Exodus 40:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 40:17
17 And it came to pass in the first month in the second year, on the first day of the month, that the tabernacle was reared up.
Chapter Context
Exodus 40 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, prayer, wisdom. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 40:17
17 And it came to pass in the first month in the second year, on the first day of the month, that the tabernacle was reared up.
Analysis
The tabernacle's erection 'on the first day of the first month in the second year' marks a new epoch. The specific date (יוֹם הַחֹדֶשׁ הָרִאשׁוֹן, yom hachodesh harishon) nearly one year after Sinai (Exodus 19:1) teaches that God's dwelling among His people follows redemption (Passover, first month) and revelation (law giving). The timing demonstrates divine patience—after the golden calf interruption (ch 32), grace restored covenant relationship. This 'first day' inauguration prefigures Christ's resurrection inaugurating the new covenant on 'the first day of the week' (John 20:1).
Historical Context
The date's precision (first day of first month, second year) demonstrates God's sovereignty over redemptive history's timeline. The first month (Abib/Nisan) remained Israel's sacred calendar beginning, commemorating Exodus. The tabernacle's completion within one year showed remarkable diligence despite the golden calf interruption.
Reflection
- What does God specifying the exact date for tabernacle erection teach about His sovereignty over history?
- How does the 'first day' dedication parallel Christ's resurrection inauguration of the new covenant era?
Cross-References
- Temple: Numbers 7:1