Sealskins are mentioned in the context of the construction of the Tabernacle in the wilderness, as described in the Old Testament. The term "sealskins" is often translated from the Hebrew word "tachash," which has been the subject of much debate among scholars and translators. In the Berean Standard Bible, the term is rendered as "fine leather."

Biblical References:

1. Exodus 25:5 : "ram skins dyed red and fine leather; acacia wood." This verse lists materials to be used for the Tabernacle, including "fine leather," which some translations interpret as sealskins. The use of such durable materials underscores the importance and sanctity of the Tabernacle as a dwelling place for God's presence among the Israelites.

2. Exodus 26:14 : "Also make for the tent a covering of ram skins dyed red, and over that a covering of fine leather." Here, the fine leather serves as an outer covering for the Tabernacle, providing protection from the elements. The layering of materials reflects the care and precision commanded by God in the construction of His holy sanctuary.

3. Numbers 4:6 : "Then they are to cover the curtain with fine leather, spread a cloth of solid blue over it, and insert its poles." This instruction is part of the duties assigned to the Levites for the transportation of the Tabernacle. The use of fine leather, possibly sealskins, indicates the need for durable and protective materials during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness.

Interpretation and Significance:

The use of sealskins or fine leather in the construction of the Tabernacle highlights the importance of using high-quality, resilient materials for sacred purposes. The Tabernacle was not only a place of worship but also a symbol of God's covenant and presence with His people. The choice of materials reflects the reverence and obedience required in the service of God.

The debate over the exact nature of "tachash" has led to various interpretations, including porpoise skins, badger skins, or simply fine leather. Regardless of the specific animal, the emphasis remains on the quality and suitability of the material for its intended sacred use.

In a broader theological context, the use of sealskins can be seen as a reflection of God's provision and the Israelites' reliance on available resources during their wilderness journey. The meticulous instructions for the Tabernacle's construction serve as a reminder of the order and holiness that God desires in worship and community life.Sealskins (6 Occurrences)

Exodus 25:5
and rams'skins dyed red, and sealskins, and acacia wood,
(See JPS ASV)

Exodus 26:14
And thou shalt make a covering for the tent of rams'skins dyed red, and a covering of sealskins above.
(See JPS ASV)

Exodus 35:7
and rams'skins dyed red, and sealskins, and acacia wood,
(See JPS ASV)

Exodus 35:23
And every man, with whom was found blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats hair , and rams'skins dyed red, and sealskins, brought them.
(See JPS ASV)

Exodus 36:19
And he made a covering for the tent of rams'skins dyed red, and a covering of sealskins above.
(See JPS ASV)

Exodus 39:34
and the covering of rams'skins dyed red, and the covering of sealskins, and the veil of the screen;
(See JPS ASV)

Sealskins (6 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Sealskins (6 Occurrences). Exodus 25:5 and rams'skins
dyed red, and sealskins, and acacia wood, (See JPS ASV). ...
/s/sealskins.htm - 7k

Sealskin (8 Occurrences)

/s/sealskin.htm - 9k

Seam (3 Occurrences)

/s/seam.htm - 8k

Goatskins (8 Occurrences)
... 35:23 And every man, with whom was found blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine
linen, and goats' hair, and rams' skins dyed red, and sealskins, brought them. ...
/g/goatskins.htm - 8k

Screening (3 Occurrences)
... (See JPS). Exodus 39:34 and the covering of rams' skins dyed red, and the covering
of sealskins, and the veil of the screen; (See NAS). ...
/s/screening.htm - 7k

Skin (115 Occurrences)
... The Revised Version, rejecting the translation "badgers' skins," substitutes
"sealskins" and adds "porpoise skins" in the margin. ...
/s/skin.htm - 44k

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