Exodus 35:23

Everyone who had blue, purple, or scarlet yarn, or fine linen, goat hair, ram skins dyed red, or articles of fine leather, brought them.

Study Bible

Everyone who had
This phrase emphasizes the communal and inclusive nature of the offering. In the Hebrew context, the word "everyone" (כָּל־אִישׁ, kol-ish) signifies the collective responsibility and privilege of the Israelites. It underscores the idea that participation in God's work is not limited to a select few but is open to all who are willing and able. This reflects the New Testament principle found in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, where the body of Christ is made up of many members, each contributing to the whole.

Blue, purple, or scarlet yarn
These colors were significant in ancient Israelite culture and worship. The Hebrew words for these colors (תְּכֵלֶת, tekhelet; אַרְגָּמָן, argaman; שָׁנִי, shani) denote materials that were costly and often associated with royalty and divinity. Blue, in particular, was a symbol of the heavens and divine revelation, while purple and scarlet were associated with wealth and power. The use of these colors in the tabernacle's construction symbolized the majesty and holiness of God.

Fine linen
The Hebrew word for fine linen (שֵׁשׁ, shesh) refers to a high-quality fabric that was used in the garments of the priests and the tabernacle. Linen was valued for its purity and durability, symbolizing righteousness and holiness. In Revelation 19:8, fine linen is described as "the righteous acts of the saints," linking the material to spiritual purity and dedication.

Goat hair
Goat hair (עִזִּים, izzim) was a common material in the ancient Near East, used for making tents and other durable items. Its inclusion in the offerings highlights the practical and humble contributions that were just as necessary as the more luxurious items. This reminds us that in God's economy, every gift, whether grand or modest, is valuable and necessary for the work of the kingdom.

Ram skins dyed red
The Hebrew term for ram skins (עֹרֹת אֵילִם מְאָדָּמִים, orot elim me'odamim) indicates a specific preparation process that involved dyeing the skins red. This process not only added beauty but also symbolized sacrifice and atonement, as rams were often used in sacrificial offerings. The red dye could represent the blood of atonement, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.

Fine leather
The term "fine leather" (תְּחָשִׁים, tachashim) is somewhat ambiguous, with various translations suggesting different types of skins or hides. Regardless of the exact material, its inclusion signifies the diversity of resources and skills that were brought together for the tabernacle's construction. This diversity reflects the multifaceted nature of the church, where different gifts and talents are united for God's glory.

Brought them
The act of bringing these materials (וַיָּבִיאוּ, vayavi'u) signifies a willing and generous response to God's call. It reflects the heart of worship, where giving is an act of devotion and gratitude. This voluntary offering is a precursor to the New Testament teaching on cheerful giving, as seen in 2 Corinthians 9:7, where believers are encouraged to give not reluctantly or under compulsion, but with joy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who conveyed God's instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were called to contribute materials for the Tabernacle.

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God would dwell among His people during their journey in the wilderness.

4. Materials
Blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, fine linen, goat hair, ram skins dyed red, and fine leather were all materials required for the construction of the Tabernacle.

5. Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites were journeying and where the Tabernacle was to be constructed.

Teaching Points

Willingness to Give
The Israelites were called to give willingly from what they had. This teaches us the importance of a willing heart in our service and offerings to God.

Diversity of Gifts
The variety of materials shows that God values different contributions. Each person’s unique gifts and resources are important in the body of Christ.

Symbolism of Materials
The colors and materials have symbolic meanings (e.g., blue for divinity, purple for royalty, scarlet for sacrifice) that point to the character and work of Christ.

Community Involvement
The construction of the Tabernacle was a community effort, reminding us of the importance of working together in the church.

Obedience to God’s Instructions
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle highlight the importance of following God’s commands precisely.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the willingness of the Israelites to give their materials teach us about our attitude towards giving to God’s work today?

2. How can the diversity of materials contributed by the Israelites inspire us to appreciate and utilize the different gifts within our church community?

3. In what ways do the symbolic meanings of the materials used for the Tabernacle point us to the person and work of Jesus Christ?

4. How can we ensure that our contributions to God’s work are done with a willing and cheerful heart, as encouraged in 2 Corinthians 9:7?

5. What lessons can we learn from the community involvement in the construction of the Tabernacle that can be applied to our local church projects and missions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25
This chapter provides the initial instructions for the Tabernacle, highlighting the importance of the materials and their symbolic meanings.

2 Corinthians 9:7
This verse emphasizes the importance of giving willingly and cheerfully, which parallels the Israelites' contributions for the Tabernacle.

Hebrews 9:11-12
These verses discuss Christ as the greater and more perfect Tabernacle, connecting the physical Tabernacle to its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.