Definition: And Bezaleel made the ark [of] shittim wood: two cubits and a half [was] the length of it, and a cubit and a half the breadth of it, and a cubit and a half the height of it:
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Exodus 37:1. It’s a really important passage about God’s plan for protecting His people during a time of great danger. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse describes the creation and construction of a special ark – a boat – that God would use to protect His followers from a terrible storm. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And Bezaleel made the ark [of] shittim wood” : This tells us who was involved. "Bezaleel" was a skilled craftsman and servant of God, known for his amazing abilities. He was tasked with building something very important. “The ark of shittim” is an ancient name for the wooden box that God used to protect His people during the Flood. “two cubits and a half [was] the length of it…” : This is a measurement – two cubits (which are about 18 inches) and a half (about 9 inches). This gives us an idea of its size. “…and a cubit and a half the breadth of it…” : “A cubit” was a unit of length, roughly equivalent to 6-7 inches. So, this means the ark was about 18 inches wide. “…and a cubit and a half the height of it:” This is the final measurement – about 18 inches high. So, what does this tell us? It shows that God specifically chose a particular type of wood (shittim) for the ark. It’s made to be a safe and sturdy container for the Israelites' belongings and their safety during a very difficult time. It was designed to be a symbol of God’s protection. Why is this important? This verse is significant because it shows God’s meticulous planning and foresight. He knew exactly what he needed to create – a strong, reliable container to help His people survive. It's a beautiful example of how God can work in detail and provide for His people with incredible care. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Exodus 37? Discuss the significance of the ark itself in biblical stories?