Exodus Chapter 39 — The Completion of the Tabernacle
The Israelites finish crafting the priestly garments and complete all components of the Tabernacle. Moses inspects the finished work and blesses the people for their obedience.
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Notable Verses
Exodus 39:30
“They made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and wrote on it an inscription, like the engravings of a signet: 'HOLY TO THE LORD'.”
This inscription signifies the high priest's total consecration to God's service.
Exodus 39:43
“Moses saw all the work, and behold, they had done it as the LORD had commanded. They had done so; and Moses blessed them.”
This verse records the formal inspection and approval of the Tabernacle project.
Chapter Summary
Exodus 39 details the final stages of the Tabernacle's construction, specifically the creation of the priestly garments for Aaron and his sons. The craftsmen used blue, purple, and scarlet yarns and fine linen to create the ephod, the breastplate with its twelve precious stones representing the tribes of Israel, the blue robe with gold bells and pomegranates, and the holy crown inscribed with 'HOLY TO THE LORD.' Once the garments were finished, the entire project of the Tabernacle was brought to completion. The people presented every piece—the tent, furniture, utensils, and coverings—to Moses for inspection. Moses observed that they had followed the Lord's instructions precisely as commanded. Seeing their faithfulness and the quality of the work, Moses blessed the congregation of Israel, marking the end of the manufacturing phase.
Frequently Asked Questions
The breastplate contained four rows of three stones each: ruby, topaz, beryl, turquoise, sapphire, emerald, jacinth, agate, amethyst, chrysolite, onyx, and jasper. Each stone was engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes of Israel.
The gold plate, worn on the turban, was engraved with the words 'HOLY TO THE LORD.' It served as a sign of the high priest's dedicated status before God.
Gold bells and pomegranates made of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn were attached to the hem of the high priest's robe. These items were functional and decorative elements of the garments used for ministering in the holy place.
Study Note
The phrase 'as the Lord commanded Moses' occurs seven times in this chapter, emphasizing the people's exact obedience to the divine architectural plan.
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