Exodus 31:5
New International Version
to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts.

New Living Translation
He is skilled in engraving and mounting gemstones and in carving wood. He is a master at every craft!

English Standard Version
in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft.

Berean Standard Bible
to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft.

Berean Literal Bible
and in cutting stone for setting, and in cutting wood, to work in all manner of workmanship.

King James Bible
And in cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship.

New King James Version
in cutting jewels for setting, in carving wood, and to work in all manner of workmanship.

New American Standard Bible
and in the cutting of stones for settings, and in the carving of wood, so that he may work in all kinds of craftsmanship.

NASB 1995
and in the cutting of stones for settings, and in the carving of wood, that he may work in all kinds of craftsmanship.

NASB 1977
and in the cutting of stones for settings, and in the carving of wood, that he may work in all kinds of craftsmanship.

Legacy Standard Bible
and in the cutting of stones for settings, and in the carving of wood, in order for him to work in all kinds of craftsmanship.

Amplified Bible
and in the cutting of stones for settings, and in the carving of wood, to work in all kinds of craftsmanship.

Berean Annotated Bible
to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft.

Christian Standard Bible
to cut gemstones for mounting, and to carve wood for work in every craft.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
to cut gemstones for mounting, and to carve wood for work in every craft.

American Standard Version
and in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all manner of workmanship.

English Revised Version
and in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all manner of workmanship.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
He knows how to cut and set stones and how to work with wood. He's an expert in all trades.

Good News Translation
for cutting jewels to be set; for carving wood; and for every other kind of artistic work.

International Standard Version
and for cutting stones to set them, for carving wood, and for doing all kinds of craftsmanship.

NET Bible
and with cutting and setting stone, and with cutting wood, to work in all kinds of craftsmanship.

New Heart English Bible
and in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all manner of workmanship.

Webster's Bible Translation
And in cutting of stones to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft.

World English Bible
and in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all kinds of workmanship.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and in a carving of stone for settings, and in a carving of wood to work in all work.

Berean Literal Bible
and in cutting stone for setting, and in cutting wood, to work in all manner of workmanship.

Young's Literal Translation
and in graving of stone for settings, and in graving of wood to work in all work.

Smith's Literal Translation
And in graving stone for filling up, and in graving wood, to work in all work.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Of marble, and precious stones, and variety of wood.

Catholic Public Domain Version
from marble, and precious stones, and various woods.

New American Bible
in cutting and mounting precious stones, in carving wood, and in every other craft.

New Revised Standard Version
in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, in every kind of craft.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And in the art of cutting of stones to be set and in the carving of timber and in all manner of workmanship.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
To teach workmanship to work in gold and in silver and in brass,
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
and in cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, to work in all manner of workmanship.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
and works in stone, and for artificers' work in wood, to work at all works.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Bezalel and Oholiab the Craftsmen
4to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, 5to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft. 6Moreover, 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:…

Cross References
to cut gemstones for settings,

Exodus 28:9-12
Take two onyx stones and engrave on them the names of the sons of Israel: / six of their names on one stone and the remaining six on the other, in the order of their birth. / Engrave the names of the sons of Israel on the two stones the way a gem cutter engraves a seal. Then mount the stones in gold filigree settings. …

Exodus 28:17-20
And mount on it a setting of gemstones, four rows of stones: In the first row there shall be a ruby, a topaz, and an emerald; / in the second row a turquoise, a sapphire, and a diamond; / in the third row a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst; …

1 Chronicles 29:2
Now with all my ability I have made provision for the house of my God—gold for the gold articles, silver for the silver, bronze for the bronze, iron for the iron, and wood for the wood, as well as onyx for the settings, turquoise, stones of various colors, all kinds of precious stones, and slabs of marble—all in abundance.
and to carve wood,

1 Kings 6:18
The cedar paneling inside the temple was carved with gourds and open flowers. Everything was cedar; not a stone could be seen.

1 Kings 6:29
Then he carved the walls all around the temple, in both the inner and outer sanctuaries, with carved engravings of cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers.

1 Kings 6:35
He carved into them cherubim, palm trees, and open flowers, and he overlaid them with gold hammered evenly over the carvings.
so that he may be a master of every craft.

Exodus 35:31-35
And He has filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship, / to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, / to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every artistic craft. …

2 Chronicles 2:13-14
So now I am sending you Huram-abi, a skillful man endowed with creativity. / 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.

1 Kings 7:13-14
Now King Solomon sent to bring Huram from Tyre. / 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.
1 Kings 7:14
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.

2 Chronicles 2:14
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.

Isaiah 28:24-29
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. …

1 Chronicles 22:15-16
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.”

1 Kings 6:7
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.

2 Chronicles 3:6
He adorned the temple with precious stones for beauty, and its gold was from Parvaim.

1 Kings 10:22
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.


Treasury of Scripture

And in cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of timber, to work in all manner of workmanship.

Exodus 28:9-21
And thou shalt take two onyx stones, and grave on them the names of the children of Israel: …

Jump to Previous
Carving Craft Craftsmanship Cut Cutting Engage Form Graving Kinds Manner Setting Settings Stone Stones Timber Wood Woodwork Work Workmanship
Jump to Next
Carving Craft Craftsmanship Cut Cutting Engage Form Graving Kinds Manner Setting Settings Stone Stones Timber Wood Woodwork Work Workmanship
Exodus 31
1. Bezaleel and Aholiah are appointed for the work of the tabernacle
12. The observation of the Sabbath is again commanded
18. Moses receives the two tablets












to cut gemstones for settings
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 (Exodus 28:17-21), 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 (Exodus 31:1-4). 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 (1 Peter 2:5).

and to carve wood
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 (Exodus 25:10-11). 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 (Ephesians 2:10). 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.

so that he may be a master of every craft
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 (James 1:17). 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 (Colossians 2:3). 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 (1 Corinthians 12:4-7).

Persons / Places / Events
1. Bezalel
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.

2. Tabernacle
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.

3. Mount Sinai
The location where God gives Moses the instructions for the Tabernacle and the Ten Commandments. It is a place of divine revelation and covenant.

4. Craftsmanship
The skill and artistry involved in creating the Tabernacle and its furnishings. This includes working with metals, stones, and wood.

5. Holy Spirit
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.
Teaching Points
Divine Empowerment for Service
God equips individuals with specific skills and talents for His purposes. Recognize and use your God-given abilities to serve Him and others.

The Role of the Holy Spirit
Just as the Spirit filled Bezalel, believers today are empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfill their God-given roles and responsibilities.

Value of Craftsmanship
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.

Obedience in Detail
God cares about the details of our work and service. Like Bezalel, we should strive for excellence and faithfulness in all that we do.

Community and Collaboration
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.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Exodus 31:5?

2. How does Exodus 31:5 demonstrate God's provision of skills for His purposes?

3. What role does craftsmanship play in fulfilling God's plans in Exodus 31:5?

4. How can we use our God-given talents to serve the church today?

5. How does Exodus 31:5 connect to the building of the Tabernacle?

6. In what ways can we seek God's guidance in developing our skills?

7. How does Exodus 31:5 reflect God's view on craftsmanship and artistry?

8. Why does God emphasize skill in craftsmanship in Exodus 31:5?

9. What is the significance of God choosing specific individuals for craftsmanship in Exodus 31:5?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Exodus 31?

11. (Exodus 35) Why do these Sabbath regulations here seem stricter than in some other parts of the Torah, creating possible inconsistencies in biblical commands?

12. 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?

13. If God is merciful, why does He command the execution of people who work on the Sabbath (Exodus 31:14)?

14. Exodus 28:15-21: Could the precise identification and sourcing of twelve specific gemstones align historically with the Israelites' environment and trading networks?
What Does Exodus 31:5 Mean
to cut gemstones for settings

– “to cut gemstones for settings” (Exodus 31:5) spotlights Bezalel’s Spirit-enabled precision in preparing precious stones for the priestly garments (see Exodus 28:17-21).

• God’s people had no margin for error; each stone had to match its appointed place, just as each tribe had its ordained position (Revelation 21:12-14).

• By empowering an artisan to shape gems, the Lord underlines that beauty and holiness are not opposed (1 Chronicles 29:2).

• The verse shows that spiritual gifting reaches into practical work; craftsmanship is as divinely assigned as preaching (1 Corinthians 12:4-7).


and to carve wood

– The Spirit also equips “to carve wood,” ensuring the tabernacle’s frames, altars, and furnishings were crafted exactly as commanded (Exodus 25:10-40).

• Woodwork pictures durability joined with humility—acacia wood overlaid with gold (Exodus 37:1-10) reflects Christ’s humanity and deity (John 1:14).

• God values skilled labor that submits to His blueprint; Solomon’s temple later echoed this principle (1 Kings 6:18).


so that he may be a master of every craft

– The purpose clause “so that he may be a master of every craft” reveals comprehensive enablement, not mere talent.

• The same Spirit who empowers prophets can grant wide-ranging abilities for service (Exodus 35:31-35).

• Mastery points to faithfulness over time (Proverbs 22:29) and to stewardship entrusted by God (Matthew 25:14-23).

• The scope—“every craft”—assures Israel that all tabernacle work will meet God’s holy standard (Hebrews 8:5).


summary

Exodus 31:5 teaches that the Holy Spirit equips believers for precise, beautiful, and comprehensive service. Whether shaping gems, carving wood, or mastering varied skills, God’s people receive everything necessary to accomplish His revealed will with excellence and holiness.

Verse 5. - In cutting of stones - i.e., "in Genesis-curling." The fabric of the tabernacle was entirely of metal, cloth, and wood. In carving of timber. Rather "cutting." The word is the same as that used of the stones. And no ornamental "carving" of the woodwork was prescribed.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
to cut
וּבַחֲרֹ֥שֶׁת (ū·ḇa·ḥă·rō·šeṯ)
Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 2799: A carving, skillful working

gemstones
אֶ֛בֶן (’e·ḇen)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 68: A stone

for settings,
לְמַלֹּ֖את (lə·mal·lōṯ)
Preposition-l | Verb - Piel - Infinitive construct
Strong's 4390: To fill, be full of

and to carve
וּבַחֲרֹ֣שֶׁת (ū·ḇa·ḥă·rō·šeṯ)
Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 2799: A carving, skillful working

wood,
עֵ֑ץ (‘êṣ)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 6086: Tree, trees, wood

so that he may be a master
לַעֲשׂ֖וֹת (la·‘ă·śō·wṯ)
Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 6213: To do, make

of every
בְּכָל־ (bə·ḵāl)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

craft.
מְלָאכָֽה׃ (mə·lā·ḵāh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 4399: Deputyship, ministry, employment, work, property


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OT Law: Exodus 31:5 And in cutting of stones for setting (Exo. Ex)
Exodus 31:4
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