What number verse is Exodus 39:2 in the Bible?

Exodus 39:2 is the 2,667th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Exodus 39:2 sits at position 2,667.

Translation

King James Version

And he made the ephod of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.

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KJV (with Strong's)

And he made ^H6213 the ephod ^H646 of gold ^H2091, blue ^H8504, and purple ^H713, and scarlet ^{H8438 H8144}, and fine twined ^H7806 linen ^H8336.

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Complete Jewish Bible

He made the ritual vest of gold, of blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and of finely woven linen.

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Berean Standard Bible

Bezalel made the ephod of finely spun linen embroidered with gold, and with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn.

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American Standard Version

And he made the ephod of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.

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World English Bible Messianic

He made the ephod of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen.

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Geneva Bible (1599)

So he made the Ephod of gold, blewe silke, and purple, and skarlet, and fine twined linen.

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Young's Literal Translation

And he maketh the ephod, of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and twined linen,

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Exodus 39:2 meticulously details the primary materials used in the construction of the ephod, a sacred garment central to the high priest's attire for Tabernacle service. This verse, part of the larger narrative of the Tabernacle's construction, underscores the Israelites' precise adherence to God's divine blueprint, utilizing precious gold, vibrant blue, regal purple, striking scarlet, and pure fine twined linen. Each material carried profound symbolic significance, collectively representing the glory of God, the holiness required for worship, and the mediation performed before the Holy One of Israel.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Exodus 39:2 is situated within the concluding section of the book of Exodus, specifically chapters 35-40, which describe the meticulous execution of the Tabernacle's construction and the priestly garments. These chapters serve as the fulfillment of the divine instructions given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, as detailed in Exodus 25-31. The ephod, alongside the breastplate and other vestments, was a crucial component of the high priest's attire, designed to enable him to minister before the Lord and bear the names of the tribes of Israel into God's presence. The preceding verses in Exodus 39 describe the preparation of the blue, purple, and scarlet material by skilled artisans, while subsequent verses detail the intricate weaving and embellishment of the ephod itself, culminating in its presentation to Moses as a testament to the completed work, affirming the Israelites' faithful obedience to God's precise commands.
Historical & Cultural Context: The construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, including the priestly garments, was a monumental undertaking for the nascent nation of Israel in the wilderness. This portable sanctuary served as the dwelling place of God among His people, a tangible representation of His presence and a focal point for their worship. The materials specified for the ephod—gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen—were not arbitrarily chosen but held significant value and symbolism in the ancient Near East. Gold represented divine majesty, purity, and royalty, often associated with deity. Blue frequently symbolized the heavens and divine revelation, while purple was universally recognized as the color of royalty and authority, derived from rare and expensive dyes. Scarlet, often linked to life, sacrifice, and vitality, was also a color of distinction. Fine twined linen, known for its purity, strength, and brilliance, was a common material for sacred garments, emphasizing cleanliness and righteousness. The meticulous craftsmanship, empowered by divine inspiration given to individuals like Bezalel and Oholiab (Exodus 35:30-35), underscored the supreme importance and holiness of the work, reflecting the Israelites' understanding of God's exalted nature and the sacredness of approaching Him.
Key Themes: This verse contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent in Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the theme of Divine Prescription and Human Obedience, demonstrating the Israelites' faithful execution of God's detailed commands for the Tabernacle and its service, as initially outlined in Exodus 25-31. Secondly, the specific materials emphasize the Holiness and Glory of God, as the precious and vibrant elements reflect His majestic nature and the sacredness of His dwelling place among His people. Thirdly, it underscores the theme of Mediation and Atonement, as the ephod was a central garment for the high priest, who served as the primary mediator between God and Israel, bearing the names of the tribes into God's presence (as seen in Exodus 28:9-12). Finally, the verse subtly points to the Symbolism of Worship, where every detail, from material to color, was imbued with theological meaning, preparing the people for a deeper understanding of God's character and His redemptive plan.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Ephod (Hebrew, 'êphôwd, H646): This term refers to a distinctive priestly garment, specifically the high priest's shoulder-piece or vest. It was intricately woven and served as the foundation for the breastplate, which contained the Urim and Thummim used for divine consultation. The ephod was not merely clothing but a sacred vestment, symbolizing the high priest's consecrated role in mediating between God and His people and bearing their names before the Lord. Its construction, as detailed here and in Exodus 28:6-12, highlights its centrality to the priestly ministry and its unique design as a "girdle" or vestment.
Gold (Hebrew, zâhâb, H2091): From an unused root meaning "to shimmer," gold in the context of the Tabernacle and priestly garments consistently symbolizes divinity, purity, preciousness, and enduring value. Its inclusion in the ephod, often described as being "beaten into thin plates, and cut into wires" (Exodus 39:3), signifies the sacredness and divine origin of the priest's office and the holy nature of the worship performed. It points to God's unblemished glory and the eternal nature of His covenant, reflecting a material that does not tarnish or decay.
Fine twined linen (Hebrew, shêsh and shâzar, H8336): The phrase "fine twined linen" refers to a high-quality, bleached linen (H8336, shêsh) that was meticulously twisted or twined (H7806, shâzar) into strong, durable threads. This material, renowned for its brilliant whiteness, purity, and strength, was a staple for priestly garments and Tabernacle curtains. It symbolizes purity, righteousness, and holiness, representing the moral and ritual purity expected of those who minister in God's presence. The "twined" aspect suggests a strong, durable fabric, indicative of the enduring nature of the priestly covenant and the steadfastness required in service to God.

Verse Breakdown

"And he made the ephod": This phrase refers to Bezalel and Oholiab, along with the skilled craftsmen whom God had divinely gifted and commissioned to execute the detailed plans for the Tabernacle and its furnishings. It emphasizes the direct fulfillment of God's command, ensuring that this sacred garment, central to the high priest's ministry, was constructed precisely as instructed by divine revelation. The verb "made" (H6213, ‘âsâh) implies careful craftsmanship and faithful execution.
"[of] gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen": This is a precise enumeration of the five primary materials used in the ephod's construction. The order and combination of these materials are highly significant, each carrying profound symbolic weight. "Gold" was incorporated as threads woven into the fabric, while "blue" (H8504, tᵉkêleth), "purple" (H713, 'argâmân), and "scarlet" (H8438, tôwlâ‘ with H8144, shânîy) were dyed wools, and "fine twined linen" (H8336, shêsh with H7806, shâzar) formed the foundational fabric. This list underscores the richness, beauty, and symbolic depth of the garment, reflecting the glory and holiness of the God it served and the sacredness of the priestly office.

Literary Devices

The primary literary device at play in Exodus 39:2 is Symbolism. Each material and color listed—gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen—carries profound symbolic meaning, collectively communicating theological truths about God's nature, humanity's sin, and the path to atonement. Gold symbolizes divinity and purity; blue, the heavens and divine revelation; purple, royalty and authority; scarlet, life, vitality, and often sacrifice; and fine twined linen, purity and righteousness. Merism is also present in the comprehensive listing of materials, indicating that the ephod was made from all the specified components, leaving nothing out, thus emphasizing its complete and perfect construction according to divine command. The entire narrative of the Tabernacle's construction, including this verse, demonstrates Repetition of divine command and human obedience, reinforcing the overarching theme of God's meticulous design for worship and the Israelites' faithful adherence to it. This precise detailing also serves as a form of Emphasis, highlighting the extreme importance and sacredness of the priestly vestments.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Exodus 39:2, in its detailed enumeration of materials for the ephod, underscores the theological principles of divine sovereignty, the holiness of God, and the necessity of consecrated mediation. The specific colors and precious metals were not merely aesthetic choices but were imbued with spiritual significance, pointing to God's glory, His heavenly nature, His kingly authority, and the sacrificial blood necessary for atonement. The meticulous obedience of the craftsmen reflects the principle that worship must be offered according to God's precise revelation, emphasizing His perfect standards and the seriousness of approaching His holy presence. This verse, therefore, serves as a testament to the divine design of worship and the sacred role of the priesthood in bridging the gap between a holy God and a sinful people, foreshadowing a greater mediator to come.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

While the physical ephod and the Levitical priesthood are no longer central to our worship in the New Covenant, the principles embedded in Exodus 39:2 remain profoundly relevant for believers today. This verse challenges us to consider the quality of our own worship and service to God. Just as the ephod was crafted with the finest materials and utmost precision, so too should our spiritual offerings be of our very best—our time, talents, resources, and, most importantly, our hearts. The symbolism of the materials invites us to reflect on the multifaceted glory of God and the depth of His redemptive plan. We are called to live lives of purity (fine linen), acknowledging God's heavenly authority (blue and purple), recognizing the atoning power of Christ's blood (scarlet), and honoring His divine majesty (gold). Our service should be marked by intentionality, reverence, and a deep understanding of the holiness of the God we serve, remembering that He is worthy of our most excellent devotion and that true worship flows from a heart transformed by His grace.

Questions for Reflection

What does the meticulous detail in the construction of the ephod teach us about God's character and His expectations for worship?
How can we apply the principle of offering our "best" (symbolized by the precious materials) in our daily lives and spiritual practices today?
In what ways do the symbolic meanings of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine linen deepen your understanding of God's attributes or Christ's work?

FAQ

What was the purpose of the ephod in the high priest's attire?

Answer: The ephod was a central and highly symbolic garment worn by the high priest. Its primary purpose was to signify his consecrated role as mediator between God and the Israelites. It served as the foundation for the breastplate, which contained the Urim and Thummim, instruments used for discerning God's will (Exodus 28:15-30). Additionally, the ephod had two onyx stones on its shoulder pieces, engraved with the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, so the high priest would "bear their names before the Lord" (Exodus 28:9-12). Thus, it represented the priest's responsibility to represent the people before God and God's will to the people, acting as a visible sign of his divine appointment and the covenant relationship.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The ephod, with its rich materials and sacred function, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. The gold woven into the ephod, symbolizing divinity and purity, points to Christ's inherent deity and sinless perfection (Hebrews 4:15). The blue, representing heaven and divine revelation, foreshadows Christ's heavenly origin and His role as the ultimate revealer of God's truth, the very Word made flesh (John 1:18). Purple, the color of royalty, perfectly encapsulates Christ's kingship and supreme authority over all creation, as the "King of Kings and Lord of Lords" (Revelation 19:16). Scarlet, traditionally associated with blood and sacrifice, powerfully prefigures the atoning blood of Christ, shed on the cross for the forgiveness of sins, providing the ultimate sacrifice that the Tabernacle system merely anticipated (Hebrews 9:12). Finally, the fine twined linen, signifying purity and righteousness, speaks of Christ's perfect righteousness, which is imputed to believers, allowing us to stand holy and blameless before God (2 Corinthians 5:21). Unlike the Levitical high priests who wore the ephod and served temporarily, Christ's priesthood is eternal and unchangeable, and through His perfect sacrifice, He has opened a new and living way for us to draw near to God with confidence (Hebrews 10:19-22). He is the true and perfect High Priest, bearing His people not on His shoulders, but in His very heart, forever interceding for them.

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Commentary on Exodus 39 verses 1–31

1 ¶ And of the blue, and purple, and scarlet, they made cloths of service, to do service in the holy place, and made the holy garments for Aaron; as the LORD commanded Moses.

2 And he made the ephod of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.

3 And they did beat the gold into thin plates, and cut it into wires, to work it in the blue, and in the purple, and in the scarlet, and in the fine linen, with cunning work.

4 They made shoulderpieces for it, to couple it together: by the two edges was it coupled together.

5 And the curious girdle of his ephod, that was upon it, was of the same, according to the work thereof; of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen; as the LORD commanded Moses.

6 And they wrought onyx stones inclosed in ouches of gold, graven, as signets are graven, with the names of the children of Israel.

7 And he put them on the shoulders of the ephod, that they should be stones for a memorial to the children of Israel; as the LORD commanded Moses.

8 And he made the breastplate of cunning work, like the work of the ephod; of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.

9 It was foursquare; they made the breastplate double: a span was the length thereof, and a span the breadth thereof, being doubled.

10 And they set in it four rows of stones: the first row was a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle: this was the first row.

11 And the second row, an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond.

12 And the third row, a ligure, an agate, and an amethyst.

13 And the fourth row, a beryl, an onyx, and a jasper: they were inclosed in ouches of gold in their inclosings.

14 And the stones were according to the names of the children of Israel, twelve, according to their names, like the engravings of a signet, every one with his name, according to the twelve tribes.

15 And they made upon the breastplate chains at the ends, of wreathen work of pure gold.

16 And they made two ouches of gold, and two gold rings; and put the two rings in the two ends of the breastplate.

17 And they put the two wreathen chains of gold in the two rings on the ends of the breastplate.

18 And the two ends of the two wreathen chains they fastened in the two ouches, and put them on the shoulderpieces of the ephod, before it.

19 And they made two rings of gold, and put them on the two ends of the breastplate, upon the border of it, which was on the side of the ephod inward.

20 And they made two other golden rings, and put them on the two sides of the ephod underneath, toward the forepart of it, over against the other coupling thereof, above the curious girdle of the ephod.

21 And they did bind the breastplate by his rings unto the rings of the ephod with a lace of blue, that it might be above the curious girdle of the ephod, and that the breastplate might not be loosed from the ephod; as the LORD commanded Moses.

22 And he made the robe of the ephod of woven work, all of blue.

23 And there was an hole in the midst of the robe, as the hole of an habergeon, with a band round about the hole, that it should not rend.

24 And they made upon the hems of the robe pomegranates of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and twined linen.

25 And they made bells of pure gold, and put the bells between the pomegranates upon the hem of the robe, round about between the pomegranates;

26 A bell and a pomegranate, a bell and a pomegranate, round about the hem of the robe to minister in; as the LORD commanded Moses.

27 And they made coats of fine linen of woven work for Aaron, and for his sons,

28 And a mitre of fine linen, and goodly bonnets of fine linen, and linen breeches of fine twined linen,

29 And a girdle of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet, of needlework; as the LORD commanded Moses.

30 And they made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and wrote upon it a writing, like to the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD.

31 And they tied unto it a lace of blue, to fasten it on high upon the mitre; as the LORD commanded Moses.

In this account of the making of the priests' garments, according to the instructions given (ch. 28), we may observe, 1. That the priests' garments are called here clothes of service, Exo 39:1. Note, Those that wear robes of honour must look upon them as clothes of service; for from those upon whom honour is put service is expected. It is said of those that are arrayed in white robes that they are before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple, Rev 7:13, Rev 7:15. Holy garments were not made for men to sleep in, or to strut in, but to do service in; and then they are indeed for glory and beauty. The Son of man himself came not to be ministered unto, but to minister. 2. That all the six paragraphs here, which give a distinct account of the making of these holy garments, conclude with those words, as the Lord commanded Moses, Exo 39:5, Exo 39:7, Exo 39:21, Exo 39:26, Exo 39:29, Exo 39:31. The like is not in any of the foregoing accounts, as if in these, more than any other of the appurtenances of the tabernacle, they had a particular regard to the divine appointment, both for warrant and for direction. It is an intimation to all the Lord's ministers to make the word of God their rule in all their ministrations, and to act in observance of and obedience to the command of God. 3. That these garments, in conformity to the rest of the furniture of the tabernacle, were very rich and splendid; the church in its infancy was thus taught, thus pleased, with the rudiments of this world; but now under the gospel, which is the ministration of the Spirit, to affect and impose such pompous habits as the church of Rome does, under pretence of decency and instruction, is to betray the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free, and to entangle the church again in the bondage of those carnal ordinances which were imposed only till the time of reformation. 4. That they were all shadows of good things to come, but the substance is Christ, and the grace of the gospel; when therefore the substance has come, it is a jest to be fond of the shadow. (1.) Christ is our great high-priest; when he undertook the work of our redemption, he put on the clothes of service - he arrayed himself with the gifts and graces of the Spirit, which he received not by measure - girded himself with the curious girdle of resolution, to go through with his undertaking - charged himself with the curious girdle of resolution, to go through with his undertaking - charged himself with all God's spiritual Israel, bore them on his shoulders, carried them in his bosom, laid them near his heart, engraved them on the palms of his hands, and presented them in the breast-plate of judgment unto his Father. And (lastly) he crowned himself with holiness to the Lord, consecrating his whole undertaking to the honour of his Father's holiness: now consider how great this man is. (2.) True believers are spiritual priests. The clean linen with which all their clothes of service must be made is the righteousness of saints (Rev 19:8), and Holiness to the Lord must be so written upon their foreheads that all who converse with them may see, and say, that they bear the image of God's holiness, and are devoted to the praise of it.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–31. 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

Exodus 28:6
¶ And they shall make the ephod of gold, of blue, and of purple, of scarlet, and fine twined linen, with cunning work.
Exodus 28:12
And thou shalt put the two stones upon the shoulders of the ephod for stones of memorial unto the children of Israel: and Aaron shall bear their names before the LORD upon his two shoulders for a memorial.
Leviticus 8:7
And he put upon him the coat, and girded him with the girdle, and clothed him with the robe, and put the ephod upon him, and he girded him with the curious girdle of the ephod, and bound it unto him therewith.
Exodus 25:7
Onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate.