "to wait upon." When applied to the women, it suggests a disciplined, organized, and dedicated service or "muster" at the Tabernacle door. This implies an active, recognized, and perhaps even formal role for these women in the Tabernacle's devotional life, highlighting their commitment and contribution beyond mere material donation, akin to a spiritual service or watch.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he made the laver [of] brass, and the foot of it [of] brass":** This clause establishes the primary object being constructed—the laver and its accompanying base—and specifies its material as brass (or bronze). Brass was a common, durable, and valuable metal in ancient times, often associated with strength, judgment, and endurance in biblical symbolism. Its use here indicates the robustness required for a vessel of constant ritual cleansing, emphasizing the enduring nature of God's demand for purity and the substantiality of the Tabernacle's components.
* **"of the lookingglasses of [the women] assembling":** This is the most striking and unique detail of the verse, specifying the extraordinary source of the brass: the polished metal mirrors donated by women. This highlights an exceptional act of personal sacrifice and devotion. Mirrors were prized personal items, and their donation for a communal, sacred purpose demonstrates a profound level of willingness to part with cherished possessions for God's glory. It also subtly reveals the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the craftsmen, who were able to melt down and repurpose these items into a functional and sacred vessel.
* **"which assembled [at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation":** This phrase identifies the specific group of women who made this unique contribution. Their "assembly" at the Tabernacle door suggests a consistent and dedicated presence, perhaps engaging in prayer, intercession, or other forms of service related to the sacred space. This detail underscores their active and recognized participation in the spiritual life of the community and their deep personal investment in the Tabernacle project, affirming the value of their collective and individual commitment and presence in the worship of God.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 38:8 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound theological message. **Symbolism** is paramount, as the transformation of "lookingglasses" (symbols of self-reflection, personal adornment, and vanity) into a "laver" (a vessel for purification and communal service) powerfully illustrates the consecration of the mundane for sacred purposes. This signifies a spiritual metamorphosis where personal focus is surrendered for divine glory and corporate holiness. The brass itself, often associated with judgment and strength, reinforces the serious and enduring nature of the purification required for approaching God. There is also a clear element of **Metonymy**, where the "lookingglasses" stand in for the women's personal sacrifice and devotion, representing their willing hearts and consecrated lives. Furthermore, the specific mention of these women and their unique contribution serves as a powerful **Synecdoche**, where a part (the women's mirrors and their assembly) represents the whole (the collective, willing offerings and diverse contributions of the entire Israelite community for the Tabernacle's construction), emphasizing that every contribution, regardless of its perceived value or source, was vital and honored by God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 38:8 is rich with theological significance, primarily emphasizing the themes of sacrificial giving, the necessity of purity for divine service, and the inclusive nature of God's call to participate in His work. The willing donation of valuable personal items, particularly mirrors, for the construction of the laver underscores that true devotion often requires relinquishing what is personally cherished for the greater glory of God. This act of giving transforms objects of self-focus into instruments of communal holiness, illustrating that our resources, even our very selves, are to be consecrated for God's purposes. The laver itself perpetually reminds us that access to God and effective service in His presence demand ritual and spiritual cleansing, a foundational principle throughout biblical theology that points to the deeper need for inner purity.

* [Exodus 30:18-21](/exodus/30-18-21 "Exodus 30:18-21 - The Command and Purpose of the Laver")
* [1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession and Cleansing")
* [2 Corinthians 3:18](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformation by Beholding the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The poignant story of the laver made from the women's mirrors offers a profound challenge and encouragement for believers today. It calls us to examine our own "lookingglasses"—those things we hold dear, that reflect our self-image, our comforts, our personal aspirations, or our material possessions. Are we willing to surrender these, to see them melted down and repurposed for God's kingdom work and the good of His people? This act is not about deprivation but about profound transformation, allowing God to take what we value and use it for a higher, holier purpose, becoming instruments of His grace and purity in the world. Just as the priests needed to wash at the laver before ministering, we are continually reminded of our ongoing need for spiritual cleansing and repentance, acknowledging that our service to God must flow from a heart made pure and continually purified by His grace. Furthermore, this verse celebrates the often-unseen contributions of all who serve, affirming that every act of willing devotion, regardless of gender, social standing, or perceived significance, is invaluable in God's eyes and essential for the building up of His spiritual house, the church.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "lookingglasses" (personal possessions, comforts, or aspirations) might God be calling me to "melt down" and consecrate for His service today?**
* **How does the symbolism of the laver, made from mirrors, challenge my understanding of self-focus versus God-focus in my spiritual life and daily decisions?**
* **In what ways can I actively participate in the "assembly" at the "door of the tabernacle" (the church or community of faith), offering my unique gifts, presence, and resources for God's glory?**
* **How does the necessity of priestly washing at the laver inform my daily pursuit of spiritual purity and my approach to serving God in a world that often compromises holiness?**

### FAQ

**What were "lookingglasses" in ancient Israel?**

Answer: In ancient Israel, "lookingglasses" (Hebrew: *marʼâh*) were not made of glass as we know it today. Instead, they were highly polished discs or plates of metal, typically bronze or copper, which served as mirrors. These were often valuable personal possessions, sometimes intricately crafted, and used for personal grooming and adornment. The act of donating such items for the Tabernacle's construction represented a significant personal sacrifice and a deep commitment to God's work, transforming objects of personal vanity into instruments for divine service and communal purification.

**What was the purpose of the laver in the Tabernacle?**

Answer: The laver was a large basin filled with water, placed between the altar of burnt offering and the entrance to the Holy Place. Its primary purpose, as commanded in [Exodus 30:18-21](/exodus/30-18-21 "Exodus 30:18-21 - The Command for the Laver"), was for the priests to wash their hands and feet before ministering in the Tabernacle or approaching the altar. This ritual washing was essential for ceremonial purity, ensuring that the priests were clean and consecrated before performing their sacred duties in the presence of a holy God. It symbolized the constant need for cleansing before engaging in divine service.

**Who were the "women assembling at the door of the tabernacle"?**

Answer: These were women who gathered regularly and devotedly at the entrance of the Tabernacle of the congregation. While the exact nature of their "assembly" (Hebrew: *tsâbâʼ*) is not fully detailed, it implies a dedicated group involved in prayer, intercession, or specific forms of service related to the sacred space. Their willingness to donate their valuable mirrors for the laver highlights their deep spiritual commitment and active participation in the community's religious life, demonstrating that contributions from all members of the community, regardless of gender, were valued and integral to God's work. This willingness to contribute is a recurring theme in the Tabernacle's construction, as seen in other acts of willing contribution throughout [Exodus 35](/exodus/35 "Exodus 35 - Willing Offerings for the Tabernacle").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The bronze laver, meticulously fashioned from the consecrated mirrors of devoted women, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The laver symbolized the necessary purification for sinful humanity to approach a holy God. In the Old Covenant, this cleansing was external and ritualistic, a constant reminder of human impurity and the need for repeated washing. However, Christ's singular, perfect sacrifice on the cross provides the true and ultimate purification, making it possible for us to draw near to God 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"), whose precious blood cleanses us from all sin ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing by the Blood of Jesus")). The transformation of mirrors (objects of self-reflection and vanity) into a laver (a vessel for cleansing and service) beautifully prefigures the spiritual transformation believers undergo in Christ. We are called to die to self and live for Him ([Galatians 2:20](/galatians/2-20 "Galatians 2:20 - Crucified with Christ")), allowing our lives, once focused on personal desires, to become instruments of God's glory and vessels for His purposes. Through Christ, we are not merely ritually cleansed but spiritually regenerated by the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit ([Titus 3:5](/titus/3-5 "Titus 3:5 - Washing of Regeneration")), given direct and confident access to the Father through His shed blood ([Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Confidence to Enter the Holy Place")), and empowered by the Holy Spirit to live lives of true holiness and dedicated service, reflecting His glory with unveiled faces ([2 Corinthians 3:18](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformation by Beholding the Lord")).

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

Luke 2:37

And she [was] a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served [God] with fastings and prayers night and day.

1 Samuel 2:22

Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel; and how they lay with the women that assembled [at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.

Exodus 40:7

And thou shalt set the laver between the tent of the congregation and the altar, and shalt put water therein.

1 Timothy 5:5

Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day.

Titus 3:5

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

Titus 3:6

Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;

Psalms 26:6

¶ I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O LORD: