Exodus 40:1

ยถ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

And the LORD {H3068} spake {H1696} unto Moses {H4872}, saying {H559},

ADONAI said to Moshe,

Then the LORD said to Moses,

And Jehovah spake unto Moses, saying,

Commentary

Exodus 40:1 serves as the pivotal opening to the final chapter of the book of Exodus, marking the culmination of extensive divine instructions concerning the Tabernacle. This brief verse sets the stage for the immediate implementation of God's blueprint for His dwelling place among the Israelites.

Context

After detailed specifications for building the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the garments for the priests (from Exodus chapter 25 through chapter 31), and the subsequent account of its construction (Exodus 35-39), this verse signifies the moment for action. The people of Israel, having been delivered from Egyptian bondage and having received the Law at Mount Sinai, are now prepared to establish the physical center of their worship and God's presence in their midst. This command comes at a crucial point in their wilderness journey, emphasizing God's continued guidance and initiative in their relationship.

Key Themes

  • Divine Initiative and Sovereignty: The phrase "And the LORD spake unto Moses" immediately highlights that all actions concerning the Tabernacle's erection are initiated and directed by God Himself. This underscores God's absolute authority and His active involvement in the lives of His people.
  • Obedience to Divine Command: Moses, as God's chosen leader, is once again the recipient of direct instructions, emphasizing the importance of heeding and executing God's specific commands. This sets a precedent for the entire community's obedience.
  • Preparation for God's Presence: This command is the final step before the glory of the LORD fills the Tabernacle, establishing it as the place where God would dwell among His people, a central theme of the entire book of Exodus.

Linguistic Insights

The opening Hebrew phrase, wayyedabber YHWH el-Moshe lemor (ื•ึทื™ึฐื“ึทื‘ึตึผืจ ื™ึฐื”ื•ึธื” ืึถืœึพืžึนืฉึถืื” ืœึตึผืืžึนืจ), is a recurring formula throughout the Pentateuch. YHWH (often rendered "the LORD" in KJV) is the sacred, personal covenant name of God, emphasizing His relationship with Israel. The verb wayyedabber, meaning "and He spoke," denotes a direct, authoritative, and often detailed communication. This familiar opening underscores the divine origin and binding nature of the instructions that follow.

Practical Application

Exodus 40:1 reminds us that God is a God of order and purpose. Just as He meticulously planned the Tabernacle and commanded its precise erection, He has a plan for our lives and for His church. This verse encourages us to be attentive to God's word and to act in obedience to His instructions. It also points to the enduring truth that God desires to dwell among His people, a desire ultimately fulfilled in Christ (John 1:14) and continually realized in the church, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16).

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Cross-References

No cross-references found.

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