Exodus 37:28
And he made the staves of shittim wood, and overlaid them with gold.
Original Language Analysis
וַיַּ֥עַשׂ
And he made
H6213
וַיַּ֥עַשׂ
And he made
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 8
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הַבַּדִּ֖ים
the staves
H905
הַבַּדִּ֖ים
the staves
Strong's:
H905
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit
Historical Context
The staves for the incense altar were proportionally shorter than those for the ark or table, since the altar was smaller and lighter. Nevertheless, the same principle applied: gold-overlaid poles for carrying, demonstrating that even smaller, lighter sacred objects deserved golden excellence in handling.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the requirement for gold-overlaid staves teach about intercessors and prayer leaders needing Spirit-filled transformation?
- How does carrying the prayer altar requiring divine enablement challenge merely human approaches to facilitating others' prayers?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Staves of shittim wood overlaid with gold continue the incarnational pattern—humanity (wood) clothed in divinity (gold) for the purpose of carrying prayer's altar. This teaches that those who facilitate others' prayers (intercessors, pastors, prayer leaders) must themselves be transformed by divine grace. We can't carry others' prayers on merely human wisdom or natural eloquence—only gold-overlaid vessels can bear the golden altar. The ministry of intercession requires Spirit-filled instrumentality.