Exodus 25:13 - Printer Friendly

ESV: You shall make poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold.

NIV: Then make poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold.

NASB: And you shall make poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold.

CSB: Make poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold.

NLT: Make poles from acacia wood, and overlay them with gold.

KJV: And thou shalt make staves of shittim wood, and overlay them with gold.

NKJV: And you shall make poles of acacia wood, and overlay them with gold.

Just like the main body of the ark (Exodus 25:10), its carrying poles are to be made of acacia wood. This is a strong, durable material perfect for these uses. The ark itself is a large box, also carrying stone tablets (Exodus 24:12; 25:16). These poles are the only approved way to transport the ark (Exodus 25:14; Numbers 4:15). Centuries later, this would be demonstrated in a tragic incident (1 Chronicles 15:13–15). The poles are not even meant to be taken out of their rings (Exodus 25:15).

Israel is to "overlay" the poles with gold. This refers to "gilding:" covering a surface with a thin sheet of gold. Gold can be hammered into sheets much thinner than a human hair. Covering the poles would require skill, but not an enormous amount of metal.

Exodus 25:10–22 records the design of the ark of the covenant. This is a wooden box with square ends and rectangular sides overlaid with gold. Rings will be used to hold poles for carrying the ark. This box will store the written laws given by God to Israel (Exodus 24:12). The ark's lid features two golden angels facing each other with outstretched, covering wings. This "mercy seat" will be the focal point of God's interactions with Israel. Since the angels are not being worshipped, they are not the prohibited "graven images" of the second commandment (Exodus 20:4–6). Scripture never credits the ark as a source of supernatural power.

Israelites are to contribute precious metals, cloth, oils, and other resources to create a sanctuary for worship and sacrifice. These will be used to form various sacred objects. Among these are the renowned ark of the covenant, a table for consecrated bread, and a lampstand with seven ornate lamps. These will be kept in the most sacred parts of the sanctuary. Upcoming chapters will focus on an elaborate tent which will serve as a portable temple (Exodus 26—28).

The Lord has given the foundations of His covenant to Israel (Exodus 20—23) and they have affirmed it (Exodus 24). Now God gives Moses detailed instructions for a system of worship. This begins with designs for a sacred container—the ark of the covenant—as well as a table and lampstand. These will be kept in the "tabernacle:" an ornate tent used as a portable temple for Israel (Exodus 26—28).

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.

Accessed 8/21/2025 5:05:18 PM