Exodus 36
Berean Study Bible

The People Bring More than Enough

“So Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person

Bezalel of Judah and Oholiab of Dan led the craftsmen appointed for the Tabernacle, showing that the work involved men from across Israel. Others joined them according to the abilities God had provided.

Exo 31:1-6 Then the LORD said to Moses,…
Exo 35:30-31 Then Moses said to the Israelites, “See, the LORD has…
Exo 28:3 You are to instruct all the skilled craftsmen,…

are to carry out everything commanded by the LORD,

The Tabernacle was built according to the pattern God gave Moses, not according to the craftsmen’s own designs. Their responsibility was faithful execution of every instruction.

Exo 39:42-43 The Israelites had done all the work just as the LORD…
Exo 40:16 Moses did everything just as the LORD had commanded him.
Deu 12:32 See that you do everything I command you;…

who has given them skill and ability

Their artistic and practical abilities came from God, who prepared them for the particular demands of the work.

Exo 35:32-35 to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze,…
2Ch 2:13-14 So now I am sending you Huram-abi, a skillful man…
1Ki 7:13-14 Now King Solomon sent to bring Huram from Tyre.…

to know how to perform all the work

They possessed both craftsmanship and the wisdom necessary to complete the varied tasks of weaving, carving, metalwork, and construction.

Exo 35:10-11 Let every skilled craftsman among you come and make…
2Ch 2:7-8 Send me, therefore, a craftsman skilled in engraving…
1Ch 28:11-12 Then David gave his son Solomon the plans…

of constructing the sanctuary.”

The sanctuary was Israel’s appointed place of worship, where the Lord would dwell among His covenant people and where sacrifices would be offered according to His command.

Exo 25:8-9 And they are to make a sanctuary for Me,…
Exo 26:30 So you are to set up the tabernacle according to the pattern…
Heb 8:5 The place where they serve is a copy and shadow…

Then Moses summoned Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person

Moses gathered the craftsmen appointed for the Tabernacle’s construction. Bezalel of Judah and Oholiab of Dan worked alongside other capable Israelites, showing that the work involved the whole nation rather than one tribe or family. Their task was to carry out the design God had given Moses for Israel’s sanctuary.

Exo 35:10 Let every skilled craftsman among you come and make…
Exo 31:1-6 Then the LORD said to Moses,…
Exo 35:30 Then Moses said to the Israelites, “See, the LORD has…

whom the LORD had gifted—

Their ability was not treated as mere natural talent. God had equipped them with the knowledge, skill, and understanding needed to produce the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priestly garments according to His instructions. The excellence of the work reflected the holiness of the One for whom it was made.

Exo 31:3 And I have filled him with the Spirit of God…
Exo 35:31 And He has filled him with the Spirit of God,…
Exo 28:3 You are to instruct all the skilled craftsmen,…

everyone whose heart stirred him to come and do the work.

The craftsmen came willingly to serve. Their labor joined the freewill offerings already brought by the people, making the Tabernacle a national work of obedience and worship. God used both the resources and the abilities of His people to establish the place where He would dwell among them.

Exo 35:21 And everyone whose heart stirred him came…
Exo 35:26 And all the skilled women whose hearts were stirred…
Hag 1:14 So the LORD stirred the spirit of Zerubbabel…

They received from Moses all the contributions

Bezalel, Oholiab, and the other skilled workers received the materials Moses had collected for the Tabernacle. Moses oversaw the distribution so that the gifts of the people were used according to God’s instructions.

Exo 35:21 And everyone whose heart stirred him came…
Exo 35:24 And all who could present an offering of silver or bronze…
1Ch 29:6-9 Then the leaders of the families, the officers of the tribes…

that the Israelites had brought

The nation willingly supplied what was needed from the wealth they had brought out of Egypt. Their giving showed participation in the covenant community and in the work God had commanded.

Exo 35:22 So all who had willing hearts, both men and women…
Exo 35:29 So all the men and women of the Israelites…
Ezr 2:68-69 When they arrived at the house of the LORD in Jerusalem,…

to carry out the service of constructing the sanctuary.

Building the Tabernacle was sacred service because it provided the appointed place where the Lord would dwell among His people and where Israel would worship according to His law.

Exo 25:8-9 And they are to make a sanctuary for Me,…
Exo 35:10 Let every skilled craftsman among you come and make…
Exo 31:1-6 Then the LORD said to Moses,…

Meanwhile, the people continued to bring freewill offerings

The people kept bringing voluntary gifts beyond the required contributions. Their generosity reflected a united desire to see the sanctuary completed.

Ezr 3:5 After that, they presented the regular burnt offerings…
Num 15:3 and you present a food offering to the LORD from the herd…
Deu 12:6 To that place you are to bring your burnt offerings…

morning after morning,

Day after day, Israelites came with offerings, demonstrating sustained commitment to the work until the craftsmen had more than enough.

Exo 16:21 Every morning each one gathered as much as was needed,…
Exo 29:38-39 This is what you are to offer regularly on the altar…
Num 28:3-4 And tell them that this is the food offering…

so that all the skilled craftsmen

Israel’s artisans had been appointed and equipped to carry out the detailed work required for the Tabernacle, under the leadership of Bezalel and Oholiab.

1Ch 28:21 The divisions of the priests and Levites are ready…
Exo 35:10 Let every skilled craftsman among you come and make…

who were doing all the work

Their labor included every part of the sanctuary’s construction, from its structure and furnishings to its priestly garments. The work followed the pattern God had given through Moses.

Exo 31:1-6 Then the LORD said to Moses,…
1Ki 7:13-14 Now King Solomon sent to bring Huram from Tyre.…

on the sanctuary

The Tabernacle was God’s appointed dwelling place among Israel during their wilderness journey, where sacrifice, worship, and priestly service were centered.

Exo 25:8 And they are to make a sanctuary for Me,…
Heb 8:2 and who ministers in the sanctuary and true tabernacle…

left their work

The craftsmen stopped their tasks to report that the offerings brought by the people had exceeded the materials needed for the work.

Mat 4:20 And at once they left their nets and followed Him.
Mrk 1:18 And at once they left their nets and followed Him.
Luk 5:11 And when they had brought their boats ashore, they left…

and said to Moses,

The report was brought to Moses, whom God had appointed to lead Israel and oversee the Tabernacle’s construction according to the revealed pattern.

Num 32:25 The Gadites and Reubenites said to Moses,…
Num 20:3 The people quarreled with Moses and said,…
Exo 16:22 On the sixth day, they gathered twice as much food…

“The people are bringing more than enough

Israel’s freewill offerings exceeded the materials needed. Their generosity reflected gratitude for God’s deliverance and a shared commitment to establish the place where He would dwell among them.

1Ch 29:16 O LORD our God, from Your hand comes all this abundance…
2Ch 31:10 and Azariah, the chief priest of the household…
2Co 8:3 For I testify that they gave according to their ability…

for doing the work

The construction of the Tabernacle required skilled craftsmen, valuable materials, and the united participation of the congregation.

Hag 1:14 So the LORD stirred the spirit of Zerubbabel…
Hag 1:8 Go up into the hills, bring down lumber,…
Ezr 3:8 In the second month of the second year…

the LORD has commanded us to do.”

The work proceeded under God’s command, not human design. The Tabernacle would visibly testify to the holy presence of the LORD in Israel’s camp and anticipate Christ dwelling among His people.

Deu 12:32 See that you do everything I command you;…
Deu 5:32 So be careful to do as the LORD your God has commanded you;…
Jos 1:7 Above all, be strong and very courageous.…

After Moses had given an order,

Moses acted on the report that the craftsmen had received more materials than were needed for the work of the Tabernacle. As Israel’s appointed leader, he directed the people according to God’s instructions for the sanctuary.

Exo 35:1-5 Then Moses assembled the whole congregation of Israel…
Deu 1:18 And at that time I commanded you all the things…

they sent a proclamation throughout the camp:

The announcement reached the entire Israelite encampment, where each tribe and family was gathered during their wilderness journey. The construction of the Tabernacle involved the whole nation, but its work was governed by God’s prescribed design and needs.

Exo 32:5 When Aaron saw this, he built an altar before the calf…
Lev 25:10 So you are to consecrate the fiftieth year…
2Ch 30:5 So they established a decree to circulate a proclamation…

“No man or woman should make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary.”

The people had given so freely that further contributions were unnecessary. Their offerings supplied the gold, silver, fabrics, skins, wood, and other materials required for the sacred tent and its furnishings.

Exo 25:2 “Tell the Israelites to bring Me an offering”…
Exo 35:29 So all the men and women of the Israelites…
1Ch 29:9 And the people rejoiced at the willing response…

So the people were restrained from bringing more,

Israel obeyed the command, and the craftsmen were able to complete the work without waste or shortage. The abundance of gifts showed the people’s willing response after their earlier disobedience with the golden calf.

2Ch 31:10 and Azariah, the chief priest of the household…
1Ch 29:14-17 But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able……

since what they already had

The Israelites had already gathered a large supply of gold, silver, bronze, textiles, skins, wood, oil, spices, and precious stones for the Tabernacle. Many of these possessions had come from Egypt when the Egyptians gave them valuables and clothing at the time of the Exodus.

1Ch 29:16 O LORD our God, from Your hand comes all this abundance…
1Ch 29:14 But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able……
1Ch 29:3 Moreover, because of my delight in the house of my God…

was more than enough

The freewill offerings exceeded the amount required for every part of the project. The people responded generously to the call for materials, so no additional collection was needed.

2Ch 31:10 and Azariah, the chief priest of the household…
2Co 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you,…
Jhn 6:13 So they collected them and filled twelve baskets.…

to perform all the work.

The supplies were sufficient for the skilled craftsmen to complete the Tabernacle, its furnishings, priestly garments, and all related articles. The finished sanctuary would serve as the portable dwelling place where God met with Israel during their wilderness journey.

Exo 35:10 Let every skilled craftsman among you come and make…
Exo 35:30-35 Then Moses said to the Israelites, “See, the LORD has…
Exo 31:6 Moreover, I have selected Oholiab son of Ahisamach…

The Ten Curtains for the Tabernacle

All the skilled craftsmen among the workmen made the ten curtains for the tabernacle.

The curtains were produced by the artisans appointed for the work, following the pattern God had given for Israel’s sanctuary. Together, the ten panels formed the inner covering of the tabernacle, surrounding the place where God would dwell among His people.

Exo 31:1-6 Then the LORD said to Moses,…
Exo 35:30-35 Then Moses said to the Israelites, “See, the LORD has…
1Ch 22:15-16 You also have many workers: stonecutters, masons…

They were made of finely spun linen,

The linen provided a pure, durable fabric suitable for the holy dwelling. Its careful preparation reflected the excellence required for the service of God.

Exo 26:1 You are to construct the tabernacle itself…
Exo 39:2-3 Bezalel made the ephod of finely spun linen…
Exo 28:39 You are to weave the tunic with fine linen,…

as well as blue, purple, and scarlet yarn,

These costly colors gave the curtains a royal and sacred character. Their use distinguished the tabernacle from an ordinary tent and testified to the majesty of the God worshiped there.

Exo 25:4 blue, purple, and scarlet yarn; fine linen and goat hair;
Exo 35:6 blue, purple, and scarlet yarn; fine linen and goat hair;
Exo 35:23 Everyone who had blue, purple, or scarlet yarn…

with cherubim skillfully worked into them.

The cherubim represented the heavenly attendants of God’s presence. Woven into the curtains surrounding the sanctuary, they reminded Israel that access to the holy God was guarded and approached only according to His provision.

2Ch 3:14 He made the veil of blue, purple, and crimson yarn…
Exo 26:31 Make a veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn,…
Heb 9:3-5 Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy…

Each curtain was twenty-eight cubits long

Each linen curtain measured about forty-two feet in length, providing sufficient material to cover the framework of the Tabernacle and hang down its sides.

Exo 26:2 Each curtain shall be twenty-eight cubits long…
Exo 25:9 You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings…
Heb 8:5 The place where they serve is a copy and shadow…

and four cubits wide;

At about six feet wide, the panels could be joined in an orderly arrangement to form the inner covering.

Exo 26:13 And the tent curtains will be a cubit longer…
Exo 26:12 As for the overlap that remains of the tent curtains,…
Exo 27:9 You are also to make a courtyard for the tabernacle.…

all the curtains were the same size.

Their identical measurements followed the pattern God gave Moses and produced a unified covering for the sanctuary, where the Lord dwelt among Israel.

Exo 26:8 Each of the eleven curtains is to be the same size…
Exo 26:3 Five of the curtains are to be joined together, and…
Exo 26:5 Make fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops…

And he joined five of the curtains together,

He joined five of the finely woven curtains together, forming one large panel for the inner covering of the Tabernacle. Made according to the pattern given to Moses, the curtains displayed cherubim and marked the sanctuary as the place of God’s dwelling among His people.

Exo 26:3 Five of the curtains are to be joined together, and…
Exo 26:6 Make fifty gold clasps, and join the curtains together…
Exo 26:5 Make fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops…

and the other five he joined as well.

The second panel matched the first, providing an ordered and complete covering over the Tabernacle. The two sets would later be joined by loops and gold clasps, making the curtains one covering while preserving the structure required for Israel’s portable sanctuary.

Exo 26:9 Join five of the curtains into one set and the other six…
Exo 26:11 Make fifty bronze clasps and put them through the loops…
Exo 26:13 And the tent curtains will be a cubit longer…

He made loops of blue material

Blue threads were woven into the tabernacle fabrics as part of the materials God prescribed. The costly dye and careful workmanship reflected the holiness of the sanctuary, where the Lord dwelt among Israel.

Exo 26:4 Make loops of blue material on the edge of the end curtain…
Exo 25:4 blue, purple, and scarlet yarn; fine linen and goat hair;
Exo 28:5 They shall use gold, along with blue, purple, and…

on the edge of the end curtain in the first set,

The ten linen curtains were arranged in two groups of five. Loops placed along the outer edge of the first group prepared it to be joined securely to the second.

Exo 26:3 Five of the curtains are to be joined together, and…
Exo 26:6 Make fifty gold clasps, and join the curtains together…
Exo 26:1 You are to construct the tabernacle itself…

and also on the end curtain in the second set.

Matching loops on the second group ensured that the curtains could be fastened together evenly with gold clasps. Every detail followed the pattern given by God, forming one unified covering over the tabernacle.

Exo 26:5 Make fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops…
Exo 26:10 Make fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain…
Exo 26:11 Make fifty bronze clasps and put them through the loops…

He made fifty loops on one curtain

The loops were sewn along the outer edge of the first set of linen curtains, preparing the two large panels to be joined into a single covering for the Tabernacle.

Exo 26:4 Make loops of blue material on the edge of the end curtain…
Exo 26:5 Make fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops…

and fifty loops on the end curtain of the second set,

An equal number was placed on the corresponding edge of the second set. The matching construction allowed the curtains to meet precisely across the width of the sanctuary.

Exo 26:10 Make fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain…
Exo 26:11 Make fifty bronze clasps and put them through the loops…

so that the loops lined up opposite one another.

The aligned loops received the gold clasps that joined the two sections together. Every part was made according to the pattern God had given, forming one unified covering over the place where He dwelt among Israel.

Exo 26:6 Make fifty gold clasps, and join the curtains together…
Exo 26:9 Join five of the curtains into one set and the other six…

He also made fifty gold clasps

Gold was used throughout the tabernacle for objects and fittings associated with the holy place, marking the sanctuary as a dwelling prepared for the presence of the holy God. The fifty clasps provided both strength and permanence for the covering.

Exo 26:6 Make fifty gold clasps, and join the curtains together…
Exo 26:11 Make fifty bronze clasps and put them through the loops…
Exo 35:11 the tabernacle with its tent and covering,…

to join the curtains together,

The clasps connected the two large sets of woven curtains into a single covering. Though made in sections for transport and assembly, the tabernacle was designed according to one unified plan given by God.

Exo 26:9 Join five of the curtains into one set and the other six…
Exo 26:3 Five of the curtains are to be joined together, and…
Exo 26:5 Make fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops…

so that the tabernacle was a unit.

Once joined, the curtains formed one dwelling place for the Lord in the midst of Israel’s camp. Its unified structure reflected the order and completeness of God’s instructions and anticipated His purpose to dwell among His people.

Eph 4:16 From Him the whole body, fitted and held together…
Col 2:19 He has lost connection to the head, from whom the body…
Eph 4:4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called…

The Eleven Curtains of Goat Hair

He then made curtains of goat hair

Goat-hair cloth was a durable, weather-resistant material commonly used for tents in the ancient world. It provided a protective covering suited to Israel’s wilderness setting. Its use also recalls the need for covering before a holy God, anticipating the atonement He would provide.

Exo 26:7 You are to make curtains of goat hair for the tent…
Exo 35:26 And all the skilled women whose hearts were stirred…
Heb 9:2 A tabernacle was prepared. In its first room were…

for the tent over the tabernacle—

This outer layer protected the linen coverings beneath and marked the tabernacle as God’s sacred dwelling among Israel. The successive coverings underscored both God’s presence with His people and the separation required by His holiness.

Exo 40:19 Then he spread the tent over the tabernacle…
Num 4:25 They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle…
Num 3:25 The duties of the Gershonites at the Tent of Meeting were…

eleven curtains in all.

The eleven panels supplied sufficient material to cover the tabernacle completely, with an added section extending over the rear. The number eleven, one more than ten, may suggest God’s abundant provision, protection, and grace beyond what is expected. The design combined practical protection with the precise pattern God had given Moses.

Exo 26:8 Each of the eleven curtains is to be the same size…
Exo 26:9 Join five of the curtains into one set and the other six…
Exo 26:10 Make fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain…

Each of the eleven curtains

Each of the eleven curtains, signifying completeness and divine order, formed part of the goat-hair covering placed over the linen curtains of the Tabernacle. Together, they provided a complete outer layer for the sacred structure.

Exo 26:7 You are to make curtains of goat hair for the tent…
Exo 26:9 Join five of the curtains into one set and the other six…

was the same size—

The matching measurements allowed the curtains to be joined evenly and laid in proper order, showing the careful obedience of Bezalel and the workers to the pattern God gave Moses.

Exo 26:2 Each curtain shall be twenty-eight cubits long…
Exo 26:3 Five of the curtains are to be joined together, and…

thirty cubits long

Each curtain extended about forty-five feet, long enough to cover the Tabernacle from roof to ground.

Exo 26:8 Each of the eleven curtains is to be the same size…
Exo 26:12 As for the overlap that remains of the tent curtains,…

and four cubits wide.

At about six feet wide, each panel could be joined to the others to form a durable covering that protected the sanctuary.

Ezk 41:5 Next he measured the wall of the temple to be six cubits…
1Ki 7:27 In addition, he made ten movable stands of bronze,…

He joined five of the curtains into one set

The eleven goat-hair curtains were arranged according to the pattern God gave for the Tabernacle. Five were joined to form one large panel, preserving the measured order required for the covering of the sacred tent.

Exo 26:3 Five of the curtains are to be joined together, and…
Exo 26:4 Make loops of blue material on the edge of the end curtain…
Exo 26:6 Make fifty gold clasps, and join the curtains together…

and the other six into another.

The remaining six formed a second panel, which was joined to the first by loops and clasps. This arrangement allowed the larger section to extend over the entrance, providing complete coverage for the Tabernacle and demonstrating Israel’s careful obedience to God’s instructions.

Exo 26:9 Join five of the curtains into one set and the other six…
Exo 26:10 Make fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain…
Exo 26:12 As for the overlap that remains of the tent curtains,…

He made fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain in the first set,

The loops were placed on the edge of the fifth curtain in the first group of linen panels. Their careful arrangement prepared the two five-curtain sections to be joined into one covering for the Tabernacle.

Exo 39:19 They made two more gold rings and attached them to…
Exo 26:4-5 Make loops of blue material on the edge of the end curtain…

and fifty loops along the edge of the corresponding curtain in the second set.

Matching loops on the second group ensured symmetry and precise alignment when the panels were joined with the gold clasps, forming a unified covering. The workmanship followed the pattern given through Moses, providing an ordered covering for the holy dwelling place.

Exo 39:20 They made two additional gold rings and attached them…
Exo 26:9-11 Join five of the curtains into one set and the other six…

He also made fifty bronze clasps

The bronze clasps matched the fifty loops placed along the edges of the goat-hair curtains that formed the tent covering over the tabernacle. Their durable construction secured the covering for Israel’s travels through the wilderness.

Exo 39:33 Then they brought the tabernacle to Moses: the tent…
Exo 35:11 the tabernacle with its tent and covering,…

to join the tent together

The clasps fastened the two large sections of curtains into one covering, protecting the sacred structure beneath and allowing it to be assembled and taken down as the Lord commanded.

Exo 26:11 Make fifty bronze clasps and put them through the loops…
Exo 26:3 Five of the curtains are to be joined together, and…

as a unit.

Though made from separate curtains, the tent functioned as one complete dwelling place for the worship of God among His people.

Exo 26:6 Make fifty gold clasps, and join the curtains together…
Eph 2:21 In Him the whole building is fitted together…
1Pe 2:5 you also, like living stones, are being built…

Additionally, he made for the tent a covering of ram skins dyed red,

This covering formed a protective layer over the curtains of goats’ hair. Rams were used in important sacrifices, and their red-dyed skins fittingly reflected the tabernacle’s connection to atonement and consecration. Every part of the structure was prepared according to God’s instructions, marking it as the appointed place of His presence among Israel.

Exo 39:34 the covering of ram skins dyed red, the covering…
Exo 25:5 ram skins dyed red and fine leather; acacia wood;
Exo 35:23 Everyone who had blue, purple, or scarlet yarn…

and over that a covering of fine leather.

The outer covering protected the tabernacle from sun, wind, and rain during Israel’s wilderness journey. Its durable material preserved the sacred structure beneath, joining practical protection with the holiness of the sanctuary.

Exo 26:14 Also make a covering for the tent out of ram skins dyed red,…
Num 4:6 They are to place over this a covering of fine leather,…
Num 4:11 Over the gold altar they are to spread a blue cloth…

The Frames and Bases

Next, he constructed

Bezalel continued the work of assembling the tabernacle according to the pattern God had given Moses.

Exo 35:30-35 Then Moses said to the Israelites, “See, the LORD has…
Exo 31:1-6 Then the LORD said to Moses,…

upright frames

These formed the supporting walls of the sanctuary and gave the structure its ordered shape.

Exo 26:15 You are to construct upright frames of acacia wood…
Exo 26:18 Construct twenty frames for the south side of the tabernacle…

of acacia wood

The durable wood suited the wilderness setting and was used throughout the tabernacle’s sacred furnishings.

Exo 37:1 Bezalel went on to construct the ark of acacia wood,…
Exo 38:1 Bezalel constructed the altar of burnt offering…

for the tabernacle.

As Israel journeyed through the desert, this portable sanctuary stood as the appointed place of God’s presence among His covenant people.

Exo 40:17-19 So the tabernacle was set up on the first day…
Exo 26:1 You are to construct the tabernacle itself…

Each frame was ten cubits long

Each upright frame measured about fifteen feet in height, giving the Tabernacle its ordered and substantial structure. The precise dimensions followed the pattern God gave to Moses, ensuring that the sanctuary was built according to His command.

Exo 26:16 Each frame is to be ten cubits long and a cubit and a half…
Exo 26:15 You are to construct upright frames of acacia wood…

and a cubit and a half wide.

At about twenty-seven inches wide, each acacia-wood frame formed part of the strong walls surrounding the holy place. Joined together and overlaid with gold, these frames supported the coverings and marked off the dwelling place where God met with Israel.

Exo 25:10 And they are to construct an ark of acacia wood,…
Exo 37:1 Bezalel went on to construct the ark of acacia wood,…

Two tenons were connected to each other for each frame.

Each frame was fitted with matching projections at its base so it could stand securely in the silver sockets and remain joined to the surrounding structure. The careful workmanship gave the tabernacle strength and stability as Israel carried it through the wilderness. Every detail served the purpose of providing a fitting dwelling place for the holy presence of God among His people.

Exo 26:17 Two tenons must be connected to each other…
Exo 26:15 You are to construct upright frames of acacia wood…
Exo 26:18 Construct twenty frames for the south side of the tabernacle…

He made all the frames of the tabernacle in this way.

Bezalel followed the pattern God had given, making every frame according to the same design. The uniform construction preserved the order and integrity of the sanctuary and allowed the individual parts to form one complete dwelling. The work also required the coordinated service of many Israelites, each contributing to the building of the place where God would meet with the nation.

Exo 26:30 So you are to set up the tabernacle according to the pattern…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…
Exo 39:32 So all the work for the tabernacle was completed.…

He constructed twenty frames

Acacia-wood frames provided the main support for the tabernacle’s southern wall. Their durable construction and fitted bases made the sanctuary strong while allowing it to be dismantled and carried during Israel’s journeys.

Exo 26:18 Construct twenty frames for the south side of the tabernacle…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…
Exo 26:15 You are to construct upright frames of acacia wood…

for the south side

Twenty frames, each measuring one and a half cubits wide, formed a wall thirty cubits long, about forty-five feet. The southern side ran parallel to the northern wall, enclosing the sacred interior according to the pattern given to Moses.

Exo 26:35 And place the table outside the veil on the north side…
Exo 27:9 You are also to make a courtyard for the tabernacle.…
Exo 38:9 Then he constructed the courtyard. The south side…

of the tabernacle,

The tabernacle was God’s appointed dwelling among Israel and the center of sacrifice, worship, and priestly ministry. Its portable design suited the wilderness period while preserving the holiness required for the Lord’s presence among His people.

Exo 26:30 So you are to set up the tabernacle according to the pattern…
Exo 40:2 On the first day of the first month, set up the tabernacle…
Exo 25:9 You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings…

with forty silver bases

The silver bases, made from Israel’s atonement money, formed the foundation for the tabernacle’s frames and recalled the Lord’s redemption of His people from Egypt.

Exo 26:21 and forty silver bases—two bases under each frame.
Exo 38:27 The hundred talents of silver were used to cast the bases…

to put under the twenty frames—

These frames made up the south side of the tabernacle, giving strength and shape to the dwelling place God commanded Israel to build.

Exo 26:20 For the second side of the tabernacle, the north side…
Exo 39:33 Then they brought the tabernacle to Moses: the tent…

two bases for each frame,

Each frame rested securely on two bases, providing an even and stable support for the structure.

Exo 26:25 So there are to be eight frames and sixteen silver bases…
Num 4:31 This is the duty for all their service at the Tent…

one under each tenon.

The tenons fitted into the bases, joining the frames firmly in place according to the pattern God gave Moses.

Exo 26:19 with forty silver bases under the twenty frames—…
Exo 26:17 Two tenons must be connected to each other…

For the second side of the tabernacle,

The second side of the tabernacle was its north side, where twenty frames were constructed. The structure was built according to God’s detailed instructions as a portable sanctuary for Israel’s worship during the wilderness journey.

Exo 26:20 For the second side of the tabernacle, the north side…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…
Exo 40:17 So the tabernacle was set up on the first day…

the north side,

The north side, paired with the south side, gave the tabernacle its ordered rectangular form, while the entrance remained on the east.

Exo 26:35 And place the table outside the veil on the north side…
Exo 40:22 Moses placed the table in the Tent of Meeting…
Lev 1:11 He shall slaughter it on the north side of the altar…

he made twenty frames

He made twenty acacia wood frames overlaid with gold, providing a strong, unified framework for the dwelling place of God among His people.

Exo 26:18 Construct twenty frames for the south side of the tabernacle…
Exo 26:21 and forty silver bases—two bases under each frame.
Exo 26:19 with forty silver bases under the twenty frames—…

and forty silver bases—

The silver bases anchored the twenty frames forming the south side of the Tabernacle. Their costly material reflected the care and value assigned to the Lord’s dwelling among Israel.

Exo 26:21 and forty silver bases—two bases under each frame.
Exo 26:19 with forty silver bases under the twenty frames—…
Exo 38:27 The hundred talents of silver were used to cast the bases…

two bases under each frame.

Each frame rested securely in two bases, giving the structure stability while allowing it to be dismantled and carried during Israel’s wilderness journey. The arrangement showed that the Tabernacle was built according to God’s detailed instructions.

Exo 26:25 So there are to be eight frames and sixteen silver bases…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…

He made six frames

These frames formed part of the tabernacle’s supporting structure, giving strength and shape to the dwelling place God commanded Israel to build.

Exo 26:22 Make six frames for the rear of the tabernacle,…
Exo 26:15 You are to construct upright frames of acacia wood…

for the rear of the tabernacle,

They were placed along the back wall, enclosing and protecting the Most Holy Place.

Num 3:23 The Gershonite clans were to camp on the west,…
Exo 26:23 and two frames for the two back corners of the tabernacle,

the west side,

The tabernacle faced east, so its western end stood opposite the entrance. The careful construction of this wall completed the portable sanctuary that accompanied Israel through the wilderness.

Exo 26:27 five for those on the other side,…
Exo 27:12 The curtains on the west side of the courtyard shall be…
Num 2:18 On the west side, the divisions of Ephraim are to camp…

and two frames

These additional frames completed the rear portion of the structure, following the pattern God had given Moses.

Exo 26:15 You are to construct upright frames of acacia wood…
Num 3:36 The duties assigned to the sons of Merari…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…

for the two back corners

The corner frames strengthened the points where the side walls met the rear wall, giving the tabernacle a firm and orderly shape for Israel’s journeys.

Exo 26:23 and two frames for the two back corners of the tabernacle,
Exo 26:24 coupled together from bottom to top…
Exo 26:22 Make six frames for the rear of the tabernacle,…

of the tabernacle,

The tabernacle was the holy dwelling place of God among Israel, where the priests served and sacrifices were offered according to His command.

Exo 25:9 You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings…
Exo 25:40 See to it that you make everything according to the pattern…
Exo 40:17 So the tabernacle was set up on the first day…

coupled together from bottom to top

The two rear corner frames were joined along their full height, strengthening the west end of the Tabernacle.

Exo 26:23-24 and two frames for the two back corners of the tabernacle,…
Exo 39:4 They made shoulder pieces for the ephod, which were attached…

and fitted into a single ring.

Their upper ends were secured in a ring, forming a firm and orderly connection.

Exo 28:27-28 Make two additional gold rings and attach them…
Exo 39:20-21 They made two additional gold rings and attached them…

He made both corners in this way.

Both western corners were constructed alike, completing the framework according to the pattern God had given Moses.

Psa 118:22-23 The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.…
Isa 28:16 So this is what the Lord GOD says: “See, I lay a stone…

So there were eight frames

Six frames formed the rear, or west side, of the Tabernacle, with two additional frames placed at the corners to strengthen the structure. Together they completed the western end of the sacred dwelling.

Exo 26:22-24 Make six frames for the rear of the tabernacle,…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…

and sixteen silver bases—

Each frame stood in two silver bases, providing a secure foundation. The silver used for the Tabernacle’s bases came from the atonement money collected from the Israelites, linking the structure that housed God’s presence with the ransom paid by the people.

Exo 26:25 So there are to be eight frames and sixteen silver bases…
Exo 38:27 The hundred talents of silver were used to cast the bases…

two under each frame.

The paired bases held the frames firmly in place and supported the walls of the Tabernacle as it stood in the wilderness.

Exo 26:19 with forty silver bases under the twenty frames—…
Num 4:31-32 This is the duty for all their service at the Tent…

He also made five crossbars of acacia wood

Acacia wood was durable and well suited for the wilderness environment, providing lasting strength for the tabernacle’s framework. The five crossbars, representing grace, secured the structure and helped it remain stable during Israel’s journeys.

Exo 26:26 You are also to make five crossbars of acacia wood…
Exo 26:27 five for those on the other side,…
Exo 26:28 The central crossbar in the middle of the frames shall…

for the frames on one side of the tabernacle,

The tabernacle was designed to be assembled, dismantled, and transported as Israel traveled through the wilderness. Its carefully ordered construction reflected God’s instructions and provided a suitable dwelling place for His presence among His covenant people.

Exo 26:18 Construct twenty frames for the south side of the tabernacle…
Exo 26:15 You are to construct upright frames of acacia wood…
Exo 26:20 For the second side of the tabernacle, the north side…

five for those on the other side,

Five acacia-wood bars secured the boards along the second long side of the tabernacle, strengthening the framework beneath its coverings.

Exo 26:27 five for those on the other side,…
Num 4:31-32 This is the duty for all their service at the Tent…

and five for those on the rear side of the tabernacle,

Another set of five bars held the boards across the back wall, opposite the entrance. The work followed the pattern God had given Moses for the sanctuary.

Num 3:23 The Gershonite clans were to camp on the west,…
Num 2:18-24 On the west side, the divisions of Ephraim are to camp…

to the west.

The western end completed the structure’s outer framework and enclosed the Most Holy Place within the tabernacle.

Num 34:6 Your western border will be the coastline of the Great Sea;…
Jos 1:4 Your territory shall extend from the wilderness and Lebanon…

He made the central crossbar

The central crossbar strengthened the Tabernacle’s frame by binding its upright boards into a unified structure. Its construction followed the pattern God had given, showing that the sanctuary was built according to His ordered design.

Exo 26:28 The central crossbar in the middle of the frames shall…
Num 3:36 The duties assigned to the sons of Merari…

to run through the center of the frames,

Passing through the middle of the frames, the bar provided internal stability across the length of the structure. The arrangement ensured that the walls remained aligned and secure as the Tabernacle was assembled and moved during Israel’s wilderness journey.

Num 4:31 This is the duty for all their service at the Tent…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…

from one end to the other.

Extending the full length of the Tabernacle, it joined the entire side into one stable wall. The completed structure testified to the care and precision required for the place where God would dwell among His people.

Zec 2:1-2 Then I lifted up my eyes and saw a man with a measuring line…
Isa 40:22 He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth;…

And he overlaid the frames with gold

Gold covered the wooden frames of the Tabernacle, marking the structure as set apart for the dwelling place of the holy God. The costly material reflected the glory and purity associated with His presence among Israel.

Exo 26:29 Overlay the frames with gold and make gold rings…
1Ki 6:20 The inner sanctuary was twenty cubits long…
2Ch 3:4 The portico at the front, extending across the width…

and made gold rings to hold the crossbars.

The rings secured the crossbars that joined the frames into a stable structure. Even these functional details were made according to God’s instructions and with materials fitting for His sanctuary.

Exo 25:12-15 Cast four gold rings for it and fasten them…
Exo 25:26-28 Make four gold rings for the table and fasten them…
Exo 30:4 And make two gold rings below the molding on opposite sides…

He also overlaid the crossbars with gold.

The crossbars were likewise covered with gold, completing the unified appearance of the Tabernacle walls. Every visible part of the structure testified to the holiness, order, and permanence of God’s dwelling among His people.

Exo 25:13 And make poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold.
Exo 37:4-5 Then he made poles of acacia wood and overlaid…
1Ki 6:21 So Solomon overlaid the inside of the temple with pure gold…

The Veil

Next, he made the veil

The veil separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, where God’s presence was uniquely displayed above the ark. It marked the restricted access to God under the old covenant.

2Ch 3:14 He made the veil of blue, purple, and crimson yarn…
Heb 9:3 Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy…
Heb 10:20 by the new and living way opened for us…

of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn,

These costly colors—blue signifying heaven or divinity, purple royalty and wealth, and scarlet sacrifice and atonement—reflected the glory, authority, and holiness of the God who dwelt among Israel.

Exo 35:25 Every skilled woman spun with her hands…
Exo 25:4 blue, purple, and scarlet yarn; fine linen and goat hair;
Exo 28:5 They shall use gold, along with blue, purple, and…

and finely spun linen,

The fine linen emphasized purity and the careful excellence required for the furnishings of the Tabernacle.

Exo 39:1 From the blue, purple, and scarlet yarn they made…
Exo 39:27 For Aaron and his sons they made tunics of fine linen…
Rev 19:8 She was given clothing of fine linen, bright and pure.”…

with cherubim skillfully worked into it.

The cherubim portrayed heavenly guardians around God’s holy presence, reminding Israel that sinful humanity could not enter freely. The veil anticipated the access to God made possible through Christ’s sacrifice.

Exo 26:1 You are to construct the tabernacle itself…
Exo 26:31 Make a veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn,…
Heb 9:5 Above the ark were the cherubim of glory,…

He also made four posts of acacia wood for it

These posts supported the inner veil before the Most Holy Place. Acacia wood, plentiful in the Sinai region and valued for its strength, provided durable support for the sacred structure.

Exo 26:32 Hang it with gold hooks on four posts of acacia wood,…
Exo 26:37 Make five posts of acacia wood for the curtain,…
Exo 27:10 with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases,…

and overlaid them with gold,

The gold covering reflected the holiness and glory associated with God’s dwelling among His people.

Exo 26:29 Overlay the frames with gold and make gold rings…
Exo 30:3 Overlay with pure gold the top and all the sides and horns…
1Ki 6:20 The inner sanctuary was twenty cubits long…

along with gold hooks;

The hooks held the veil in place, marking the boundary between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place, where the ark of the covenant was kept.

Exo 26:6 Make fifty gold clasps, and join the curtains together…
Exo 38:28 With the 1,775 shekels of silver he made the hooks…
Exo 27:17 All the posts around the courtyard shall have silver bands,…

and he cast four silver bases for the posts.

The silver bases gave the posts a secure foundation and reflected the use of silver in Israel’s atonement offerings, underscoring that access to God required redemption.

Exo 38:27 The hundred talents of silver were used to cast the bases…
Exo 26:19 with forty silver bases under the twenty frames—…
Exo 26:21 and forty silver bases—two bases under each frame.

The Curtain for the Entrance

For the entrance to the tent,

Moses’ craftsmen prepared the doorway of the Tabernacle, the sanctuary where the Lord met with Israel during the wilderness journey.

Exo 26:36 For the entrance to the tent, you are to make…
Exo 35:15 the altar of incense with its poles; the anointing oil…
Num 4:25 They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle…

he made a curtain

The curtain marked the boundary between the camp and the holy place, allowing access only according to God’s appointed order.

Exo 26:31 Make a veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn,…
Exo 27:16 The gate of the courtyard shall be twenty cubits long,…
Num 3:25 The duties of the Gershonites at the Tent of Meeting were…

embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn,

Its rich colors reflected the glory, kingship, and sacrificial provision associated with worship before the Lord.

Exo 35:35 He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work…
Exo 39:2-3 Bezalel made the ephod of finely spun linen…
Exo 28:5-6 They shall use gold, along with blue, purple, and…

and finely spun linen,

The costly linen emphasized the purity and holiness required in the place set apart for God’s presence.

Exo 35:25 Every skilled woman spun with her hands…
Exo 39:27-29 For Aaron and his sons they made tunics of fine linen…
Exo 28:39 You are to weave the tunic with fine linen,…

together with five posts and their hooks.

The five posts supported the screen at the entrance to the Holy Place, marking the boundary between the outer court and the sacred chamber where the priests served. Their hooks held the curtain in place, providing a defined entrance according to the pattern God had given Moses.

Exo 26:37 Make five posts of acacia wood for the curtain,…
Exo 27:17 All the posts around the courtyard shall have silver bands,…
Exo 27:10 with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases,…

He overlaid the tops of the posts and their bands with gold,

The gold covering set these posts apart for their service at the entrance to God’s dwelling place. Gold throughout the Tabernacle testified to the holiness and majesty of the Lord who met with His people there.

2Ch 3:7 He overlaid its beams, thresholds, walls, and doors…
1Ki 6:21 So Solomon overlaid the inside of the temple with pure gold…
Exo 25:11 Overlay it with pure gold both inside and out…

and their five bases were bronze.

The bronze bases provided strength and stability for the posts. Bronze was also used in the court furnishings associated with sacrifice, reminding Israel that access to God required atonement for sin.

1Ki 7:27 In addition, he made ten movable stands of bronze,…
2Ki 25:13 Moreover, the Chaldeans broke up the bronze pillars…
Jer 52:17 Moreover, the Chaldeans broke up the bronze pillars…

This is a draft of the Berean Study Bible. Please send all comments and recommendations to bereanstudybible@aol.com.



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