Exodus 36:8
And every wise hearted man among them that wrought the work of the tabernacle made ten curtains of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet: with cherubims of cunning work made he them.
Exodus 36:8 (KJV)
Context
Exodus is the second book of the Bible. It tells how God freed Israel from slavery in Egypt and led them toward the Promised Land. In chapter 36, the people begin building the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary where God’s presence would dwell among them during their wilderness journey. God gave Moses detailed instructions on Mount Sinai, and the people responded with willing hearts and skilled hands.
The Tabernacle was not built by Moses alone. It was a community effort led by Bezalel, whom God filled with His Spirit and wisdom for this task. The verse names “every wise hearted man among them that wrought the work,” showing that many skilled artisans shared in the labor. Their wisdom came from God, not from natural talent alone. This wisdom was a special gift for the work, enabling them to craft what God had commanded.
Meaning
The phrase “wise hearted” describes people who received God-given understanding and skill. In Scripture, wisdom often includes practical ability, not just knowledge. These workers were equipped by God to do excellent work for His dwelling place. Their skill was not for personal fame but for the honor of God.
The craftsmen made ten curtains of “fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet.” These were costly materials. Blue, purple, and scarlet were expensive dyes, and fine twined linen was a high-quality fabric. Using such materials showed that the work was sacred and worthy of God’s presence. The best of what the people had was given to God.
The curtains were decorated “with cherubims of cunning work.” Cherubim are angelic beings associated with God’s throne and presence. They also appeared in the Garden of Eden and on the Ark of the Covenant. The skilled embroidery of cherubim connected the Tabernacle to the heavenly reality it represented. This detail reminds us that the Tabernacle was a copy of a greater heavenly pattern.
Biblical connections
The Tabernacle foreshadows a greater truth. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ “tabernacled” among us, dwelling with humanity in a fuller way. The careful construction of the earthly Tabernacle points to the perfect dwelling of God with His people through Christ. Just as God’s presence filled the Tabernacle, so Christ came to live among us and reveal God’s glory.
Application
God calls and equips His people to serve Him with excellence. The wise-hearted workers used their skills for His glory. Believers today also receive gifts from God, and those gifts are to be used in His service. Every talent, whether common or rare, can be offered to God.
Reverence for God’s presence: The Tabernacle’s beauty shows the people’s awe and humility before a holy God.
God’s call and gifting: Each person has unique talents from God, and using them for His work builds His kingdom.
Symbolism of colours: The linen and dyes remind believers to pursue purity, seek divine revelation, honour God’s authority, and value Christ’s sacrifice.
Cherishing God’s presence: The cherubim remind us of God’s nearness and protection. Christians have the Holy Spirit within them and should live in daily obedience.
Collaboration in service: The Tabernacle was a joint effort. In the body of Christ, believers work together, each contributing their gifts for the common goal.
Reflection
Exodus 36:8 shows the dedication and skill of those who built the Tabernacle. Their work was careful, beautiful, and offered to God. As believers meditate on this verse, they are encouraged to offer their own abilities for God’s service and to approach His presence with awe and humility. The wise-hearted workers gave their best, and we are called to do the same.
