“Every man with whom was found blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats’ hair, and red skins of rams, and badgers’ skins, brought them.”
This verse is part of the account of the preparations for building the Tabernacle, which was a portable sanctuary that the Israelites constructed in the wilderness under the guidance of God. The Tabernacle was a central place of worship and symbolized God’s presence among His people during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.
Context:In the preceding verses, Moses had gathered all the children of Israel and conveyed to them the instructions given by God for constructing the Tabernacle (Exodus 35:1-19). He encouraged the people to contribute willingly and generously, providing the necessary materials for the construction of the sanctuary.
Exodus 35:20-29 gives a detailed account of the offerings brought by the Israelites for the construction of the Tabernacle. The people were eager to participate in this endeavor, and they willingly contributed various materials and skills.
Exodus 35:23 falls within this context and highlights the diversity of materials donated by the people for the construction of the Tabernacle. Let’s examine some key points from this verse:
Colorful Materials:The verse mentions various colors such as blue, purple, and scarlet. These colors were significant in the construction of the Tabernacle, particularly in the making of the curtains and coverings. Each color held symbolic meanings, such as blue representing heavenly qualities, purple symbolizing royalty, and scarlet signifying sacrifice.
Fine Linen:Fine linen was used to create the priestly garments, such as the ephod and the breastplate, worn by the high priest. These garments were essential for the priest’s service in the Tabernacle, signifying their consecration and separation to serve God.
Goats’ Hair:Goats’ hair was used in crafting the outer covering of the Tabernacle, known as the tent or tent curtains. These curtains provided protection and privacy for the sacred items inside the Tabernacle.
Red Skins of Rams and Badgers’ Skins:These materials were used as a protective covering for the outermost layer of the Tabernacle, further safeguarding it from the elements.
Lessons we can learn from Exodus 35:23:
- Willing Hearts in Worship:The Israelites’ enthusiastic and generous contributions demonstrate the importance of having willing hearts when it comes to worshiping and serving God. Their voluntary offerings show devotion and a desire to participate in God’s plans.
- Use of Gifts and Talents:In addition to contributing materials, Exodus 35:25 mentions that “all the women that were wise-hearted did spin with their hands, and brought that which they had spun.” This verse highlights the use of their skills and talents in service to God. It reminds us that God has given each of us unique gifts, and we can use them to honor Him.
- God Values Diversity:The materials offered were diverse in nature, symbolizing the idea that God values different contributions. In the same way, God values the uniqueness of each individual and desires that we unite in diversity to fulfill His purposes.
- Importance of the Tabernacle:The construction of the Tabernacle emphasized God’s desire to dwell among His people and the importance of having a designated place of worship. In the New Testament, this concept is further fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, who came to dwell among humanity (John 1:14).
Overall, Exodus 35:23 teaches us about the beauty of willing hearts in worship, the use of our gifts and talents in service to God, the value of diversity in God’s plan, and the significance of having a place to worship and encounter God. It reminds us of the privilege we have to be part of God’s work and the importance of offering ourselves and our resources for His glory.
