What is the meaning of Exodus 38:23? 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. |
    |