Chú giải Kinh Thánh

The narrative of what relates to the construction of the sanctuary is now resumed from Exodus 31:18.

See Exodus 31:12.

This prohibition is here first distinctly expressed, but it is implied Exodus 16:23.

See Exodus 26:1-37. It has been already observed Exodus 25:10 that in the instructions for making the sanctuary, the ark of the covenant, as the principal thing belonging to it, is mentioned first; but in the practical order of the work, as it is here arranged, the tabernacle with its tent and covering come first.

The covering - This is not the same as the covering of Exodus 35:11, which denotes the covering of the tent (see Exodus 26:14): the word is used here for the entrance curtains (see Exodus 26:36; Exodus 27:16).

The word "tabernacle" משׁכן mı̂shkān is here used for the full name, the tabernacle of the tent of meeting. It denotes the entire structure.

The cloths of service to do service in the holy place - Rather; the garments of office to do service in the sanctuary, etc. See Exodus 31:10.

Bracelets - Rather, brooches.

Earrings - The Hebrew word signifies a ring, either for the nose (see Genesis 24:22) or for the ear Exodus 32:2; Genesis 35:4. That ear-rings, not nose-rings, are here meant is confirmed by what we know of early Hebrew and Egyptian customs.

Rings - Signet rings.

Tablets - More probably, armlets. It is most likely that all the articles mentioned in this verse were of gold. The indulgence of private luxury was thus given up for the honor of the Lord. Compare Exodus 30:18 note.