What role do women play in contributing to God's tabernacle in Exodus 35:26? Setting the Scene Exodus 35 recounts Israel’s generous response to Moses’ call for materials and workmanship to build the LORD’s tabernacle. Both men and women participate, each according to gifting and opportunity, fulfilling the divine blueprint given in Exodus 25–31. Key Verse “And all the skilled women whose hearts were stirred spun the goats’ hair.” (Exodus 35:26) What the Women Actually Did • Spun goat hair thread—an essential fabric for the tabernacle’s weather-resistant tent coverings (Exodus 26:7). • Applied specialized skill (“skilled women”)—not casual labor but practiced craftsmanship. • Contributed voluntarily—“whose hearts were stirred,” echoing the freewill spirit of Exodus 35:5, 29. • Worked in harmony with the broader community effort—coordinating with Bezalel, Oholiab, and every “wise-hearted man” (Exodus 36:1). Why Goat Hair Matters • Durability & protection—goat hair cloth repels rain, safeguarding the holy furnishings (Exodus 26:14). • Symbol of separation—the dark outer layer contrasts with the colorful inner curtains, reminding Israel that God’s holiness is veiled from casual view (Hebrews 9:3-5). • Visibility—unlike gold or jewels hidden inside, these coverings were seen by every Israelite camped around the sanctuary, continually testifying to the women’s labor. Biblical Pattern of Women’s Skilled Work • “Every skilled woman spun with her hands…” (Exodus 35:25). • Proverbs 31:13, 19—virtuous woman’s weaving supports household and community. • Judges 5:24-26—Jael’s household tools become instruments of deliverance. • Luke 8:3—women financially support Jesus’ ministry, showing ongoing precedent for female provision in worship. Theological Takeaways • Equality of devotion—God invites both sexes to meaningful service (Galatians 3:28). • Heart-first service—skill alone is insufficient; willingness “stirred” by the Spirit legitimizes the offering (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Sanctified craftsmanship—ordinary abilities (spinning) become holy when dedicated to God (Colossians 3:23-24). Practical Application Today • Value hidden ministries—the coverings protected sacred space though rarely noticed; unseen church work remains precious to God. • Cultivate skill for God’s glory—improvement in any craft expands capacity to serve. • Offer resources voluntarily—generosity that springs from a stirred heart pleases the LORD more than compelled giving. Summary In Exodus 35:26 women provide indispensable, skillful, voluntary labor that literally shelters the dwelling place of God among His people. Their example affirms that every believer—regardless of role—can transform everyday abilities into enduring service for the kingdom. |
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