Exodus 25:12 kjv

And thou shalt cast four rings of gold for it, and put them in the four corners thereof; and two rings shall be in the one side of it, and two rings in the other side of it.

Exodus 25:12 nkjv

You shall cast four rings of gold for it, and put them in its four corners; two rings shall be on one side, and two rings on the other side.

Exodus 25:12 niv

Cast four gold rings for it and fasten them to its four feet, with two rings on one side and two rings on the other.

Exodus 25:12 esv

You shall cast four rings of gold for it and put them on its four feet, two rings on the one side of it, and two rings on the other side of it.

Exodus 25:12 nlt

Cast four gold rings and attach them to its four feet, two rings on each side.

Exodus 25 verses

Exodus 25 12 Meaning

This verse meticulously outlines a foundational structural detail for the Ark of the Covenant, commanding the creation and precise placement of four rings made of pure gold on its four corners. These rings, strategically positioned two on each of the Ark's longer sides, were designed exclusively for the insertion of poles, thereby facilitating the Ark's transport without direct human touch. This divine instruction underscores the sanctity and supreme holiness of God's presence, requiring specific, divinely ordained methods for its movement.

Exodus 25 12 Context

Exodus chapter 25 marks a dramatic shift in the narrative, moving from the giving of the moral and civil laws at Sinai to the intricate, divine blueprints for the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings. Following God's covenant with Israel and the affirmation of the people (Ex 24), Moses ascends the mountain to receive specific instructions for building a sanctuary where God can "dwell among them." The Ark of the Covenant, detailed immediately at the beginning of chapter 25, is presented as the supreme article of the Tabernacle. It serves as God's "throne" or "footstool," the focal point of His manifest presence. Verse 12 provides a precise design requirement for this holy Ark, detailing its gold rings which are indispensable for its intended mobility. Historically and culturally, while portable shrines existed in the Ancient Near East, none rivaled the Ark in its divine origin, exclusive materials, and strict regulations surrounding its handling and construction, emphasizing its unique sacredness and purpose within the covenant relationship.

Exodus 25 12 Word analysis

• "And you shall cast" (וְיָצַקְתָּ - v'yatzaqtā): From the Hebrew root yatsaq, meaning "to pour, to mold, to cast metal." This is a precise metallurgical term, indicating that the rings were not simply attached but meticulously formed through a process of pouring molten gold. This implies an intrinsic and durable connection, suggesting a permanent feature essential to the Ark's nature rather than a mere appendage. It emphasizes craftsmanship dedicated to God's standards.

• "four rings" (אַרְבַּע טַבְּעֹת - arba' taba'ot):

  • Arba': The number "four" often carries symbolism of completeness or universality in biblical thought (e.g., four directions, four corners of the earth). Here, it ensures balanced support from all sides, critical for moving an object of supreme importance and sacredness.
  • Taba'ot: Refers to circular bands or "rings." These were specifically functional elements, designed for the insertion of poles, rather than being merely decorative. Their utility was paramount to the Ark's intended purpose of portability.

• "of gold" (זָהָב - zahav): The purest, most precious, and most incorruptible metal. Its consistent use in the construction of the Ark and many Tabernacle elements signifies divine glory, purity, holiness, and supreme value. Gold reflects the unblemished character of God and the preciousness of His presence. It speaks of divine glory that is unchangeable and eternal.

• "for it" (לּוֹ - lo): This simple pronoun clarifies that the rings are integral to the "ark" (the aron) previously mentioned in Exodus 25:10. Their purpose is specific to this one object.

• "and put them on its four corners" (וְנָתַתָּ עַל-אַרְבַּע פַּאֲמֹתָיו - v'natata al-arba' pe'amotav):

  • v'natata: A general verb meaning "and you shall give, place, or put."
  • pe'amotav: From pe'ah, meaning "corner, side, or edge." This specification ensures precise, strategic placement at the very angles of the Ark, crucial for balanced and stable carrying, enabling the poles to function effectively without interference.

• "and two rings shall be on one side of it and two rings on the other side of it" (וּשְׁתֵּי הַטַּבָּעֹת עַל-צַלְעוֹ הָאֶחָת וּשְׁתֵּי הַטַּבָּעֹת עַל-צַלְעוֹ הַשֵּׁנִית):

  • Shtei taba'ot: "Two rings." This emphasizes the symmetrical pairing.
  • Tzela': "Side," specifically a "rib" or "side." This precise instruction dictates that the two pairs of rings were to be placed on the two long sides of the Ark. This meticulous detail ensures that two long poles would pass through the rings, allowing the Ark to be carried safely and reverently in a fixed, symmetrical manner by the Levites, preventing any casual handling or accidental touching of its surface.

• Words-group analysis:

  • "cast four rings of gold for it": This phrase highlights divine precision in materials and quantity, emphasizing that every component for God's dwelling was of the highest purity and perfectly suited for its purpose. The casting method suggests inherent strength and a permanent fixture.
  • "put them on its four corners": This group of words emphasizes the strategic and symmetrical placement essential for the Ark's unique function as a portable sacred object. The corners provide stability and distribute the weight evenly, reflecting God's orderliness.
  • "two rings shall be on one side of it and two rings on the other side of it": This detail further refines the symmetry and confirms the method of carrying via long poles passing lengthwise. It reinforces God's meticulous care for the handling of His presence, allowing for proper ceremonial procession and transport without profane contact.

Exodus 25 12 Bonus section

• The instruction for the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the Ark, are given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai before the Golden Calf incident (Ex 32). This sequence underscores God's prior intent and gracious provision for dwelling with His people, even in anticipation of their disobedience. It reveals God's persistent desire for relationship.
• The fact that these rings were to be cast rather than merely attached by simpler means implies a permanent, unbreakable bond, ensuring that the Ark could never be moved improperly by human hands directly gripping it, but only by means of the designated poles. This symbolizes the inviolable sanctity of God's dwelling place.
• The Ark's journey, made possible by these rings, highlights the concept of God's dynamic, moving presence among His people – not static or bound to a single place like pagan deities often were. He goes before them (Num 10:33), signifying divine guidance, protection, and active participation in their lives and battles.

Exodus 25 12 Commentary

Exodus 25:12, despite its technical nature, carries profound theological weight. It serves as the foundation for the Ark's essential mobility, allowing God to literally "move with" His people throughout their wilderness wanderings and into the promised land. The use of pure gold speaks to the invaluable holiness and unblemished character of God's presence. The intricate details of "four rings," placed "on its four corners," "two rings on each side," underscore divine precision and order in everything pertaining to sacred worship. This design was not arbitrary but profoundly purposeful: it prevented direct human contact with the Ark, thereby preserving its sanctity and guarding against accidental desecration, lessons tragically underscored later by the consequences for Nadab and Abihu (Lev 10) and Uzzah (2 Sam 6). This meticulousness reminds believers today of the profound reverence due to God and His commands. It demonstrates that God's presence, while intimate, remains holy and must be approached on His terms. This principle extends to how believers "carry" the presence of God in their lives through the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 3:16) – with holiness, reverence, and according to divine instructions, living lives worthy of His dwelling within them.