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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Exodus 31:5 to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/exodus/31-5.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/16/02_Exo_31_05.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Exodus 31:5 - Bezalel and Oholiab the Craftsmen" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/exodus/31-5.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/exodus/31-5.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/exodus/">Exodus</a> > <a href="/exodus/31.htm">Chapter 31</a> > Verse 5</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad5.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/exodus/31-4.htm" title="Exodus 31:4">◄</a> Exodus 31:5 <a href="/exodus/31-6.htm" title="Exodus 31:6">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/exodus/31.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/exodus/31.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/exodus/31.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />He is skilled in engraving and mounting gemstones and in carving wood. He is a master at every craft!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/exodus/31.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/exodus/31.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/exodus/31.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />And in cutting of stones, to set <i>them</i>, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/exodus/31.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />in cutting jewels for setting, in carving wood, and to work in all <i>manner of</i> workmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/exodus/31.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />and in the cutting of stones for settings, and in the carving of wood, so that he may work in all <i>kinds of</i> craftsmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/exodus/31.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />and in the cutting of stones for settings, and in the carving of wood, that he may work in all kinds of craftsmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/exodus/31.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />and in the cutting of stones for settings, and in the carving of wood, that he may work in all <i>kinds of</i> craftsmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/exodus/31.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />and in the cutting of stones for settings, and in the carving of wood, in order <i>for him</i> to work in all <i>kinds of</i> craftsmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/exodus/31.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />and in the cutting of stones for settings, and in the carving of wood, to work in all kinds of craftsmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/exodus/31.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />to cut gemstones for mounting, and to carve wood for work in every craft.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/exodus/31.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />to cut gemstones for mounting, and to carve wood for work in every craft. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/exodus/31.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />and in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all manner of workmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/exodus/31.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />and in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all manner of workmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/exodus/31.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />He knows how to cut and set stones and how to work with wood. He's an expert in all trades.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/exodus/31.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />for cutting jewels to be set; for carving wood; and for every other kind of artistic work. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/exodus/31.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />and for cutting stones to set them, for carving wood, and for doing all kinds of craftsmanship. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/exodus/31.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/exodus/31.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />and with cutting and setting stone, and with cutting wood, to work in all kinds of craftsmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/exodus/31.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />and in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all manner of workmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/exodus/31.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />And in cutting of stones to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/exodus/31.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />and in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all kinds of workmanship. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/exodus/31.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />and in a carving of stone for settings, and in a carving of wood to work in all work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/exodus/31.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> and in graving of stone for settings, and in graving of wood to work in all work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/exodus/31.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />And in graving stone for filling up, and in graving wood, to work in all work.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/exodus/31.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Of marble, and precious stones, and variety of wood. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/exodus/31.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />from marble, and precious stones, and various woods.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/exodus/31.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />in cutting and mounting precious stones, in carving wood, and in every other craft.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/exodus/31.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, in every kind of craft.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/exodus/31.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />And in the art of cutting of stones to be set and in the carving of timber and in all manner of workmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/exodus/31.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />To teach workmanship to work in gold and in silver and in brass,<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/exodus/31.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />and in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all manner of workmanship.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/exodus/31.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />and works in stone, and for artificers' work in wood, to work at all works.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/exodus/31-5.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kVae3PiKqhs?start=8072" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/exodus/31.htm">Bezalel and Oholiab the Craftsmen</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">4</span>to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, <span class="reftext">5</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/2799.htm" title="2799: ū·ḇa·ḥă·rō·šeṯ (Conj-w, Prep-b:: N-fsc) -- A carving, skillful working. From charash; mechanical work.">to cut</a> <a href="/hebrew/68.htm" title="68: ’e·ḇen (N-fs) -- A stone. From the root of banah through the meaning to build; a stone.">gemstones</a> <a href="/hebrew/4390.htm" title="4390: lə·mal·lōṯ (Prep-l:: V-Piel-Inf) -- To be full, to fill. Or malae; a primitive root, to fill or be full of, in a wide application.">for settings,</a> <a href="/hebrew/2799.htm" title="2799: ū·ḇa·ḥă·rō·šeṯ (Conj-w, Prep-b:: N-fsc) -- A carving, skillful working. From charash; mechanical work.">and to carve</a> <a href="/hebrew/6086.htm" title="6086: ‘êṣ (N-ms) -- Tree, trees, wood. From atsah; a tree; hence, wood.">wood,</a> <a href="/hebrew/6213.htm" title="6213: la·‘ă·śō·wṯ (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To do, make. A primitive root; to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application.">so that he may be a master</a> <a href="/hebrew/3605.htm" title="3605: bə·ḵāl (Prep-b:: N-msc) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">of every</a> <a href="/hebrew/4399.htm" title="4399: mə·lā·ḵāh (N-fs) -- From the same as mal'ak; properly, deputyship, i.e. Ministry; generally, employment or work; also property.">craft.</a> </span><span class="reftext">6</span>Moreover, I have selected Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, as his assistant. I have also given skill to all the craftsmen, that they may fashion all that I have commanded you:…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/7-14.htm">1 Kings 7:14</a></span><br />He was the son of a widow from the tribe of Naphtali, and his father was a man of Tyre, a craftsman in bronze. Huram had great skill, understanding, and knowledge for every kind of bronze work. So he came to King Solomon and carried out all his work.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_chronicles/2-14.htm">2 Chronicles 2:14</a></span><br />He is the son of a woman from the daughters of Dan, and his father is a man of Tyre. He is skilled in work with gold and silver, bronze and iron, stone and wood, purple, blue, and crimson yarn, and fine linen. He is experienced in every kind of engraving and can execute any design that is given him. He will work with your craftsmen and with those of my lord, your father David.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/28-24.htm">Isaiah 28:24-29</a></span><br />Does the plowman plow for planting every day? Does he continuously loosen and harrow the soil? / When he has leveled its surface, does he not sow caraway and scatter cumin? He plants wheat in rows and barley in plots, and rye within its border. / For his God instructs and teaches him properly. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_chronicles/22-15.htm">1 Chronicles 22:15-16</a></span><br />You also have many workers: stonecutters, masons, carpenters, and men skilled in every kind of work— / in gold and silver, bronze and iron—craftsmen beyond number. Now begin the work, and may the LORD be with you.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/6-7.htm">1 Kings 6:7</a></span><br />The temple was constructed using finished stones cut at the quarry, so that no hammer or chisel or any other iron tool was heard in the temple while it was being built.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_chronicles/3-6.htm">2 Chronicles 3:6</a></span><br />He adorned the temple with precious stones for beauty, and its gold was from Parvaim.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_kings/10-22.htm">1 Kings 10:22</a></span><br />For the king had the ships of Tarshish at sea with Hiram’s fleet, and once every three years the ships of Tarshish would arrive bearing gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_chronicles/9-10.htm">2 Chronicles 9:10-11</a></span><br />(The servants of Hiram and of Solomon who brought gold from Ophir also brought algum wood and precious stones. / The king made the algum wood into steps for the house of the LORD and for the king’s palace, and into lyres and harps for the singers. Never before had anything like them been seen in the land of Judah.)<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/8-12.htm">Proverbs 8:12</a></span><br />I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence, and I find knowledge and discretion.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/44-12.htm">Isaiah 44:12-13</a></span><br />The blacksmith takes a tool and labors over the coals; he fashions an idol with hammers and forges it with his strong arms. Yet he grows hungry and loses his strength; he fails to drink water and grows faint. / The woodworker extends a measuring line; he marks it out with a stylus; he shapes it with chisels and outlines it with a compass. He fashions it in the likeness of man, like man in all his glory, that it may dwell in a shrine.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/12-4.htm">1 Corinthians 12:4-11</a></span><br />There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. / There are different ministries, but the same Lord. / There are different ways of working, but the same God works all things in all people. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/2-10.htm">Ephesians 2:10</a></span><br />For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/3-23.htm">Colossians 3:23-24</a></span><br />Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, as for the Lord and not for men, / because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/4-10.htm">1 Peter 4:10-11</a></span><br />As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another. / If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/12-6.htm">Romans 12:6-8</a></span><br />We have different gifts according to the grace given us. If one’s gift is prophecy, let him use it in proportion to his faith; / if it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; / if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is giving, let him give generously; if it is leading, let him lead with diligence; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">And in cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/exodus/28-9.htm">Exodus 28:9-21</a></b></br> And thou shalt take two onyx stones, and grave on them the names of the children of Israel: … </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/isaiah/45-16.htm">Carving</a> <a href="/revelation/18-22.htm">Craft</a> <a href="/exodus/31-3.htm">Craftsmanship</a> <a href="/exodus/30-38.htm">Cut</a> <a href="/exodus/28-36.htm">Cutting</a> <a href="/revelation/13-4.htm">Engage</a> <a href="/exodus/26-24.htm">Form</a> <a href="/acts/17-29.htm">Graving</a> <a href="/exodus/31-3.htm">Kinds</a> <a href="/exodus/31-3.htm">Manner</a> <a href="/exodus/25-7.htm">Setting</a> <a href="/exodus/28-25.htm">Settings</a> <a href="/exodus/28-11.htm">Stone</a> <a href="/exodus/28-21.htm">Stones</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-12.htm">Timber</a> <a href="/exodus/30-5.htm">Wood</a> <a href="/zechariah/5-4.htm">Woodwork</a> <a href="/exodus/31-4.htm">Work</a> <a href="/exodus/31-3.htm">Workmanship</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/exodus/35-33.htm">Carving</a> <a href="/exodus/35-33.htm">Craft</a> <a href="/exodus/35-31.htm">Craftsmanship</a> <a href="/exodus/31-14.htm">Cut</a> <a href="/exodus/35-33.htm">Cutting</a> <a href="/exodus/35-33.htm">Engage</a> <a href="/numbers/8-4.htm">Form</a> <a href="/exodus/32-4.htm">Graving</a> <a href="/exodus/35-31.htm">Kinds</a> <a href="/exodus/35-24.htm">Manner</a> <a href="/exodus/35-9.htm">Setting</a> <a href="/exodus/35-9.htm">Settings</a> <a href="/exodus/31-18.htm">Stone</a> <a href="/exodus/31-18.htm">Stones</a> <a href="/leviticus/14-45.htm">Timber</a> <a href="/exodus/35-7.htm">Wood</a> <a href="/habakkuk/2-11.htm">Woodwork</a> <a href="/exodus/31-14.htm">Work</a> <a href="/exodus/35-31.htm">Workmanship</a><div class="vheading2">Exodus 31</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/exodus/31-1.htm">Bezaleel and Aholiah are appointed for the work of the tabernacle</a></span><br><span class="reftext">12. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/exodus/31-12.htm">The observation of the Sabbath is again commanded</a></span><br><span class="reftext">18. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/exodus/31-18.htm">Moses receives the two tablets</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/exodus/31.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/exodus/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/exodus/31.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>to cut gemstones for settings</b><br>This phrase highlights the skill and craftsmanship required in the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of beauty and precision in worship. Gemstones were often used in ancient Near Eastern cultures for their beauty and symbolic meanings. In the context of the Tabernacle, gemstones were set in the high priest's breastplate (<a href="/exodus/28-17.htm">Exodus 28:17-21</a>), symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel. The cutting of gemstones required expertise, reflecting God's provision of skilled artisans like Bezalel, who were endowed with the Spirit of God for this purpose (<a href="/exodus/31.htm">Exodus 31:1-4</a>). This craftsmanship can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the master craftsman of our faith, shaping and refining believers as precious stones in His spiritual house (<a href="/1_peter/2-5.htm">1 Peter 2:5</a>).<p><b>and to carve wood</b><br>Wood carving was another essential skill for the construction of the Tabernacle, as many of its components, such as the Ark of the Covenant, were made of acacia wood overlaid with gold (<a href="/exodus/25-10.htm">Exodus 25:10-11</a>). The use of wood signifies durability and the natural beauty of God's creation, which is transformed for His glory. The ability to carve wood into intricate designs reflects the creativity endowed by God to His people. This craftsmanship points to the work of the Holy Spirit in believers, who transforms and shapes them for God's purposes (<a href="/ephesians/2-10.htm">Ephesians 2:10</a>). The wood used in the Tabernacle can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the cross of Christ, where the ultimate sacrifice was made for humanity's redemption.<p><b>so that he may be a master of every craft</b><br>This phrase underscores the comprehensive nature of the skills given to Bezalel and others involved in the Tabernacle's construction. Being a master of every craft implies a divinely inspired ability to excel in various forms of artistry and craftsmanship. This reflects the biblical principle that all gifts and talents come from God and are to be used for His glory (<a href="/james/1-17.htm">James 1:17</a>). The mastery of every craft can be seen as a parallel to the wisdom and knowledge of Christ, who is the source of all wisdom and understanding (<a href="/colossians/2-3.htm">Colossians 2:3</a>). It also serves as a reminder that believers are called to use their diverse gifts in unity for the edification of the body of Christ (<a href="/1_corinthians/12-4.htm">1 Corinthians 12:4-7</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/b/bezalel.htm">Bezalel</a></b><br>A skilled craftsman chosen by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle. He is filled with the Spirit of God, granting him wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/t/tabernacle.htm">Tabernacle</a></b><br>The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. It is a central place of worship and sacrifice.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/m/mount_sinai.htm">Mount Sinai</a></b><br>The location where God gives Moses the instructions for the Tabernacle and the Ten Commandments. It is a place of divine revelation and covenant.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/c/craftsmanship.htm">Craftsmanship</a></b><br>The skill and artistry involved in creating the Tabernacle and its furnishings. This includes working with metals, stones, and wood.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/h/holy_spirit.htm">Holy Spirit</a></b><br>The Spirit of God who empowers individuals like Bezalel with the skills and wisdom needed for specific tasks, highlighting the divine origin of their abilities.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/d/divine_empowerment_for_service.htm">Divine Empowerment for Service</a></b><br>God equips individuals with specific skills and talents for His purposes. Recognize and use your God-given abilities to serve Him and others.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_the_holy_spirit.htm">The Role of the Holy Spirit</a></b><br>Just as the Spirit filled Bezalel, believers today are empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfill their God-given roles and responsibilities.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/v/value_of_craftsmanship.htm">Value of Craftsmanship</a></b><br>The work of our hands, when done for God's glory, is valuable and significant. Whether in art, construction, or any other field, our work can be an act of worship.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/o/obedience_in_detail.htm">Obedience in Detail</a></b><br>God cares about the details of our work and service. Like Bezalel, we should strive for excellence and faithfulness in all that we do.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/c/community_and_collaboration.htm">Community and Collaboration</a></b><br>The construction of the Tabernacle required many skilled individuals working together. In the body of Christ, collaboration and unity are essential for accomplishing God's work.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_exodus_31.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Exodus 31</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_are_sabbath_rules_stricter_here.htm">(Exodus 35) Why do these Sabbath regulations here seem stricter than in some other parts of the Torah, creating possible inconsistencies in biblical commands?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_was_the_breastpiece_crafted_in_the_wild.htm">Exodus 39:8-21: How did they manage the sophisticated techniques required to craft and engrave the breastpiece with gemstone settings in a wilderness setting?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_execute_sabbath_workers_if_god_is_merciful.htm">If God is merciful, why does He command the execution of people who work on the Sabbath (Exodus 31:14)?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/can_exodus_28_gems_match_israel's_trade.htm">Exodus 28:15-21: Could the precise identification and sourcing of twelve specific gemstones align historically with the Israelites' environment and trading networks?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/exodus/31.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 5.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">In cutting of stones</span> - <span class="accented">i.e.</span>, "in Genesis-curling." The fabric of the tabernacle was entirely of metal, cloth, and wood. <span class="cmt_word">In carving of timber</span>. Rather "cutting." The word is the same as that used of the stones. And no ornamental "carving" of the woodwork was prescribed. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/exodus/31-5.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">to cut</span><br /><span class="heb">וּבַחֲרֹ֥שֶׁת</span> <span class="translit">(ū·ḇa·ḥă·rō·šeṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Noun - feminine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2799.htm">Strong's 2799: </a> </span><span class="str2">A carving, skillful working</span><br /><br /><span class="word">gemstones</span><br /><span class="heb">אֶ֛בֶן</span> <span class="translit">(’e·ḇen)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_68.htm">Strong's 68: </a> </span><span class="str2">A stone</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for settings,</span><br /><span class="heb">לְמַלֹּ֖את</span> <span class="translit">(lə·mal·lōṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Verb - Piel - Infinitive construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4390.htm">Strong's 4390: </a> </span><span class="str2">To fill, be full of</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and to carve</span><br /><span class="heb">וּבַחֲרֹ֣שֶׁת</span> <span class="translit">(ū·ḇa·ḥă·rō·šeṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Noun - feminine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2799.htm">Strong's 2799: </a> </span><span class="str2">A carving, skillful working</span><br /><br /><span class="word">wood,</span><br /><span class="heb">עֵ֑ץ</span> <span class="translit">(‘êṣ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6086.htm">Strong's 6086: </a> </span><span class="str2">Tree, trees, wood</span><br /><br /><span class="word">so that he may be a master</span><br /><span class="heb">לַעֲשׂ֖וֹת</span> <span class="translit">(la·‘ă·śō·wṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6213.htm">Strong's 6213: </a> </span><span class="str2">To do, make</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of every</span><br /><span class="heb">בְּכָל־</span> <span class="translit">(bə·ḵāl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> </span><span class="str2">The whole, all, any, every</span><br /><br /><span class="word">craft.</span><br /><span class="heb">מְלָאכָֽה׃</span> <span class="translit">(mə·lā·ḵāh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4399.htm">Strong's 4399: </a> </span><span class="str2">Deputyship, ministry, employment, work, property</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/exodus/31-5.htm">Exodus 31:5 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/exodus/31-5.htm">Exodus 31:5 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/exodus/31-5.htm">Exodus 31:5 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/exodus/31-5.htm">Exodus 31:5 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/exodus/31-5.htm">Exodus 31:5 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/exodus/31-5.htm">Exodus 31:5 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/exodus/31-5.htm">Exodus 31:5 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/exodus/31-5.htm">Exodus 31:5 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/exodus/31-5.htm">Exodus 31:5 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/exodus/31-5.htm">Exodus 31:5 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/exodus/31-5.htm">OT Law: Exodus 31:5 And in cutting of stones for setting (Exo. Ex) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/exodus/31-4.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Exodus 31:4"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Exodus 31:4" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/exodus/31-6.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Exodus 31:6"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Exodus 31:6" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>