Exodus 35:7

And rams’ skins dyed red, and badgers’ skins, and shittim wood,

Exodus 35:7 (KJV)

Context

The book of Exodus recounts the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt, led by Moses under God’s guidance. After their deliverance, God called Moses up to Mount Sinai and gave him the Ten Commandments and various laws for the people. Among these laws were instructions for building the Tabernacle, a place of worship and the center of Israelite religious life during their wilderness journey. The Tabernacle was a sacred tent consisting of two main sections—the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (also known as the Holy of Holies). It was to be constructed with specific materials and dimensions as specified by God.

Exodus 35:7 lists materials the Israelites were to bring for constructing the Tabernacle: rams’ skins dyed red, badgers’ skins, and shittim wood. This verse is part of the larger narrative of God’s instructions to Moses for the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary for worship during the wilderness journey. The same materials are listed in the earlier instructions in Exodus 25:5, and their use is confirmed in the construction accounts of Exodus 26:14, 36:19, and 39:34, where rams’ skins dyed red and badgers’ skins are described as coverings for the tent.

Meaning

The rams’ skins dyed red were a protective covering layer for the Tabernacle. The color red symbolizes blood and sacrifice, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The identity of the animal for “badgers’ skins” is uncertain; translations vary, suggesting “fine leather,” “sea cow hides,” “manatee skins,” “goatskins,” or “porpoise skins.” Regardless of the exact animal, these skins provided another layer of protection. Shittim wood, also known as acacia wood, was a type of wood highly valued for its durability and resistance to decay. God instructed the Israelites to use shittim wood in various aspects of constructing the Tabernacle, including the framework, the Ark of the Covenant, the table, and the altars. It was used for the tabernacle’s framework, walls, pillars, and furnishings, representing strength and stability.

The materials used, including the rams’ skins dyed red, badgers’ skins, and the shittim wood, highlighted the importance of offering the best to God and adorning His sanctuary with excellence. The people’s willing offering of these specific materials demonstrates their obedience to God’s detailed plan for His dwelling place.

Application

Giving our best to God—just as the Israelites were called to offer their finest materials and craftsmanship for the Tabernacle, we are reminded to give our best to God in all aspects of our lives—our time, talents, resources, and worship. God gifted various people with craftsmanship and skill to contribute to the building of the Tabernacle. Similarly, we are each uniquely gifted by God, and we should use our talents to serve Him and others.

Reflection

Overall, Exodus 35:7 and the surrounding context emphasize the importance of reverence, giving our best to God, and recognizing that He desires to dwell among His people. It serves as a reminder for us to devote our lives and offerings to God with a willing and obedient heart.