Exodus 40:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 40:1
1 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Chapter Context
Exodus 40 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of fellowship, faith, discipleship. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-38: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 40:1
1 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Analysis
The LORD spake unto Moses (וַיְדַבֵּר יְהוָה אֶל־מֹשֶׁה, vayedaber YHWH el-Mosheh)—the verb דָּבַר (davar, to speak) introduces divine instruction for erecting the completed tabernacle. This formulaic opening appears 38 times in Exodus, establishing Moses' unique prophetic authority as the one to whom YHWH speaks directly (Numbers 12:6-8).
Exodus 40 brings the book full circle: it began with Israel enslaved in Egypt (1:1-14) and ends with God's glory dwelling among them (40:34-38). The simple phrase saying (לֵּאמֹר, lemor) introduces God's detailed commands for the tabernacle's dedication on the first day of the first month—exactly one year after the first Passover. This marks Israel's transformation from liberated slaves to a nation hosting God's presence.
Historical Context
This occurred in 1445 BC, approximately nine months after the exodus and three months after Moses received the Law at Sinai. The tabernacle construction demonstrates Israel's restoration after the golden calf apostasy—God's willingness to dwell among a redeemed but imperfect people.
Reflection
- What does God's continued communication with Moses after Israel's golden calf sin teach about His faithfulness?
- How should we prepare to meet with God, knowing He desires to dwell with His people?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord