Exodus 30:5

Authorized King James Version

And thou shalt make the staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with gold.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ
And thou shalt make
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
הַבַּדִּ֖ים
the staves
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit
#4
עֲצֵ֣י
wood
a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)
#5
שִׁטִּ֑ים
of shittim
the acacia (from its scourging thorns)
#6
וְצִפִּיתָ֥
and overlay
to sheet over (especially with metal)
#7
אֹתָ֖ם
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
זָהָֽב׃
them with gold
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The historical context of the period of Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1440-1400 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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