Exodus 40:38

For the cloud of the LORD [was] upon the tabernacle by day, and fire was on it by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys.

For the cloud {H6051} of the LORD {H3068} was upon the tabernacle {H4908} by day {H3119}, and fire {H784} was on it by night {H3915}, in the sight {H5869} of all the house {H1004} of Israel {H3478}, throughout all their journeys {H4550}.

For the cloud of ADONAI was above the tabernacle during the day, and fire was in [the cloud] at night, so that all the house of Isra'el could see it throughout all their travels.

For the cloud of the LORD was over the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel through all their journeys.

For the cloud of Jehovah was upon the tabernacle by day, and there was fire therein by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys.

Commentary

Exodus 40:38 concludes the book of Exodus by emphasizing the continuous, visible presence of God with the Israelites after the Tabernacle's completion. This verse serves as a powerful summary of God's faithfulness and guidance throughout their wilderness journey.

Context

This verse immediately follows the detailed account of the Tabernacle's construction and setup, culminating in the glory of the LORD filling it (Exodus 40:34). The Tabernacle, meaning "dwelling place" (Hebrew: mishkan), was God's sacred tent where He symbolically resided among His people. Exodus 40:38 confirms that this divine presence was not fleeting but a constant, tangible reality for "all the house of Israel" as they embarked on their nomadic life in the wilderness. This visible sign had been promised earlier as a guide for their travels (Exodus 13:21).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Presence: The cloud by day and fire by night were clear manifestations of God's immanent presence, often referred to as the Shekinah glory, dwelling among His people. It was a constant reminder that God was with them, leading and protecting.
  • Divine Guidance: The movement of the cloud dictated Israel's journeys. When the cloud lifted, they moved; when it settled, they camped (Numbers 9:17). This symbolized God's direct and sovereign leading in their lives.
  • Divine Protection: The cloud provided shade from the desert sun by day, and the fire offered light and warmth in the darkness of night, also serving as a visual barrier against enemies (Exodus 14:20).
  • God's Faithfulness: The phrase "throughout all their journeys" underscores God's unwavering commitment to His covenant people. His presence was not conditional or intermittent but steadfast and enduring, demonstrating His eternal faithfulness (2 Timothy 2:13).
  • Visibility and Assurance: The fact that it was "in the sight of all the house of Israel" meant this divine sign was universally acknowledged, providing collective assurance and a focal point for their worship and trust.

Linguistic Insights

The "cloud of the LORD" and "fire" are tangible, visible symbols of God's kavod (glory). While God is Spirit, He chose to manifest His presence in ways understandable and perceptible to humanity. The Hebrew word mishkan for Tabernacle literally means "dwelling place," emphasizing God's desire to dwell with His people.

Practical Application

Exodus 40:38 offers timeless truths for believers today. Just as God physically guided and protected Israel, He continues to guide and protect His people through the Holy Spirit and His Word (John 14:26). We may not see a literal cloud or fire, but we can trust in His constant presence, divine guidance, and unwavering faithfulness in our own "journeys" through life. This verse encourages us to look to God as our ultimate guide and source of security, knowing that He is always with us, just as He promised to never leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 78:14 (9 votes)

    In the daytime also he led them with a cloud, and all the night with a light of fire.

  • Numbers 9:15 (8 votes)

    ¶ And on the day that the tabernacle was reared up the cloud covered the tabernacle, [namely], the tent of the testimony: and at even there was upon the tabernacle as it were the appearance of fire, until the morning.

  • Exodus 13:21 (7 votes)

    And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night:

  • Isaiah 4:5 (6 votes)

    And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory [shall be] a defence.

  • Isaiah 4:6 (6 votes)

    And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the daytime from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.

  • Psalms 105:39 (5 votes)

    He spread a cloud for a covering; and fire to give light in the night.