Exodus 36:18
And he made fifty taches of brass to couple the tent together, that it might be one.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּ֛עַשׂ
And he made
H6213
וַיַּ֛עַשׂ
And he made
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 9
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
נְחֹ֖שֶׁת
of brass
H5178
נְחֹ֖שֶׁת
of brass
Strong's:
H5178
Word #:
3 of 9
copper, hence, something made of that metal, i.e., coin, a fetter; figuratively, base (as compared with gold or silver)
לְחַבֵּ֥ר
to couple
H2266
לְחַבֵּ֥ר
to couple
Strong's:
H2266
Word #:
5 of 9
to join (literally or figuratively); specifically (by means of spells) to fascinate
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
6 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Historical Context
Bronze (copper-tin alloy) was more durable and weather-resistant than gold, making it practical for clasps exposed to wind and weather. Its use here demonstrates intentional material selection based on function—gold for sacred beauty, bronze for practical protection.
Questions for Reflection
- What is the theological significance of using gold clasps within and bronze clasps without?
- How does the combination of gold (grace/glory) and bronze (judgment/endurance) illustrate the balance of divine attributes?
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Analysis & Commentary
Fifty clasps of brass (bronze, נְחֹשֶׁת, nechoshet) couple the goat-hair curtains, contrasting with gold clasps for inner curtains (v. 13). Bronze represents judgment and endurance (the bronze altar received sin-offerings), appropriate for outer protection facing harsh elements. The progression from gold within to bronze without teaches that God's dwelling requires both intrinsic glory (gold) and external strength (bronze)—beauty protected by durability, grace upheld by justice.