Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version with him was Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan—an engraver and designer, and an embroiderer in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen.) New Living Translation He was assisted by Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, a craftsman expert at engraving, designing, and embroidering with blue, purple, and scarlet thread on fine linen cloth. English Standard Version and with him was Oholiab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver and designer and embroiderer in blue and purple and scarlet yarns and fine twined linen. Berean Standard Bible With him was Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, designer, and embroiderer in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen. King James Bible And with him was Aholiab, son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, and a cunning workman, and an embroiderer in blue, and in purple, and in scarlet, and fine linen. New King James Version And with him was Aholiab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver and designer, a weaver of blue, purple, and scarlet thread, and of fine linen. New American Standard Bible With him was Oholiab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver and a skilled embroiderer, and a weaver in violet, in purple, and in scarlet material, and fine linen. NASB 1995 With him was Oholiab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver and a skillful workman and a weaver in blue and in purple and in scarlet material, and fine linen. NASB 1977 And with him was Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver and a skillful workman and a weaver in blue and in purple and in scarlet material, and fine linen. Legacy Standard Bible With him was Oholiab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, a craftsman and a skillful designer and a weaver in blue and in purple and in scarlet material and fine linen. Amplified Bible With him was Oholiab the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver and a skillful craftsman and an embroiderer in blue and in purple and in scarlet fabric, and in fine linen. Christian Standard Bible With him was Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, a gem cutter, a designer, and an embroiderer with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen. Holman Christian Standard Bible With him was Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, a gem cutter, a designer, and an embroiderer with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen. American Standard Version And with him was Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, and a skilful workman, and an embroiderer in blue, and in purple, and in scarlet, and in fine linen. English Revised Version And with him was Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, and a cunning workman, and an embroiderer in blue, and in purple, and in scarlet, and fine linen. GOD'S WORD® Translation He was a jeweler, carpenter, designer, and he knew how to embroider violet, purple, and bright red yarn on fine linen. His assistant was Oholiab, son of Ahisamach, from the tribe of Dan. Good News Translation His helper, Oholiab son of Ahisamach, from the tribe of Dan, was an engraver, a designer, and a weaver of fine linen and of blue, purple, and red wool. International Standard Version With him was Ahisamach's son Oholiab from the tribe of Dan, an engraver, designer, and embroiderer in blue, purple, and scarlet material, and of fine linen. NET Bible and with him was Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an artisan, a designer, and an embroiderer in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen. New Heart English Bible With him was Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, and a skillful workman, and an embroiderer in blue, in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen. Webster's Bible Translation And with him was Aholiab, son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, and a skillful workman, and an embroiderer in blue, and in purple, and in scarlet, and fine linen. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleWith him was Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, designer, and embroiderer in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen. World English Bible With him was Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, and a skillful workman, and an embroiderer in blue, in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen. Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionand with him [is] Aholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, and designer and embroiderer in blue, and in purple, and in scarlet, and in linen. Young's Literal Translation and with him is Aholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, and designer, and embroiderer in blue, and in purple, and in scarlet, and in linen. Smith's Literal Translation And with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver and an artificer, and variegator in cerulean purple, and in red purple, and in double scarlet, and in byssus. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleHaving for his companion Ooliab the son of Achisamech of the tribe of Dan: who also was an excellent artificer in wood, and worker in tapestry and embroidery in violet, purple, scarlet, and fine linen. Catholic Public Domain Version He was joined by his associate, Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, from the tribe of Dan, who himself was also an exceptional artisan of wood, and of weaving, as well as of embroidery, with hyacinth, purple, vermillion, and fine linen. New American Bible and he was assisted by Oholiab, son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, who was an engraver, an embroiderer, and a weaver of variegated cloth of violet, purple, and scarlet yarn and of fine linen. New Revised Standard Version and with him was Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, engraver, designer, and embroiderer in blue, purple, and crimson yarns, and in fine linen. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd with him was Elihab, the son of Ahisamakh, of the tribe of Dan, a carpenter, and a craftsman, and an embroiderer in blue, and in purple, and in scarlet material, and in fine linen. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And with him, Elihab son of Akhisamak, from the tribe of Dan, a Carpenter and Craftsman and Embroiderer in blue fringes and in purple, and with dye of scarlet, and in fine white linen. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917And with him was Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, a craftsman, and a skilful workman, and a weaver in colours, in blue, and in purple, and in scarlet, and fine linen.-- Brenton Septuagint Translation And Eliab the son of Achisamach of the tribe of Dan was there, who was chief artificer in the woven works and needle-works and embroideries, in weaving with the scarlet and fine linen. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context The Cost of the Tabernacle…22Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, made everything that the LORD had commanded Moses. 23With him was Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, designer, and embroiderer in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen. 24All the gold from the wave offering used for the work on the sanctuary totaled 29 talents and 730 shekels, according to the sanctuary shekel.… Cross References Exodus 31:2-6 “See, I have called by name Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. / And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship, / to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, ... Exodus 35:30-35 Then Moses said to the Israelites, “See, the LORD has called by name Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. / And He has filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship, / to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, ... 1 Kings 7:13-14 Now King Solomon sent to bring Huram from Tyre. / He was the son of a widow from the tribe of Naphtali, and his father was a man of Tyre, a craftsman in bronze. Huram had great skill, understanding, and knowledge for every kind of bronze work. So he came to King Solomon and carried out all his work. 2 Chronicles 2:13-14 So now I am sending you Huram-abi, a skillful man endowed with creativity. / He is the son of a woman from the daughters of Dan, and his father is a man of Tyre. He is skilled in work with gold and silver, bronze and iron, stone and wood, purple, blue, and crimson yarn, and fine linen. He is experienced in every kind of engraving and can execute any design that is given him. He will work with your craftsmen and with those of my lord, your father David. 2 Chronicles 4:11-16 Additionally, Huram made the pots, shovels, and sprinkling bowls. So Huram finished the work that he had undertaken for King Solomon in the house of God: / the two pillars; the two bowl-shaped capitals atop the pillars; the two sets of network covering both bowls of the capitals atop the pillars; / the four hundred pomegranates for the two sets of network (two rows of pomegranates for each network covering both the bowl-shaped capitals atop the pillars); ... Isaiah 28:24-29 Does the plowman plow for planting every day? Does he continuously loosen and harrow the soil? / When he has leveled its surface, does he not sow caraway and scatter cumin? He plants wheat in rows and barley in plots, and rye within its border. / For his God instructs and teaches him properly. ... Proverbs 22:29 Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will be stationed in the presence of kings; he will not stand before obscure men. 1 Chronicles 22:15-16 You also have many workers: stonecutters, masons, carpenters, and men skilled in every kind of work— / in gold and silver, bronze and iron—craftsmen beyond number. Now begin the work, and may the LORD be with you.” 1 Chronicles 28:20-21 David also said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous, and do it. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will neither fail you nor forsake you before all the work for the service of the house of the LORD is finished. / The divisions of the priests and Levites are ready for all the service of the house of God, and every willing man of every skill will be at your disposal for the work. The officials and all the people are fully at your command.” 2 Timothy 2:20-21 A large house contains not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay. Some indeed are for honorable use, but others are for common use. / So if anyone cleanses himself of what is unfit, he will be a vessel for honor: sanctified, useful to the Master, and prepared for every good work. 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. / There are different ministries, but the same Lord. / There are different ways of working, but the same God works all things in all people. ... Romans 12:6-8 We have different gifts according to the grace given us. If one’s gift is prophecy, let him use it in proportion to his faith; / if it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; / if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is giving, let him give generously; if it is leading, let him lead with diligence; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. Ephesians 4:11-12 And it was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, / to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ, Colossians 3:23-24 Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, as for the Lord and not for men, / because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Matthew 25:14-30 For it is just like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted them with his possessions. / To one he gave five talents, to another two talents, and to another one talent—each according to his own ability. And he went on his journey. / The servant who had received the five talents went at once and put them to work and gained five more. ... Treasury of Scripture And with him was Aholiab, son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, and a cunning workman, and an embroiderer in blue, and in purple, and in scarlet, and fine linen. Aholiab Exodus 35:34 And he hath put in his heart that he may teach, both he, and Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan. a cunning Exodus 35:34 And he hath put in his heart that he may teach, both he, and Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan. Jump to Previous Ahisamach Ahis'amach Aholiab Artificer Blue Colours Craftsman Cunning Dan Designer Embroiderer Engraver Expert Fine Linen Material Needlework Oholiab Oho'liab Purple Red Scarlet Skilful Skillful Stuff Trained Tribe Twined Weaver WorkmanJump to Next Ahisamach Ahis'amach Aholiab Artificer Blue Colours Craftsman Cunning Dan Designer Embroiderer Engraver Expert Fine Linen Material Needlework Oholiab Oho'liab Purple Red Scarlet Skilful Skillful Stuff Trained Tribe Twined Weaver WorkmanExodus 38 1. The altar of burnt offering8. The laver of brass 9. The court, and its hangings 21. The sum of what the people offered, and the use to which it was applied With him was Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan Oholiab is introduced as a skilled craftsman working alongside Bezalel in the construction of the Tabernacle. The mention of his lineage, "son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan," highlights the diverse representation of the tribes of Israel in the Tabernacle's construction. The tribe of Dan, traditionally known for its craftsmanship, is significant here, as it shows that God equips individuals from all tribes for His purposes. This collaboration between Bezalel from the tribe of Judah and Oholiab from Dan symbolizes unity among the tribes in the service of God. an engraver, designer, and embroiderer in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen Persons / Places / Events 1. OholiabA skilled craftsman from the tribe of Dan, Oholiab was appointed to assist Bezalel in the construction of the Tabernacle. His talents included craftsmanship, design, and embroidery, particularly in the sacred colors of blue, purple, and scarlet. 2. Ahisamach The father of Oholiab, mentioned here to establish Oholiab's lineage and tribal affiliation with the tribe of Dan. 3. Tribe of Dan One of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its craftsmen and artisans. The inclusion of Oholiab from this tribe highlights the diverse contributions of different tribes to the construction of the Tabernacle. 4. Craftsmanship and Design The skills attributed to Oholiab emphasize the importance of artistic and skilled labor in the service of God, particularly in the creation of sacred spaces. 5. Tabernacle Construction The broader context of this verse is the construction of the Tabernacle, a central place of worship for the Israelites, symbolizing God's presence among His people. Teaching Points God Values Skilled WorkThe appointment of Oholiab underscores that God values and uses skilled labor for His purposes. Our talents and skills can be dedicated to His service. Diversity in Service Oholiab's inclusion from the tribe of Dan shows that God calls people from diverse backgrounds to contribute to His work. Every tribe and talent has a place in God's plan. Artistry in Worship The detailed craftsmanship in the Tabernacle reminds us that beauty and artistry have a place in worship. We can honor God through creativity and excellence in our work. Divine Appointment Just as Oholiab was chosen for a specific task, we are also called to specific roles in God's kingdom. Recognizing and embracing our calling is crucial. Collaboration in Ministry Oholiab worked alongside Bezalel, illustrating the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving God's purposes. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Exodus 38:23?2. How does Exodus 38:23 highlight the importance of skilled craftsmanship in God's work? 3. What role did Bezalel and Oholiab play in constructing the Tabernacle? 4. How can we apply the dedication of Bezalel and Oholiab in our lives? 5. What does Exodus 38:23 teach about using God-given talents for His glory? 6. How does this verse connect to the New Testament teachings on spiritual gifts? 7. What role did Oholiab play in the construction of the Tabernacle in Exodus 38:23? 8. How does Exodus 38:23 reflect the importance of craftsmanship in biblical times? 9. Why is the mention of Oholiab's skills significant in Exodus 38:23? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Exodus 38? 11. Who were Bezalel and Oholiab in the Bible? 12. How do the measurements and quantities listed in Exodus 38:21-23 harmonize with other parts of Exodus and Numbers that detail Israel's population and resources? 13. How can 'tongues of fire' (Acts 2:3) be scientifically or physically explained? 14. Psalm 73:27 proclaims God will destroy the unfaithful--how does this align with the New Testament emphasis on love and redemption? What Does Exodus 38:23 Mean With him was Oholiab“with him was Oholiab” (Exodus 38:23) draws our gaze to the partnership God ordained for the tabernacle’s construction. Bezalel (Exodus 31:1–5) carried overall responsibility, yet God supplied Oholiab to work “with him,” emphasizing that sacred work is seldom a solo venture. • Moses had Aaron (Exodus 4:14). • Joshua fought while Moses prayed (Exodus 17:10–12). • In the New Testament, Paul ministered with Barnabas, Silas, or Timothy (Acts 13:2; 16:4). The verse reminds us that service is strengthened when God-appointed coworkers labor side by side (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10). son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan Identifying Oholiab’s lineage anchors the account in real history (Genesis 46:23; 1 Chronicles 2:2). The tribe of Dan was one of the smaller, often overlooked tribes (Deuteronomy 33:22), yet here God elevates a Danite to national prominence. That pattern repeats throughout Scripture: • Gideon from weak Manasseh (Judges 6:15). • David, the youngest son of Jesse (1 Samuel 16:11–13). It underlines 1 Corinthians 1:27—God delights to use those the world might bypass, proving that glory belongs to Him alone. an engraver, designer, and embroiderer Oholiab’s gifts are listed in three distinct areas: • Engraver—cutting stone or carving metal (Exodus 28:11). • Designer—drafting patterns and structures (Exodus 31:6). • Embroiderer—working delicate needle-craft for curtains and priestly garments (Exodus 26:1; 28:39). These skills were not self-invented; Exodus 31:6 says God “put wisdom in the hearts of all the skilled.” The Spirit still equips believers with diverse abilities for the body’s benefit (Romans 12:4–8; 1 Peter 4:10). No talent is “secular” when offered to the Lord. in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen The materials match God’s exact specifications (Exodus 25:4; 26:1). • Blue signified heaven’s realm (Numbers 15:38–39). • Purple, a royal hue, pointed to kingship (Judges 8:26; John 19:2). • Scarlet spoke of sacrifice and atonement (Leviticus 14:4; Hebrews 9:19). • Fine linen symbolized purity (Revelation 19:8). Through these colors woven by Oholiab, the tabernacle silently preached the gospel: the holy God dwelling with His people through royal grace and sacrificial blood, foreshadowing Christ (John 1:14; Hebrews 8:5). summary Exodus 38:23 spotlights Oholiab as a Spirit-gifted artisan partnered with Bezalel. Though from a modest tribe, he was empowered to engrave, design, and embroider intricate, symbol-laden materials for God’s dwelling place. The verse showcases divine teamwork, the elevation of humble servants, Spirit-given skills, and Christ-centered symbolism—all testifying that every ability and detail belongs to the Lord’s grand redemptive plan. (23) Aholiab . . . an engraver.--This is a mistranslation. Kharash means a worker in any material whatsoever. It should be rendered artificer, as it is in 1Chronicles 29:5; 2Chronicles 34:11.A cunning workman.--Literally, a deviser; but the root is used especially of the devising of textile fabrics. (See Exodus 26:1; Exodus 26:31; Exodus 28:6; Exodus 28:15; Exodus 36:8; Exodus 36:35; Exodus 39:3, &c.) . . . Verse 23. - Aholiab's special gifts are here pointed out. He was1. An artificer (a general term with no special application); 2. A skilled weaver; and 3. An embroiderer. . . . Hebrew With him [was]וְאִתּ֗וֹ (wə·’it·tōw) Conjunctive waw | Preposition | third person masculine singular Strong's 854: Nearness, near, with, by, at, among Aholiab אָהֳלִיאָ֞ב (’ā·ho·lî·’āḇ) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 171: Oholiab -- 'father's tent', an assistant of Bezalel son בֶּן־ (ben-) Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 1121: A son of Ahisamach, אֲחִיסָמָ֛ךְ (’ă·ḥî·sā·māḵ) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 294: Ahisamach -- 'my brother has supported', an Israelite of the tribe לְמַטֵּה־ (lə·maṭ·ṭêh-) Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 4294: A staff, rod, shaft, branch, a tribe of Dan, דָ֖ן (ḏān) Noun - proper - masculine singular Strong's 1835: Dan -- 'judge', a son of Jacob, also a place in Northern Israel an engraver, חָרָ֣שׁ (ḥā·rāš) Noun - masculine singular Strong's 2796: A fabricator, any material designer, וְחֹשֵׁ֑ב (wə·ḥō·šêḇ) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular Strong's 2803: To think, account and embroiderer וְרֹקֵ֗ם (wə·rō·qêm) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular Strong's 7551: To variegate color, embroider, to fabricate in blue, בַּתְּכֵ֙לֶת֙ (bat·tə·ḵê·leṯ) Preposition-b, Article | Noun - feminine singular Strong's 8504: The cerulean mussel, the color, obtained therefrom, stuff dyed therewith purple, וּבָֽאַרְגָּמָ֔ן (ū·ḇā·’ar·gā·mān) Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b, Article | Noun - masculine singular Strong's 713: Purple, red-purple and scarlet yarn וּבְתוֹלַ֥עַת (ū·ḇə·ṯō·w·la·‘aṯ) Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b | Noun - feminine singular construct Strong's 8438: The crimson-grub, of the color, from it, cloths dyed therewith and fine linen. וּבַשֵּֽׁשׁ׃ (ū·ḇaš·šêš) Conjunctive waw, Preposition-b, Article | Noun - masculine singular Strong's 8336: Bleached stuff, white linen, marble Links Exodus 38:23 NIVExodus 38:23 NLT Exodus 38:23 ESV Exodus 38:23 NASB Exodus 38:23 KJV Exodus 38:23 BibleApps.com Exodus 38:23 Biblia Paralela Exodus 38:23 Chinese Bible Exodus 38:23 French Bible Exodus 38:23 Catholic Bible OT Law: Exodus 38:23 With him was Oholiab the son (Exo. Ex) |