Exodus 35:32

Authorized King James Version

And to devise curious works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְלַחְשֹׁ֖ב
And to devise
properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou
#2
מַֽחַשָׁבֹ֑ת
curious works
a contrivance, i.e., (concretely) a texture, machine, or (abstractly) intention, plan (whether bad, a plot; or good, advice)
#3
לַֽעֲשֹׂ֛ת
to work
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#4
בַּזָּהָ֥ב
in gold
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
#5
וּבַכֶּ֖סֶף
and in silver
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
#6
וּבַנְּחֹֽשֶׁת׃
and in brass
copper, hence, something made of that metal, i.e., coin, a fetter; figuratively, base (as compared with gold or silver)

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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Exodus Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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