Exodus 37:2
And he overlaid it with pure gold within and without, and made a crown of gold to it round about.
And he overlaid {H6823} it with pure {H2889} gold {H2091} within {H1004} and without {H2351}, and made {H6213} a crown {H2213} of gold {H2091} to it round about {H5439}.
He overlaid it with pure gold inside and outside and put a molding of gold for it around the top.
He overlaid it with pure gold, both inside and out, and made a gold molding around it.
And he overlaid it with pure gold within and without, and made a crown of gold to it round about.
Cross-References
-
Exodus 30:3 (2 votes)
And thou shalt overlay it with pure gold, the top thereof, and the sides thereof round about, and the horns thereof; and thou shalt make unto it a crown of gold round about.
Commentary
Exodus 37:2 describes the meticulous craftsmanship of the Ark of the Covenant, specifically how it was overlaid with gold, executed by Bezalel under divine inspiration. This verse is part of the larger narrative detailing the construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, following the precise instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai.
Context
This verse is situated within the section of Exodus (chapters 35-40) that recounts the actual building of the Tabernacle and its components, mirroring the detailed commands God issued earlier (Exodus 25-31). Following the call for skilled craftsmen and the generous contributions of the Israelites, Bezalel and Oholiab, filled with the Spirit of God, began the work. The Ark of the Covenant was the first and most central item described in the construction process, symbolizing God's very presence among His people. The description here reaffirms the importance and sanctity of this most holy object, often referred to as the throne of God on earth.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "pure gold" is from the Hebrew *zahab tahor* (*ืึธืึธื ืึธืืึนืจ*), which emphasizes the highest quality and unblemished nature of the metal. This was not merely for aesthetic appeal but served as a profound symbol of divine perfection and the uncorrupted nature of God. The "crown" is *zer* (*ืึตืจ*), which refers to a molding or border. While often translated as "crown," it was a specific type of architectural or decorative border that surrounded the top edge of the Ark, separating the body from the Mercy Seat and reinforcing the Ark's sacred and royal significance.
Significance and Application
Exodus 37:2 offers timeless insights into our relationship with God. The meticulous craftsmanship and precious materials used for the Ark highlight that God deserves our absolute best. This principle extends to our worship, service, and daily lives; we are called to offer God our "pure gold"โour highest quality efforts, talents, and resources, given with a pure heart.
The Ark, with its golden glory, served as a tangible representation of God's holy presence among His people. This foreshadows the ultimate manifestation of God's presence in Jesus Christ, who is the true embodiment of God's glory and holiness, dwelling among us. Just as the Ark was overlaid "within and without," our devotion to God should be comprehensive, reflecting both inner purity of heart and outward actions of obedience and worship. Our lives, like the Ark, should be consecrated to God, reflecting His glory and holiness.
Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.