Exodus 39:43 - Bible Verse Meaning and Commentary

Exodus 39:43 states: "And Moses did look upon all the work of the tabernacle and the coverings thereof, and the boards thereof, and all the vessels thereof, and all the service of them: and he blessed them."

Understanding the Context

This verse falls within a broader narrative detailing the construction of the Tabernacle, which served as a mobile dwelling place for God's presence among the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. The verse emphasizes Moses' assessment and blessing of the final work completed by skilled artisans, specifically Bezalel and Oholiab, as described in previous chapters. This moment signifies the fulfillment of God's instructions for the construction of a sacred space dedicated to worship and communion with Him.

Bible Verse Explanation

Moses represents leadership and accountability as he inspects the completed work, which signifies a culmination of divine instruction and human responsibility. By blessing the work, he acknowledges both the artisans' efforts and the importance of the Tabernacle as a means of God's presence with His people.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry highlights that Moses took careful note of every part of the work, ensuring that it adhered to God's specifications. His blessing reflects God's approval over the work and serves as an essential aspect of leadership in acknowledging the contributions of others.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes emphasizes that the "blessing" represents not just a casual remark but a formal acknowledgment of the significance and divine purpose of the Tabernacle. It is an expression of gratitude that God is dwelling among His people.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke points out that this verse illustrates the completion of a sacred task, one that fulfills God’s plans. The blessing can also be seen as a transition where the focus moves from construction to divine service, illustrating the importance of worship in Israel's community life.

Bible Study Insights

Studying this verse allows readers to understand the importance of meticulous care in spiritual responsibilities. It offers profound lessons on leadership, accountability, and the necessity of divine guidance when undertaking significant tasks. Moreover, the act of blessing signifies a formal recognition of God's role in these tasks, encouraging believers to be mindful of God's presence in their lives.

Cross References

• Exodus 25:8-9: God's instruction to build a Tabernacle.
• 1 Chronicles 28:19: David's recognition of God’s plans for the temple.
• Hebrews 8:5: The heavenly reality of the earthly Tabernacle.

Application of the Verse

For modern believers, the message is clear: take time to recognize the work and contributions of others in ministry and personal lives. Acknowledging and blessing the efforts of those who work alongside us in faith can foster communal relationships and a shared sense of purpose.

Conclusion

Exodus 39:43 serves as an essential reminder of the collaborative effort in fulfilling God’s commandments and the importance of recognizing His presence through our endeavors. Engaging with this verse enriches our understanding of how to effectively lead and encourage one another in our spiritual journeys.