Exodus 36:21

Authorized King James Version

The length of a board was ten cubits, and the breadth of a board one cubit and a half.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עֶ֥שֶׂר
was ten
ten (as an accumulation to the extent of the digits)
#2
הָֽאַמָּ֔ה
cubit
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
#3
אֹ֣רֶךְ
The length
length
#4
הַקֶּ֥רֶשׁ
of a board
a slab or plank; by implication, a deck of a ship
#5
הָֽאַמָּ֔ה
cubit
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
#6
וַֽחֲצִ֣י
and a half
the half or middle
#7
הָֽאַמָּ֔ה
cubit
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
#8
רֹ֖חַב
and the breadth
width (literally or figuratively)
#9
הַקֶּ֥רֶשׁ
of a board
a slab or plank; by implication, a deck of a ship
#10
הָֽאֶחָֽד׃
one
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

Related Resources

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

People

Study Resources