The People Bring More than Enough 1“So Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person are to carry out everything commanded by the LORD, who has given them skill and ability to know how to perform all the work of constructing the sanctuary.” 2Then Moses summoned Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person whom the LORD had gifted—everyone whose heart stirred him to come and do the work. 3They received from Moses all the contributions that the Israelites had brought to carry out the service of constructing the sanctuary. Meanwhile, the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning, 4so that all the skilled craftsmen who were doing all the work on the sanctuary left their work 5and said to Moses, “The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work the LORD has commanded us to do.” 6After Moses had given an order, they sent a proclamation throughout the camp: “No man or woman should make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary.” So the people were restrained from bringing more, 7since what they already had was more than enough to perform all the work. The Ten Curtains for the Tabernacle 8All the skilled craftsmen among the workmen made the ten curtains for the tabernacle. They were made of finely spun linen, as well as blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully worked into them. 9Each curtain was twenty-eight cubits long and four cubits wide;a all the curtains were the same size. 10And he joined five of the curtains together, and the other five he joined as well. 11He made loops of blue material on the edge of the end curtain in the first set, and also on the end curtain in the second set. 12He made fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops on the end curtain of the second set, so that the loops lined up opposite one another. 13He also made fifty gold clasps to join the curtains together, so that the tabernacle was a unit. The Eleven Curtains of Goat Hair 14He then made curtains of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle—eleven curtains in all. 15Each of the eleven curtains was the same size—thirty cubits long and four cubits wide.b 16He joined five of the curtains into one set and the other six into another. 17He made fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain in the first set, and fifty loops along the edge of the corresponding curtain in the second set. 18He also made fifty bronze clasps to join the tent together as a unit. 19Additionally, he made for the tent a covering of ram skins dyed red, and over that a covering of fine leather.c The Frames and Bases 20Next, he constructed upright frames of acacia wood for the tabernacle. 21Each frame was ten cubits long and a cubit and a half wide.d 22Two tenonse were connected to each other for each frame. He made all the frames of the tabernacle in this way. 23He constructed twenty frames for the south side of the tabernacle, 24with forty silver bases to put under the twenty frames—two bases for each frame, one under each tenon. 25For the second side of the tabernacle, the north side, he made twenty frames 26and forty silver bases—two bases under each frame. 27He made six frames for the rear of the tabernacle, the west side, 28and two frames for the two back corners of the tabernacle, 29coupled together from bottom to top and fitted into a single ring. He made both corners in this way. 30So there were eight frames and sixteen silver bases—two under each frame. 31He also made five crossbars of acacia wood for the frames on one side of the tabernacle, 32five for those on the other side, and five for those on the rear side of the tabernacle, to the west. 33He made the central crossbar to run through the center of the frames, from one end to the other. 34And he overlaid the frames with gold and made gold rings to hold the crossbars. He also overlaid the crossbars with gold. The Veil 35Next, he made the veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, with cherubim skillfully worked into it. 36He also made four posts of acacia wood for it and overlaid them with gold, along with gold hooks; and he cast four silver bases for the posts. The Curtain for the Entrance 37For the entrance to the tent, he made a curtain embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, 38together with five posts and their hooks. He overlaid the tops of the posts and their bands with gold, and their five bases were bronze. Footnotes: 9 a Each of the ten curtains was approximately 42 feet long and 6 feet wide (12.8 meters long and 1.8 meters wide). 15 b Each of the eleven curtains was approximately 45 feet long and 6 feet wide (13.7 meters long and 1.8 meters wide). 19 c Possibly the hides of large aquatic mammals 21 d Each frame was approximately 15 feet long and 2.25 feet wide (4.6 meters long and 68.6 centimeters wide). 22 e That is, projecting pieces of wood made for insertion into another piece; similarly in verse 24. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Exodus 36 Summary The People Bring More than EnoughVerses 1–7 – Spirit-Filled Craftsmen and Overflowing Gifts Verses 8–13 – The Inner Linen Curtains Verses 14–19 – The Goat Hair Tent and Protective Coverings Verses 20–30 – Upright Boards and Silver Bases Verses 31–34 – Crossbars Binding the Structure Verses 35–38 – The Veil and Entry Curtain In this deeply spiritual chapter, we witness the divine guidance of God and the collaboration of Bezalel, Oholiab, and the Israelites in constructing the sanctuary. It is a testimony to the spirit of generosity and the value of skilled craftsmanship, emphasizing the principle of community effort in accomplishing sacred duties. Skilled Hands Empowered by the Spirit Exodus 36 opens with God-gifted artisans. Earlier, the LORD said, “I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability” (Exodus 31:3). The same Spirit who hovered over creation now equips ordinary workers. Scripture repeats the theme: Solomon’s temple builders are likewise “endowed with skill” (1 Kings 7:13-14). In the New Covenant every believer receives gifts for building up the body (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). Craftsmanship, teaching, serving—all are Spirit-energized. Freewill Offerings that Surpassed Need The flow of gifts in verses 3-7 mirrors 2 Corinthians 9:7: “God loves a cheerful giver.” No tax is imposed; generosity wells up from willing hearts. The people give until asked to stop—an unheard-of moment in stewardship history! The overflow teaches that when hearts are captured by God’s plan, provision is no barrier (cf. Proverbs 3:9-10; Malachi 3:10). Textiles of Blue, Purple, and Scarlet: Color, Symbolism, and Ancient Dye Techniques Blue (from murex sea snails), purple (a deeper concentration of the same dye), and scarlet (obtained from insect resin) were enormously expensive. Israel’s former slaves now weave royal colors, reminding them they serve the King of heaven (Revelation 19:16). Cherubim patterns echo Genesis 3:24, where cherubim guard Eden’s way; here they guard the Holy of Holies, hinting that access to God is precious and protected. Goat Hair, Ram Skins, and Sea-Cow Hides: Protective Layers in a Harsh Desert Nomads across Sinai still weave coarse black goat hair for tents; it breathes yet repels rain—a practical choice. Rams’ skins dyed red may symbolize atonement, as blood covers sin (Leviticus 17:11). The outer hide, translated variously as “porpoise,” “manatee,” or simply “fine leather,” was tough enough to resist sun, wind, and sand. God’s dwelling is both beautiful and durable. Acacia Wood: Durable Timber with Theological Layers Acacia (likely Vachellia tortilis) thrives in arid zones, hard and insect-resistant. It pictures endurance; the upright boards stand through forty wilderness years. Jeremiah later calls Israel to be “a green olive tree, beautiful with good fruit” (Jeremiah 11:16). Likewise, believers are “living stones” or, here, living boards joined together (1 Peter 2:5; Ephesians 2:21-22). Silver Bases and Gold Plating: Precious Metals in Worship Silver speaks of redemption in many passages: Joseph is sold for twenty shekels (Genesis 37:28); Jesus for thirty pieces (Matthew 27:3-4). Each board rests on silver, a constant reminder that access to God stands on redemption. Gold, the metal of kings, coats the boards, crossbars, and pillars, reflecting the glory of God within. The Veil: Separation and Access – From Sinai to Calvary The veil marks the limit for everyone except the high priest once a year (Leviticus 16:2). Hebrews 9:8 notes, “The Holy Spirit was showing that the way into the Most Holy Place had not yet been disclosed.” At Jesus’ death “the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom” (Matthew 27:51), signaling open access. Believers now “enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus” (Hebrews 10:19-20). Archaeological Windows into Nomadic Sanctuaries Graves at Timna in southern Israel have yielded fragments of blue-dyed fabric from the Late Bronze Age, confirming that these royal hues existed in Moses’ time. Rock art in the Sinai and Midian regions shows portable shrine poles and curtains, supporting the plausibility of a movable sanctuary. Acacia wood beams dated by radiocarbon demonstrate the tree’s prevalence in the area, matching Exodus’ material list. Interlocking with the Broader Pentateuch • Genesis set the stage with God walking among His people in Eden. • Exodus builds the tent where He will once more “dwell among them” (Exodus 25:8). • Leviticus explains how sinful humans can survive His holy presence. • Numbers shows the tent on the move, central in camp order (Numbers 2:17). • Deuteronomy looks forward to a permanent place (Deuteronomy 12:5). Each book advances the account of God coming near. Echoes in the Prophets and New Testament Isaiah dreams of a future day when the LORD will create “a shelter for shade” over Zion (Isaiah 4:5-6). John celebrates that “the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us” (John 1:14, literal Greek). Revelation ends with “the dwelling place of God is with man” (Revelation 21:3). The tabernacle blueprint points all the way to the new heaven and earth. Timeless Takeaways for the Church 1. God values skill and craftsmanship; creative work is worship. 2. Generosity flows best when people see a clear vision of God’s dwelling among them. 3. Beauty and practicality can coexist; the tabernacle is artistic yet portable. 4. Redemption undergirds every approach to God—silver bases first, then gold. 5. The torn veil urges boldness; believers live on the holy side of the curtain now. Exodus 36, rich with seams, clasps, and crossbars, sews together history and hope, calling God’s people to build lives where His presence comfortably rests. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Corinthians 12:4-7Highlights the diversity of gifts given by the Spirit for the common good, similar to the skills given to the craftsmen in Exodus 36. 2 Corinthians 9:7 Encourages cheerful giving, reflecting the generous spirit of the Israelites. Colossians 3:23-24 Reminds us to work heartily as for the Lord, aligning with the dedication of the craftsmen in constructing the Tabernacle. Teaching Points God's Provision of Skills and WisdomBezalel and Oholiab, and every skilled person to whom the LORD has given skill and understanding to know how to perform all the work of constructing the sanctuary, shall carry out all that the LORD has commanded (Exodus 36:1). God equips His people with the necessary skills and wisdom to fulfill His commands. Generosity of the People The Israelites brought freewill offerings every morning until the craftsmen reported, The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work the LORD has commanded us to do (Exodus 36:5). This demonstrates the overflowing generosity and willingness of the community to support God's work. Order and Organization Moses gave an order to stop bringing offerings because there was more than enough (Exodus 36:6-7). This shows the importance of organization and stewardship in managing resources for God's work. Attention to Detail The chapter details the specific materials and measurements used in the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of following God's instructions precisely. Practical Applications Use Your God-Given TalentsRecognize and utilize the skills and talents God has given you to serve His purposes and build His kingdom. Cultivate a Generous Spirit Be willing to give generously of your time, resources, and abilities to support the work of the church and community. Practice Good Stewardship Manage resources wisely and ensure that contributions are used effectively for God's work. Follow God's Instructions Pay attention to the details of God's Word and strive to obey His commands in every aspect of life. People 1. BezalelBezalel is mentioned as a skilled craftsman filled with the Spirit of God, endowed with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship. He is the chief artisan responsible for overseeing the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. His name in Hebrew, בְּצַלְאֵל (Betsal'el), means "in the shadow of God." 2. Oholiab Oholiab is described as an assistant to Bezalel, also endowed with skill and ability to work on the Tabernacle. He is from the tribe of Dan. His name in Hebrew, אָהֳלִיאָב ('Oholi'av), means "father's tent." Places Exodus 36 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention any geographical places. This chapter primarily focuses on the construction of the Tabernacle and the contributions of the Israelites towards this effort. It details the work of Bezalel, Oholiab, and other skilled craftsmen in building the Tabernacle according to God's instructions. Since there are no specific places mentioned in this chapter, a numbered list of places cannot be provided. If you have any other questions or need further information, feel free to ask!Events 1. Bezalel and Oholiab's AppointmentBezalel and Oholiab, along with every skilled person whom the LORD had given ability, were appointed to carry out the work of constructing the sanctuary. This highlights the divine selection and empowerment of craftsmen (Exodus 36:1). 2. Freewill Offerings from the Israelites The Israelites continued to bring freewill offerings every morning for the work of the sanctuary. This reflects the community's generosity and willingness to contribute to God's dwelling place (Exodus 36:3). 3. Abundance of Materials The craftsmen reported to Moses that the people were bringing more than enough materials for the work. This abundance signifies God's provision and the people's eagerness to support the sacred project (Exodus 36:5). 4. Moses' Command to Cease Contributions Moses issued a command that no man or woman should make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary, as there was already more than enough. This demonstrates good stewardship and the importance of managing resources wisely (Exodus 36:6-7). 5. Construction of the Tabernacle Curtains Skilled workers made the curtains of the Tabernacle from finely twisted linen and blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim woven into them. This intricate work reflects the beauty and holiness of the Tabernacle (Exodus 36:8). 6. Making of the Curtains of Goats' Hair Eleven curtains of goats' hair were made to serve as a tent over the Tabernacle. This layer provided additional protection and insulation (Exodus 36:14). 7. Creation of the Coverings and Frames The craftsmen made coverings of ram skins dyed red and another covering of durable leather, along with frames of acacia wood to support the Tabernacle. These elements ensured the structure's durability and sacredness (Exodus 36:19-20). 8. Construction of the Crossbars and Veil Crossbars were made to hold the frames together, and a special veil was crafted to separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. This veil symbolized the separation between God and humanity, which would later be torn at Christ's crucifixion (Exodus 36:31, 35). Topics 1. Appointment of Skilled Artisans (Exodus 36:1-2)Bezalel and Oholiab, along with other skilled craftsmen, are appointed to carry out the work of constructing the Tabernacle. This highlights the importance of God-given skills and talents in fulfilling divine purposes. The Hebrew root for "skilled" (חָכַם, chakam) emphasizes wisdom and expertise. 2. Generous Contributions from the Israelites (Exodus 36:3-7) The Israelites bring more than enough materials for the work, demonstrating their willingness and generosity. The Hebrew word for "willing" (נָדִיב, nadiv) reflects a voluntary and generous spirit, which is crucial in the service of God. 3. Construction of the Tabernacle Curtains (Exodus 36:8-13) The artisans make the curtains of fine twisted linen and blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully worked into them. This section underscores the beauty and holiness of the Tabernacle, as the cherubim symbolize divine presence. 4. Making of the Curtains of Goats' Hair (Exodus 36:14-18) Additional curtains made of goats' hair are crafted for the tent over the Tabernacle. The use of goats' hair, a more durable material, signifies protection and practicality in the Tabernacle's design. 5. Construction of the Tabernacle Coverings (Exodus 36:19) Coverings of ram skins dyed red and another layer of durable leather are made for the Tabernacle. These coverings provide further protection and signify the layers of sanctity and separation from the outside world. 6. Making of the Frames for the Tabernacle (Exodus 36:20-30) The frames are constructed from acacia wood, emphasizing stability and endurance. The Hebrew term for "acacia" (שִׁטָּה, shittah) is associated with incorruptibility, reflecting the eternal nature of God's dwelling. 7. Construction of the Crossbars (Exodus 36:31-34) Crossbars are made to hold the frames together, ensuring the structure's integrity. This section highlights the importance of unity and support within the community of believers. 8. Making of the Veil and the Curtain for the Entrance (Exodus 36:35-38) The veil and entrance curtain are crafted with artistic design, separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. The veil represents the barrier between God and humanity, which is later symbolically torn at Christ's crucifixion, as noted in the New Testament. Themes 1. Willingness to Give and ServeExodus 36 highlights the Israelites' willingness to contribute to the construction of the Tabernacle. The people gave freely and abundantly, demonstrating a heart inclined towards generosity and service. This theme is rooted in the Hebrew word "נָדַב" (nadav), meaning to offer willingly or voluntarily, as seen in Exodus 36:3-5, where the people brought more than enough materials for the work. 2. Skill and Wisdom in Craftsmanship The chapter emphasizes the importance of skill and wisdom in the work of building the Tabernacle. Bezalel and Oholiab, along with other skilled craftsmen, were endowed with wisdom and understanding to carry out the intricate work. The Hebrew word "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), meaning wisdom, is used to describe the God-given ability to perform the tasks (Exodus 36:1-2). 3. Obedience to Divine Instructions The construction of the Tabernacle was carried out according to the specific instructions given by God to Moses. This theme underscores the importance of obedience to divine commands, as the craftsmen followed the detailed plans provided by God (Exodus 36:1). The Hebrew root "צָוָה" (tsavah), meaning to command, reflects the adherence to God's directives. 4. God's Provision and Abundance The abundance of materials provided by the Israelites illustrates God's provision. The people brought so much that Moses had to restrain them from bringing more (Exodus 36:6-7). This theme is connected to the Hebrew concept of "שָׁפַע" (shafah), meaning abundance or overflow, highlighting God's ability to provide more than enough for His purposes. 5. Community Participation and Unity The collective effort of the Israelites in contributing to the Tabernacle's construction demonstrates the theme of community participation and unity. The entire community was involved, each person contributing according to their ability and resources (Exodus 36:3-4). This reflects the Hebrew idea of "עֵדָה" (edah), meaning congregation or community, working together for a common goal. 6. Holiness and Sacredness of the Tabernacle The meticulous attention to detail in the construction of the Tabernacle underscores its holiness and sacredness. The Tabernacle was to be a dwelling place for God among His people, and every aspect of its construction was to reflect its divine purpose (Exodus 36:8-38). The Hebrew word "קֹדֶשׁ" (qodesh), meaning holiness, is central to understanding the sacred nature of the Tabernacle. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Exodus 36:3–5, how is it possible for a nomadic people in the wilderness to possess and contribute such abundant resources? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Why is the detail in the description of the sanctuary's construction significant in this chapter? How does this detail contribute to your understanding of the text? 2. How does the role of Bezalel and Oholiab in the construction of the sanctuary reflect on the value of skills and crafts in spiritual activities? 3. In what ways does the Israelite's willingness to contribute freewill offerings reflect their relationship with God? How can this be applied to our modern-day offerings or tithing practices? 4. How do you interpret the command for the people to stop bringing offerings? What does this tell you about the nature of God and His desires for His people? 5. How can the concept of 'freewill offerings' be applied in our everyday lives outside of a religious context? 6. What does the construction of the sanctuary teach us about the concept of sacred space in our lives? 7. How can the detailed craftsmanship described in the passage be used as a metaphor for our own spiritual lives? 8. How does the communal effort in constructing the sanctuary reflect on the importance of community in spiritual growth? 9. How can we apply the concept of a Sabbath, a day of rest, in our current, busy lifestyles? 10. In what ways can the spirit of generosity exhibited by the Israelites inspire us in our personal and community life? 11. How does the passage reflect on the interplay of divine inspiration and human execution? 12. How can we use our personal talents and skills, like Bezalel and Oholiab, in the service of God and our communities? 13. In what ways is the sanctuary, as described, a physical representation of God's glory? 14. How do you interpret the presence of beauty and art in the construction of the sanctuary? What does it tell us about the role of art in our worship and reverence to God? 15. What can we learn from the obedience of the Israelites to God's command in terms of our personal faith? 16. How does the detail-oriented nature of God's instructions shape your understanding of His nature? 17. In what ways can the concept of a 'sanctuary' be created within our own lives or homes? 18. How does the principle of freewill offering differ from giving out of obligation, and how can we embody this principle? 19. What can we learn about the value of shared purpose and cooperation from this chapter? 20. How can we integrate the practice of honoring God in the detailed aspects of our lives, as Bezalel and Oholiab did in their craftsmanship? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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