What does Exodus 40:37 mean?
ESV: But if the cloud was not taken up, then they did not set out till the day that it was taken up.
NIV: but if the cloud did not lift, they did not set out—until the day it lifted.
NASB: but if the cloud was not taken up, then they did not set out until the day when it was taken up.
CSB: If the cloud was not taken up, they did not set out until the day it was taken up.
NLT: But if the cloud did not rise, they remained where they were until it lifted.
KJV: But if the cloud were not taken up, then they journeyed not till the day that it was taken up.
NKJV: But if the cloud was not taken up, then they did not journey till the day that it was taken up.
Verse Commentary:
Please see our chapter commentary on Exodus 40; verse-level content coming soon!
Verse Context:
Exodus 40:34–38 describes what happened when Israel finally completed the tabernacle (Exodus 40:33). God's glory comes down to the sanctuary (Exodus 25:8–9) in the form of a cloud. This cloud guides Israel by indicating when it is time to move on from their current camp. The cloud seems to be the same which guided Israel when they left Egyptian slavery (Exodus 13:21–22).
Chapter Summary:
Moses assembles the tabernacle according to the instructions from God (Exodus 25—31). This process is careful and methodical. Moses also consecrates Aaron and his sons into a permanent, hereditary priesthood. When building and ceremonies are complete, God brings down a cloud as His glory fills the tabernacle building. This cloud will guide Israel as they move towards the Promised Land.
Chapter Context:
Israel has completed all components needed to assemble the tabernacle (Exodus 35—39). When the work is finished and everything is in place, God's glory comes down in a cloud that guides the nation. The story of Israel's wandering continues in the book of Numbers, while the book of Leviticus records copious details from God's conversations with Moses (Exodus 24:18).
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.
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