Exodus 35:3
Ye shall kindle no fire throughout your habitations upon the sabbath day.
Original Language Analysis
לֹֽא
H3808
לֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 7
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
בְּכֹ֖ל
H3605
בְּכֹ֖ל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
מֹשְׁבֹֽתֵיכֶ֑ם
throughout your habitations
H4186
מֹשְׁבֹֽתֵיכֶ֑ם
throughout your habitations
Strong's:
H4186
Word #:
5 of 7
a seat; figuratively, a site; abstractly, a session; by extension an abode (the place or the time); by implication, population
Cross References
Exodus 16:23And he said unto them, This is that which the LORD hath said, To morrow is the rest of the holy sabbath unto the LORD: bake that which ye will bake to day, and seethe that ye will seethe; and that which remaineth over lay up for you to be kept until the morning.Exodus 12:16And in the first day there shall be an holy convocation, and in the seventh day there shall be an holy convocation to you; no manner of work shall be done in them, save that which every man must eat, that only may be done of you.
Historical Context
Fire-kindling was essential for ancient metalworking, which would be extensive in creating the tabernacle's gold, silver, and bronze furnishings. This specific prohibition prevented craftsmen from justifying Sabbath work as 'necessary for holy purposes.'
Questions for Reflection
- How does the specific prohibition of fire-kindling illustrate God's concern for both the spirit and letter of His law?
- What does it mean that even work for God's house must submit to God's pattern of rest?
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Analysis & Commentary
The prohibition against kindling fire on the Sabbath (לֹא־תְבַעֲרוּ אֵשׁ, lo-teva'aru esh) specifically addresses the metalworking and cooking required for tabernacle construction. This detail demonstrates that God's commands extend to specifics—even necessary and holy work must cease on the seventh day. The fire prohibition became foundational in Jewish halakha, showing how God's holiness permeates every aspect of life, including the mundane act of fire-making.