Exodus 37:1
And Bezaleel made the ark of shittim wood: two cubits and a half was the length of it, and a cubit and a half the breadth of it, and a cubit and a half the height of it:
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּ֧עַשׂ
made
H6213
וַיַּ֧עַשׂ
made
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 15
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 15
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
וְאַמָּ֥ה
of it and a cubit
H520
וְאַמָּ֥ה
of it and a cubit
Strong's:
H520
Word #:
7 of 15
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)
וְאַמָּ֥ה
of it and a cubit
H520
וְאַמָּ֥ה
of it and a cubit
Strong's:
H520
Word #:
10 of 15
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)
Historical Context
Bezaleel's personal construction of the ark (while delegating other tasks) demonstrates the ark's supreme importance. The ark was Israel's most sacred object, representing God's throne on earth. It would eventually rest in the temple's Most Holy Place (1 Kings 8:6-9).
Questions for Reflection
- What does beginning tabernacle construction with the ark teach about proper priorities in building God's house?
- How does the ark, containing God's law and serving as His throne, prefigure Christ as the fulfillment of the law and Lord of all?
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Analysis & Commentary
Bezaleel personally constructs the ark (אֲרוֹן, aron)—the most sacred object mentioned first, emphasizing proper priorities. The ark represented God's throne, His presence, and His covenant—the foundation of Israel's worship. Beginning with the ark teaches that constructing God's house must start with God Himself, not peripheral elements. The ark contained the law tablets, showing that God's word is central to His dwelling. Christ is our ark—containing divine truth, our mercy seat (Romans 3:25), the meeting place of God and humanity.