What is the meaning of Exodus 35:8? Olive Oil for the Light “olive oil for the light” • The tabernacle’s golden lampstand needed pure, pressed olive oil so its flames would “burn continually” before the Lord (Exodus 27:20–21; Leviticus 24:1–4). • Light in Scripture often pictures God’s presence and guidance. Just as He led Israel with a pillar of fire (Exodus 13:21), the steady glow inside the tent reminded the people that He dwelled among them. • Offering oil required personal sacrifice. Families surrendered the best of their harvest, trusting God would supply their daily needs (Proverbs 3:9–10). • Jesus later declared, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12). The lampstand foreshadowed the true Light who now shines in believers, calling us to “let your light shine before men” (Matthew 5:14–16; Philippians 2:15). Spices for the Anointing Oil “spices for the anointing oil” • God prescribed a unique blend—myrrh, cinnamon, calamus, cassia mixed with olive oil—to consecrate the tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests (Exodus 30:22–30). • Anointing set objects and people apart as holy, declaring them the Lord’s exclusive possession (1 Samuel 10:1; Psalm 133:2). • The fragrance symbolized the sweetness of obedient worship ascending to heaven (2 Corinthians 2:14-15). • In Christ we have “an anointing from the Holy One” (1 John 2:20, 27). The Holy Spirit seals and empowers us for service, just as the sacred oil equipped Aaron’s line for ministry (Acts 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:21-22). And for the Fragrant Incense “and for the fragrant incense” • Incense, blended from aromatic resins and spices, was burned on the golden altar each morning and evening (Exodus 30:34-38; 40:27). • Its ascending smoke pictured the prayers of God’s people rising acceptably before Him (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8; 8:3-4). • The exclusive recipe underscored that approach to God is on His terms alone; any unauthorized formula brought judgment (Leviticus 10:1-2). • Through Jesus, our heavenly High Priest, we now “draw near with confidence” (Hebrews 4:14-16). Our prayers, offered in His name, are a pleasing aroma God delights to receive (John 14:13-14; Ephesians 5:2). summary Exodus 35:8 lists supplies the Israelites freely brought for the tabernacle: oil, spices for anointing, and incense. Each gift points to a bigger reality—unceasing divine light, consecrated service, and welcomed prayer—now fulfilled in Christ and continued through Spirit-led believers who shine, serve, and intercede to the glory of God. |
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