Exodus 35:28

as well as spices and olive oil for the light, for the anointing oil, and for the fragrant incense.

Study Bible

as well as the spice
The term "spice" in this context refers to aromatic substances used in the preparation of sacred anointing oils and incense. In Hebrew, the word for spice is "besamim," which denotes fragrant materials. Historically, spices were highly valued in ancient cultures for their use in religious rituals, medicine, and trade. The inclusion of spices in the tabernacle's construction underscores the importance of creating a space that is not only visually and structurally beautiful but also pleasing to the senses, symbolizing the holistic nature of worship.

and olive oil
Olive oil, or "shemen" in Hebrew, was a staple in ancient Israelite life, used for cooking, lighting, and religious ceremonies. Its use in the tabernacle for the light and anointing oil signifies purity and consecration. Olive oil's role in the menorah, the lampstand, symbolizes the light of God's presence among His people. The process of producing olive oil, involving the crushing of olives, can also be seen as a metaphor for the trials that produce spiritual maturity and the anointing of the Holy Spirit.

for the light
The light refers to the illumination provided by the menorah in the tabernacle. In a broader theological sense, light is a recurring symbol in Scripture, representing God's presence, guidance, and truth. The menorah's light was to burn continually, signifying the perpetual presence of God with His people. This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus declares Himself the "light of the world" (John 8:12), drawing a direct line from the tabernacle's light to the revelation of God in Christ.

for the anointing oil
Anointing oil was used to consecrate priests, kings, and sacred objects, setting them apart for God's service. The Hebrew word "mishchah" indicates a special blend of spices and oil, as detailed in Exodus 30:22-25. This oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit's empowerment and sanctification. The act of anointing signifies God's choice and blessing, a practice that continues in various forms within Christian traditions today, representing the believer's dedication to God's purposes.

and for the fragrant incense
Incense, or "qetoreth" in Hebrew, was burned on the altar of incense within the tabernacle, producing a pleasing aroma that symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to God. The specific recipe for this incense was given by God, emphasizing the importance of worship that is both sincere and obedient to His instructions. Incense in the biblical narrative often represents intercession and the sweet fellowship between God and His people, reminding believers of the importance of prayer and communion with God.

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.

4. Anointing Oil
A sacred mixture used for consecrating the Tabernacle and its furnishings.

5. Fragrant Incense
A special blend used in worship, symbolizing prayers ascending to God.

Teaching Points

Sacred Contributions
The Israelites were called to give specific materials for the Tabernacle, reminding us of the importance of offering our best to God.

Symbolism of Oil and Incense
The anointing oil and incense symbolize the presence and prayers of God's people, encouraging us to maintain a life of worship and prayer.

Holiness in Worship
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's elements highlight the need for reverence and holiness in our worship practices.

Community Participation
The construction of the Tabernacle required the involvement of the entire community, teaching us the value of collective effort in serving God's purposes.

Spiritual Light
The oil for the light signifies the continuous presence of God, urging us to be vigilant in keeping our spiritual lamps burning brightly.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the call for specific contributions in Exodus 35:28 reflect the importance of intentional giving in our own lives?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the anointing oil and incense enhance our understanding of worship and prayer today?

3. How does the concept of holiness in the construction of the Tabernacle apply to our personal and communal worship experiences?

4. What lessons can we learn from the collective participation of the Israelites in building the Tabernacle, and how can we apply these lessons to our church communities?

5. How can we ensure that our spiritual "lamps" remain lit, and what role does the Holy Spirit play in this process, as seen in other scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:22-38
Provides detailed instructions for making the anointing oil and incense, emphasizing their sacredness and specific use in worship.

Leviticus 24:2
Discusses the use of oil for the light, highlighting the importance of maintaining the lampstand in the Tabernacle.

Psalm 141:2
Compares prayer to incense, illustrating the spiritual significance of the fragrant offerings.

2 Corinthians 2:15
Describes believers as the fragrance of Christ, connecting the concept of incense to the Christian witness.