Exodus 31:3 - Printer Friendly

ESV: and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship,

NIV: and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—

NASB: And I have filled him with the Spirit of God in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all kinds of craftsmanship,

CSB: I have filled him with God’s Spirit, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in every craft

NLT: I have filled him with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts.

KJV: And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,

NKJV: And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,

Exodus 31:1–11 assigns two lead craftsmen to make sacred objects for Israel's sanctuary (Exodus 25:8–9). Chapters 25 through 30 were mostly designs for these objects. Bezalel seems to be the most proficient; he is also specifically filled with God's Spirit. Oholiab is appointed by God to work with Bezalel. Other skilled artisans will assist these two in making the tabernacle and its accessories.

God assigns Bezalel and Oholiab as master craftsmen to build the tabernacle and its accessories. They will work with other skilled laborers to make each item precisely as the Lord has commanded (Exodus 25—29). God completes His initial declaration of the covenant with a reminder about the Sabbath. Insulting the Sabbath command is punishable by death. As promised (Exodus 24:12), Moses is given two stone tablets recording the covenant.

For several chapters (Exodus 25—29), God has explained how Israel is to prepare His sanctuary (Exodus 25:8–9). Objects like the ark (Exodus 25:10), menorah (Exodus 25:31), and altars (Exodus 27:1; 30:1) will require great skill to make. The men charged with this task are not only highly skilled but specifically appointed and equipped by God. Moses brings two tablets from Sinai; these record the covenant. When he returns to the camp, Moses finds Israel deep in idolatry (Exodus 32:1). In a rage, he will smash these original tablets (Exodus 32:19).

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 8/17/2025 2:49:12 AM