Cubits
Cubits were a basic unit of measurement in Israel. One cubit equaled the distance from the elbow to the fingertips—about 18 inches (46 cm).
Cubits were a basic unit of measurement in Israel. One cubit equaled the distance from the elbow to the fingertips—about 18 inches (46 cm).
Acacia wood was highly valued for its beauty and durability. Around the Mediterranean, some acacias are like shrubs, while others grow up to 50 feet… Read More »Acacia wood
The Jewish year was based on the annual rotation of the sun, moon, and stars, and on the cycle for planting and harvesting crops. The… Read More »The Jewish year
The level of detail given in God’s instructions for the tabernacle in ch. 30 emphasizes that Israel is to worship the Lord in their midst… Read More »Instructions for the tabernacle
Altar of incense. Incense was burned to purify the altars after animals had been slaughtered there. Incense also symbolized Israel’s constant prayer to God.
A veil separated the altar from the Most Holy Place of God’s presence in the tabernacle and later in the temple. Aaron the priest was… Read More »Veil
The gold bells along the hems of the high priest’s garment (28:33) served two purposes. They alerted people that the high priest was present, and… Read More »Gold bells
What was the purpose of the Mosaic covenant? Israel was already God’s chosen people because of the promises God made to Abraham. The covenant with… Read More »What was the purpose of the Mosaic covenant?
Restitution. The Mosaic law decreed that those who caused others to lose property, through either theft or carelessness, had to make full restitution for the… Read More »Restitution
How did people end up as slaves? The word translated “slave” can refer to several types of persons. Debt was the most common reason that… Read More »How did people end up as slaves?
On eagles’ wings. The kind of eagle that the author of Exodus probably had in mind had a wingspan of 8 to 10 feet (2–3… Read More »On eagles’ wings
Who were the Amalekites? The Amalekites were nomads living in the northern Sinai peninsula. They were the first to attack the Israelites after the exodus.… Read More »Who were the Amalekites?