with skill
The Hebrew word for "skill" here can also be translated as "wisdom." This is not merely technical ability but includes insight and discernment. In the context of the tabernacle's construction, it implies a God-given understanding of how to create objects that reflect divine beauty and order. This wisdom is akin to that given to Solomon for the building of the temple (1 Kings 4:29-34).

ability
This term suggests competence and proficiency in executing tasks. It implies that the individual is not only knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively. This ability is a gift from God, ensuring that the work done is of the highest quality, reflecting God's own perfection and excellence.

and knowledge
Knowledge here refers to an understanding of materials, techniques, and processes necessary for craftsmanship. It is comprehensive, covering all aspects required for the task. This knowledge is divinely imparted, ensuring that the work aligns with God's specific instructions for the tabernacle, as detailed in earlier chapters of Exodus.

in all kinds of craftsmanship
This phrase encompasses a wide range of artistic and technical skills, including metalwork, woodwork, weaving, and embroidery. The craftsmanship required for the tabernacle was intricate and detailed, reflecting the glory and holiness of God. This mirrors the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ, as described in 1 Corinthians 12, where each member is equipped for different roles to build up the church.

• The “I” is the Lord Himself, personally taking the initiative. This is not human self-improvement; it is divine impartation (cf. Exodus 35:31 “He has filled him…,” Jeremiah 1:5 “Before I formed you…I appointed you,” Ephesians 2:10 “we are His workmanship”).

• God singles out Bezalel by name (Exodus 31:2), confirming that each believer’s calling is intentional and specific (Romans 12:4-6).

• The same Spirit who hovered over creation (Genesis 1:2) now empowers creative work.

• “He has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability” (Exodus 35:31) echoes this phrase, underscoring that the Holy Spirit equips for both spiritual and practical tasks.

• Isaiah 11:2 lists a seven-fold description of that Spirit—wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and the fear of the Lord—showing that craftsmanship stands shoulder-to-shoulder with prophetic and kingly gifting.

• Zechariah 4:6 reminds us the work is “not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” so success rests on dependence, not talent alone.

• 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 affirms that “the same Spirit” distributes diverse gifts “for the common good.”

• Skill (often translated “wisdom” or “expertise”) is the practical know-how to turn raw materials into beauty. Proverbs 2:6 “the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” links wisdom to God’s revelation.

• Exodus 28:3 shows God filling artisans “to make Aaron’s garments,” proving that skillful hands advance worship.

• 1 Kings 7:13-14 highlights Hiram’s God-given skill to craft temple furnishings; this continuity affirms divine interest in artistry.

• Ability adds capacity—strength, ingenuity, resourcefulness. Daniel and his friends received “knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom” (Daniel 1:17), showing God can enlarge natural aptitude.

• Romans 12:6 “having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us” anchors ability in grace, not ego.

• 2 Timothy 2:21 speaks of being “useful to the Master, prepared for every good work,” urging stewardship of God-given capability.

• Knowledge supplies the mental grasp of processes, measurements, and details. Proverbs 9:10 “knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” roots even technical know-how in relationship with God.

• Colossians 1:9 prays believers be “filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,” blending the practical and the spiritual.

• James 3:17 contrasts heavenly wisdom—“pure, peace-loving, considerate”—with earthly ambition, reminding us knowledge must serve God’s glory, not personal pride.

• God’s filling covers “all kinds” of work: designing, cutting stones, carving wood, and more (Exodus 31:4-5). No trade is too ordinary to be Spirit-empowered.

• Exodus 36:1-2 notes that everyone “whose heart the Lord had stirred” joined the project, displaying a community of Spirit-led artisans.

• Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord” ties New-Covenant labor back to this Exodus pattern.

Exodus 31:3 shows God personally equipping Bezalel for the tabernacle by pouring out His Spirit, granting skill, ability, and knowledge for every craft. The verse teaches that practical work is sacred when Spirit-directed, that gifts come from God’s initiative, and that every detail of worship—artistic or architectural—rests on divine empowerment. What God calls us to build, He also supplies the power to accomplish.

In wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge.--By "wisdom" is probably meant the power to invent and originate artistic forms; by "understanding," the ability to appreciate artistic suggestions received from others; by "knowledge," acquaintance with the methods and processes of art. Bezaleel was to possess all these gifts.

In all manner of workmanship.--He was also to possess that wonderful dexterity of hand on which the power of artistic execution mainly depends.