Exodus 30:3 - You shall overlay it with pure gold, its top, its sides around it, and its horns; and you shall make a gold molding around it.

Generated Verse: Exodus 30:3

What does "Exodus 30:3" mean?


This verse from Exodus 30:3 describes the ornamentation of the Altar of Incense, a key component of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary built by the Israelites in the wilderness. Let's break down the meaning:

"You shall overlay it with pure gold...": This means that the entire Altar of Incense, or at least its exterior surfaces, was to be covered with a layer of pure gold. This would have been a thin sheet of gold hammered or applied to the underlying structure (likely acacia wood). The gold signifies purity, preciousness, royalty, and divine presence.

"...its top, its sides around it, and its horns...": This specifies exactly which parts of the altar should be covered in gold. The "top" refers to the flat surface where the incense would be burned. The "sides around it" refers to the vertical panels making up the body of the altar. The "horns" were projections, likely shaped like animal horns, extending upwards from the four corners of the altar's top. Horns were symbols of strength, power, and access to God.

"...and you shall make a gold molding around it.": A "molding" refers to a decorative strip or border. This verse instructs that a gold molding should be placed around the altar, likely at the top where the sides met the top surface. This served both a decorative purpose and potentially added structural integrity. It further emphasized the value and significance of the altar.

In Summary:

The verse details the meticulous and lavish construction of the Altar of Incense, specifying that it must be completely covered in pure gold, including its top, sides, and horns, and finished with a decorative gold molding. This emphasizes the holiness, importance, and value of the altar and its function as a place of communion with God through the offering of incense. The precious materials and careful craftsmanship reflect the respect and reverence the Israelites were to have for the divine presence in their midst.

What categories does "Exodus 30:3" have?