Exodus 35:32
And to devise curious works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass,
Exodus 35:32 (KJV)
Context
The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and part of the Pentateuch, also known as the Torah, which includes the first five books of the Old Testament. Exodus narrates the Israelites’ escape from slavery in Egypt, their journey through the wilderness, and the establishment of the covenant between God and His people at Mount Sinai.
Chapter 35 describes the preparations for building the tabernacle, a portable sanctuary where God’s presence would dwell among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. In Exodus 35:30-31, God appointed and filled Bezalel with His Spirit, giving him wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and craftsmanship in all kinds of artistic works. Verse 32 extends this divine gifting, stating that Bezalel would use his God-given skills to “devise curious works,” working specifically with gold, silver, and brass.
Meaning
The phrase “devise curious works” means to invent, contrive, and draw patterns for skilled artistic work. This was not merely natural talent but a spiritual enablement for a sacred purpose. The parallel commissioning in Exodus 31:1-5 uses nearly identical language, confirming that this skill was divine enablement for the service of the sanctuary. The ability to devise such works involved designing patterns for the tabernacle’s curtains, the veil, the ephod, and other sacred items, demonstrating that the beauty and order of the tabernacle were not human inventions but divine specifications, executed through Spirit-filled artisans.
The materials themselves carry significance. Gold is a precious metal often associated with royalty, purity, and the divine; its use in the tabernacle reflects the splendour and majesty of God’s dwelling place. Silver is also precious and signifies redemption and atonement, relating to the need for atonement for sin. Brass (bronze) is durable and strong, used for parts of the tabernacle such as the altar and the laver, signifying strength, stability, and the permanence of God’s covenant with His people.
Biblical connections
Bezalel’s role as a skilled craftsman emphasizes the importance of using one’s talents in the service of God. The context extends to Oholiab, who was also called and given the ability to teach others (Exodus 35:34), and both were filled with wisdom of heart to work in all manner of craftsmanship, including engraving stones, carving wood, and weaving (Exodus 35:33-35). This passage underscores that all skill and wisdom for God’s work come from Him, and that He gives both the calling and the capability to fulfill it.
Application
God equips and empowers His people for specific tasks. Bezalel’s skills were not merely human abilities but were enhanced by the Spirit of God. Likewise, God equips believers today with spiritual gifts to serve Him and others effectively. All talents and skills can be used for God’s glory. Bezalel’s craftsmanship in various materials was dedicated to the construction of the tabernacle; in the same way, we can use our gifts, whether in the arts, sciences, teaching, or any other field, to bring glory to God and contribute positively to the Kingdom of God.
Worship involves excellence. The tabernacle was designed with exquisite craftsmanship, reflecting the Israelites’ desire to honor God through excellence in their offerings and worship. As we offer our lives as living sacrifices, we should also give our best to God in all aspects of our lives.
Reflection
Exodus 35:32 reminds us of the importance of using our talents and skills to honor and serve God, just as Bezalel used his craftsmanship to create a place of worship and encounter with the divine. It encourages us to offer our best to God and seek the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit in all that we do.
