Exodus 37:4
And he made 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 7
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
בַּדֵּ֖י
staves
H905
בַּדֵּ֖י
staves
Strong's:
H905
Word #:
2 of 7
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 were approximately 15 feet long (allowing two men per pole to carry the ark), made from lightweight yet strong acacia and overlaid with gold. They remained permanently inserted, even when the ark rested, symbolizing Israel's pilgrim status.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the permanent presence of staves in the ark's rings teach about maintaining readiness to follow God's leading?
- How does overlaying even the carrying poles with gold illustrate that all aspects of God's work deserve excellence?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Staves (poles, בַּדִּים, baddim) of shittim wood overlaid with gold enabled transporting the ark—again combining humanity (wood) with divinity (gold). These staves remained permanently in the rings (1 Kings 8:8), signifying perpetual readiness for God to move. The church must maintain similar readiness—not settling into comfortable institutionalism but remaining available for God's leading. The staves overlaid with gold teach that even means of carrying God's presence must reflect His glory.