Exodus 39:2

Authorized King James Version

And he made the ephod of gold, blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיַּ֖עַשׂ

H6213

And he made

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הָֽאֵפֹ֑ד

H646

the ephod

a girdle; specifically the ephod or highpriest's shoulder-piece; also generally, an image

זָהָ֗ב

H2091

of gold

gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky

תְּכֵ֧לֶת

H8504

blue

the cerulean mussel, i.e., the color (violet) obtained therefrom or stuff dyed therewith

וְאַרְגָּמָ֛ן

H713

and purple

purple (the color or the dyed stuff)

וְתוֹלַ֥עַת

H8438

and scarlet

a maggot (as voracious); specifically (often with ellipsis of h8144) the crimson-grub, but used only (in this connection) of the color from it, and cl

שָׁנִ֖י

H8144

crimson, properly, the insect or its color, also stuff dyed with it

וְשֵׁ֥שׁ

H8336

linen

bleached stuff, i.e., white linen or (by analogy) marble

#10

מָשְׁזָֽר׃

H7806

and fine twined

to twist (a thread of straw)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The historical context of the period of Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1440-1400 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

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