Exodus 38:31
And the sockets of the court round about, and the sockets of the court gate, and all the pins of the tabernacle, and all the pins of the court round about.
Original Language Analysis
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
1 of 17
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הֶֽחָצֵ֖ר
of the court
H2691
הֶֽחָצֵ֖ר
of the court
Strong's:
H2691
Word #:
3 of 17
a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)
סָבִֽיב׃
round about
H5439
סָבִֽיב׃
round about
Strong's:
H5439
Word #:
4 of 17
(as noun) a circle, neighbour, or environs; but chiefly (as adverb, with or without preposition) around
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 17
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
הֶֽחָצֵ֖ר
of the court
H2691
הֶֽחָצֵ֖ר
of the court
Strong's:
H2691
Word #:
8 of 17
a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)
וְאֵ֨ת
H853
וְאֵ֨ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
9 of 17
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
10 of 17
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֛ן
of the tabernacle
H4908
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֛ן
of the tabernacle
Strong's:
H4908
Word #:
12 of 17
a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w
וְאֶת
H853
וְאֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
13 of 17
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
14 of 17
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Historical Context
This comprehensive accounting (vv. 21-31) provided public record of material usage, preventing both misuse and false accusation. The transparency demonstrated respect for givers' trust and God's provision. This model of financial accountability became pattern for Israel's religious institutions and should inform Christian stewardship today.
Questions for Reflection
- What does comprehensive accounting and transparent reporting teach about stewardship requirements for those handling sacred resources?
- How does intentional material allocation (gold/glory, silver/foundation, bronze/service) challenge random or preference-based resource distribution in ministry?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The detailed accounting's conclusion demonstrates faithful stewardship and transparent reporting. Every talent, every shekel, every piece of gold, silver, and bronze is accounted for—teaching that those entrusted with sacred resources owe complete transparency to both God and community. This standard challenges contemporary ministry to maintain careful records, clear reporting, and faithful stewardship. The specific designation of materials to specific purposes (gold for interior glory, silver for foundations, bronze for exterior service) teaches intentional allocation according to divine design rather than human preference.