Exodus 39:3
And they did beat the gold into thin plates, and cut it into wires, to work it in the blue, and in the purple, and in the scarlet, and in the fine linen, with cunning work.
Exodus 39:3 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse describes the intricate process of creating the garments for the tabernacle according to God’s instructions. The artisans beat gold into thin plates and cut it into wires to embellish the garments with precious metals. The use of blue, purple, scarlet, and fine linen represents royalty and was specifically chosen as they were considered regal colors during ancient times. The phrase “cunning work†suggests that the artisans were skilled and talented, employing great care and attention to detail in their craftsmanship. This attention to detail was important as the garments were meant to be worn by those serving in the tabernacle, and were a symbol of their dedication and commitment to God.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Exodus, there is a mention of beating gold into thin plates and cutting it into wires to be worked with various colors and materials. The intricate process described here reflects the attention to detail and craftsmanship required in creating sacred items for the tabernacle. The use of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine linen all have symbolic significance in the Bible. Gold represents purity and divinity, while blue symbolizes heavenly grace. Purple is associated with royalty and wealth, scarlet with blood and sacrifice, and fine linen with righteousness and purity. The mention of 'cunning work' emphasizes the skill and expertise required to create these beautiful items for worship. This verse serves as a reminder of the reverence and care that should be taken in creating sacred objects for the service of God.
Exodus 39:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
And they did beat the gold into thin plates, and cut it into wires, to work it in the blue, and in the purple, and in the scarlet, and in the fine linen, the work of the skilful workman.
World English Bible
They beat the gold into thin plates, and cut it into wires, to work it in the blue, in the purple, in the scarlet, and in the fine linen, the work of the skillful workman.
Douay-Rheims
With embroidered work, and he cut thin plates of gold, and drew them small into threads, that they might be twisted with the woof of the foresaid colours,
Geneva Bible (1599)
And they did beate the golde into thinne plates, and cut it into wiers, to worke it in ye blewe silke and in the purple, and in the skarlet, and in the fine linen, with broydred worke.