Exodus 38:19

Authorized King James Version

And their pillars were four, and their sockets of brass four; their hooks of silver, and the overlaying of their chapiters and their fillets of silver.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְעַמֻּֽדֵיהֶם֙
And their pillars
a column (as standing); also a stand, i.e., platform
#2
אַרְבָּעָ֖ה
four
four
#3
וְאַדְנֵיהֶ֥ם
and their sockets
a basis (of a building, a column, etc.)
#4
אַרְבָּעָ֖ה
four
four
#5
נְחֹ֑שֶׁת
of brass
copper, hence, something made of that metal, i.e., coin, a fetter; figuratively, base (as compared with gold or silver)
#6
וָֽוֵיהֶ֣ם
their hooks
a hook (the name of the sixth hebrew letter)
#7
כָּֽסֶף׃
of silver
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
#8
וְצִפּ֧וּי
and the overlaying
encasement (with metal)
#9
רָֽאשֵׁיהֶ֛ם
of their chapiters
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
#10
וַחֲשֻֽׁקֵיהֶ֖ם
and their fillets
attached, i.e., a fence-rail or rod connecting the posts or pillars
#11
כָּֽסֶף׃
of silver
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Exodus.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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