Exodus 28:6

Authorized King James Version

And they shall make the ephod of gold, of blue, and of purple, of scarlet, and fine twined linen, with cunning work.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְעָשׂ֖וּ

H6213

And they shall make

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הָֽאֵפֹ֑ד

H646

the ephod

a girdle; specifically the ephod or highpriest's shoulder-piece; also generally, an image

זָ֠הָב

H2091

of gold

gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky

תְּכֵ֨לֶת

H8504

of blue

the cerulean mussel, i.e., the color (violet) obtained therefrom or stuff dyed therewith

וְאַרְגָּמָ֜ן

H713

and of purple

purple (the color or the dyed stuff)

תּוֹלַ֧עַת

H8438

a maggot (as voracious); specifically (often with ellipsis of h8144) the crimson-grub, but used only (in this connection) of the color from it, and cl

שָׁנִ֛י

H8144

of scarlet

crimson, properly, the insect or its color, also stuff dyed with it

וְשֵׁ֥שׁ

H8336

linen

bleached stuff, i.e., white linen or (by analogy) marble

#10

מָשְׁזָ֖ר

H7806

and fine twined

to twist (a thread of straw)

#11

מַֽעֲשֵׂ֥ה

H4639

work

an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property

#12

חֹשֵֽׁב׃

H2803

with cunning

properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Exodus.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Moses