What does Exodus 37:14 mean?
ESV: Close to the frame were the rings, as holders for the poles to carry the table.
NIV: The rings were put close to the rim to hold the poles used in carrying the table.
NASB: Close by the rim were the rings, the holders for the poles to carry the table.
CSB: The rings were next to the frame as holders for the poles to carry the table.
NLT: The rings were attached near the border to hold the poles that were used to carry the table.
KJV: Over against the border were the rings, the places for the staves to bear the table.
NKJV: The rings were close to the frame, as holders for the poles to bear the table.
Verse Commentary:
Verse Context:
Exodus 37:10–16 shows how Bezalel (Exodus 35:30) carefully follows the instructions recorded in Exodus 25:23–29. These are designs for a ceremonial table used in the tabernacle (Exodus 25:8–9). The table will hold loaves of consecrated bread (Exodus 25:30).
Chapter Summary:
Bezalel (Exodus 35:30) follows God's instructions to make multiple items for the tabernacle. Most of these are described in Exodus 25. He constructs the ark, table, lampstand, and altar of incense. All of these will be kept inside the main tabernacle building. The text deliberately reproduces the phrasing of God's earlier command to stress Israel's exact obedience to His will.
Chapter Context:
Moses relays God's instructions for building the tabernacle (Exodus 25—31). The people respond generously (Exodus 35) and follow the Lord's directions exactly (Exodus 36). This pattern continues in chapter 37 as Bezalel (Exodus 35:30) completes designs mostly seen in chapter 25. Other items are depicted in chapter 30. The next two chapters (Exodus 38—39) are more of the same: describing the Israelites carrying out God's design as it was given.
Book Summary:
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 9/14/2025 10:17:06 AM
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