Exodus 37 12

Exodus 37:12 kjv

Also he made thereunto a border of an handbreadth round about; and made a crown of gold for the border thereof round about.

Exodus 37:12 nkjv

Also he made a frame of a handbreadth all around it, and made a molding of gold for the frame all around it.

Exodus 37:12 niv

They also made around it a rim a handbreadth wide and put a gold molding on the rim.

Exodus 37:12 esv

And he made a rim around it a handbreadth wide, and made a molding of gold around the rim.

Exodus 37:12 nlt

He decorated it with a 3-inch border all around, and he ran a gold molding along the border.

Exodus 37 verses

Exodus 37 12 Meaning

Exodus 37:12 describes the construction of the Table of Showbread, specifically focusing on the precise details of the rings attached to it. These rings, made of pure gold and meticulously placed on its four corners (or more accurately, the four distinct faces/sides where the rings were), served as essential points for inserting carrying poles. Their purpose was to enable the portable table to be safely transported by the Levites as the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness, ensuring the sacred items remained untouched by human hands. This detail emphasizes God's exact specifications for His sanctuary and its furnishings, underscoring both their holiness and their practical function in the life of a mobile people.

Exodus 37 12 Context

Exodus 37 falls within the section of the book (Exodus 35-40) detailing the actual construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, meticulously following the divine blueprint given to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25-31). Chapter 37 specifically describes the crafting of three key sacred items by Bezaleel: the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread (verse 12 being a detail of this), and the Lampstand (Menorah).

The historical context is that of the Israelites in the wilderness, having recently received the Law and the covenant from God. The Tabernacle was God's solution for dwelling among His people during their nomadic journey to the Promised Land. Its portable design, featuring carrying poles for every major component (like the Table), was crucial for this migratory existence. Every detail, down to the rings, was given by divine instruction, signifying the holiness and set-apartness of the Lord's dwelling and worship system, distinguishing it from pagan temples that housed static idols.

Exodus 37 12 Word analysis

• And he cast (וַיִּצֹק – vayyitsoq): From the verb יָצַק (yatsaq), meaning "to pour, cast, melt." This implies a deliberate, precise method of formation, rather than hammering from a sheet. It denotes a solid, molded construction, reflecting divine craftsmanship and permanence in design. It was not just fashioned, but "cast," indicating an integral part of the table's design, not an afterthought.
• for it (לֹו – lo): This direct pronoun refers specifically to "the table of showbread" previously mentioned in Exodus 37:10-11, underscoring that these rings were unique and fitted only for this specific, holy piece of furniture.
• four rings (אַרְבַּע טַבְּעֹת – 'arba' taba'ot):
  • four ('arba'): Symbolizes universality or completeness, often associated with the cardinal directions (North, South, East, West). In this context, it ensures stability and balance when carrying the sacred object, allowing for equal distribution of weight by the carriers.
  • rings (ṭabba‘aṯ): A circle, loop, or band, typically used for fastening, securing, or holding. Here, designed to accommodate poles. Their circular shape, with no beginning or end, can subtly hint at eternity or continuous divine presence.
• of gold (זָהָב – zahav): Denotes purity, preciousness, kingship, and divinity. Gold, being resistant to tarnish and decay, symbolized the unchangeable and eternal nature of God and His commands. All key elements of the sanctuary that brought the people into the presence of God were of gold, highlighting their sacredness and God's glory.
• in its four corners (עַל אַרְבַּע פֵּאוֹתָיו – 'al 'arba' pe'otayv): The word פֵּאָה (pe'ah) means "side, corner, edge, extremity." It can refer to the faces or broad sides rather than sharp mathematical corners. The rings were strategically placed at points that facilitated carrying along the long sides of the table. This placement ensures that the table remains balanced and stable while being carried, vital for the valuable and holy bread it would contain.
• and two rings were on the one side, and two rings on the other side: This specifies the precise arrangement. The table would have two long sides and two short sides. This clarifies that the rings were attached to the two long sides, allowing for poles to run the length of the table and for it to be carried horizontally, maintaining its stability and avoiding damage to the showbread or dishes it carried.

Word Group Analysis:

• "And he cast for it four rings of gold": This phrase emphasizes the preciousness and deliberate crafting of these functional components. The divine instruction required not merely attaching rings but "casting" them, signifying integrated strength and durability essential for objects carrying God's sacred presence. The use of gold signifies the holiness and value placed on every detail of the Tabernacle and its functions, reinforcing God's meticulousness in setting apart His sacred space and service.
• "in its four corners; and two rings were on the one side, and two rings on the other side": This phrase precisely describes the balanced and strategic placement of the rings. It ensures the stable and horizontal transport of the Table of Showbread. The mirroring "two on one side and two on the other" highlights symmetry, balance, and intentional design for a specific, holy purpose. This attention to detail reflects God's ordered nature and the reverent care required in serving Him and His presence.

Exodus 37 12 Bonus section

• The rings, being "cast" rather than simply attached, indicate a unified and robust construction. This ensured that the table, an object vital for sustained fellowship (the bread symbolizing daily spiritual nourishment), would not falter or break during the long and arduous wilderness journeys.
• This instruction about the rings, repeated in different contexts (for the Ark, Table, and Altar of Incense), demonstrates a consistent divine principle: God's presence and His means of provision and worship are designed for a dynamic, pilgrimage-like life, not static institutionalism. The Israelites were meant to be on the move with God at their center.
• The meticulous planning for transport meant that even in transit, the holiness of the Tabernacle items was maintained, symbolizing that God's holiness does not diminish based on circumstances or location.

Exodus 37 12 Commentary

Exodus 37:12, though seemingly a small detail, highlights profound truths about God's character and His interaction with humanity. The casting of pure gold rings for the Table of Showbread demonstrates the extraordinary meticulousness of the divine blueprint. Every element, down to these seemingly minor fixtures, was imbued with significance, reflecting God's order, holiness, and the necessity of precision in worship. The purpose of these rings, to enable carrying through the insertion of poles, underscores the portable nature of God's presence among His wandering people. Unlike the fixed shrines of surrounding pagan nations, Israel's God was not bound to a physical location but traveled with His covenant people, always accessible, always providing.

The use of "gold" for these functional rings speaks volumes: God's work, even its practical elements, must be of the highest quality, symbolizing purity, kingship, and the enduring glory of His presence. These rings prevented human hands from directly touching the sacred table, emphasizing reverence, holiness, and the consecrated nature of those appointed for its care. Ultimately, this verse, embedded in the construction narrative, foreshadows God's desire not for a static, distant temple, but for an active, dynamic relationship with His people, whom He sustains (symbolized by the showbread) throughout their journey of faith.