Exodus 38:8

Next he made the bronze basin and its stand from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting.

Study Bible

Next he made the bronze basin and its stand
The bronze basin, also known as the laver, was an essential part of the Tabernacle's furnishings. It was used by the priests for ceremonial washing before they performed their duties, symbolizing purification and the need for holiness when approaching God. The use of bronze, a durable and reflective material, signifies judgment and strength. The basin's construction follows the detailed instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commands in worship practices.

from the mirrors of the women
The mirrors mentioned here were likely made of polished bronze, as glass mirrors were not common in the ancient Near East. These mirrors were personal items, indicating a significant sacrifice by the women who donated them. This act of giving up personal possessions for the service of God reflects a heart of devotion and willingness to contribute to the communal worship life of Israel. It also highlights the role of women in the religious life of the community, showing their active participation and dedication.

who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting
The women who served at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting were likely involved in some form of ministry or service, although the exact nature of their duties is not specified. Their presence at the entrance suggests a role in maintaining the sanctity and order of the worship space. This service can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament concept of the priesthood of all believers, where both men and women are called to serve God. The Tent of Meeting, also known as the Tabernacle, was the central place of worship for the Israelites during their wilderness journey, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
The chief artisan of the Tabernacle, appointed by God to oversee its construction, including the making of the bronze basin.

2. Women who served
These women contributed their mirrors for the making of the basin, indicating their dedication and service at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting.

3. Bronze Basin
A significant piece of the Tabernacle used for ceremonial washing by the priests, symbolizing purification.

4. Tent of Meeting
The sacred place where God met with Moses and where the Israelites worshiped during their wilderness journey.

5. Mirrors
Made of polished bronze, these were valuable personal items that the women willingly gave up for the construction of the basin.

Teaching Points

Sacrificial Giving
The women gave up their valuable mirrors for the construction of the basin, teaching us about the importance of sacrificial giving for God's work.

Purification and Holiness
The bronze basin symbolizes the need for purification before approaching God, reminding us of the importance of spiritual cleanliness and holiness in our lives.

Role of Women in Ministry
The contribution of the women highlights the significant role women play in ministry and service to God.

Transformation through Service
Just as the mirrors were transformed into a basin, our lives can be transformed through service and dedication to God's purposes.

Reflecting God's Glory
The mirrors, once used for personal reflection, became a tool for divine service, encouraging us to reflect God's glory in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the sacrificial giving of the women’s mirrors teach us about our own willingness to give to God’s work?

2. How does the role of the bronze basin in the Tabernacle relate to the concept of spiritual purification in the New Testament?

3. In what ways can we see the role of women in ministry reflected in both the Old and New Testaments?

4. How can the transformation of the mirrors into a basin inspire us to allow God to transform our lives for His purposes?

5. How can we apply the concept of reflecting God’s glory in our daily lives, as seen in the transformation of the mirrors?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:17-21
Provides instructions for the use of the bronze basin, emphasizing its role in the purification process for the priests before they enter the Tent of Meeting or approach the altar.

1 Samuel 2:22
Mentions women who served at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting, highlighting the ongoing role of women in the religious life of Israel.

2 Corinthians 3:18
Discusses transformation and reflection of God's glory, which can be metaphorically linked to the mirrors used in the basin, symbolizing the reflection and transformation of the believers.

James 1:23-25
Compares the Word of God to a mirror, encouraging believers to not only hear the Word but also act upon it, similar to how the mirrors were transformed into a tool for purification.