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Exodus 35

35 verses

TL;DR

Moses gathers the Israelites, commands Sabbath observance, calls for a communal offering of materials for the Tabernacle, and appoints skilled craftsmen Bezaleel and Aholiab.

Summary

Moses opens the chapter by reminding the people of the Sabbath and the law that work on that day is forbidden. He then calls for a willing offering of precious metals, colored fabrics, animal skins, wood, oil, spices, and stones to build the Tabernacle and its furnishings. The Israelites respond in great generosity, bringing gold, silver, linen, and other materials, while both men and women contribute. God then names Bezaleel, a master craftsman, and his apprentice Aholiab to supervise the detailed work. The chapter highlights communal cooperation, divine provision, and the skilled artistry required to create the sacred space.

Outline
  1. Moses instructs Sabbath observance and gathers the Israelites for offerings.
  2. Collective contributions of metals, fabrics, skins, wood, oil, and spices for the Tabernacle.
  3. God appoints Bezaleel and Aholiab as chief artisans for the sacred work.
Themes
Communal labor and generosityDivine commissioning of skilled craftsmanshipObservance of the Sabbath as a holy day
Keywords
SabbathTabernacleofferingsBezaleelAholiabcraftsmanshipcommunity
People
MosesBezaleelAholiabAaron
Places
Tabernacle
Things
goldsilverbrassblue clothpurple clothscarlet clothfine linengoats' hairrams' skins dyed redbadgers' skinsshittim woodoil for lampsspices for anointing oilsweet incenseonyx stonesephod stonesbreastplate stonespillarsark of the covenantmercy seatcandlesticktableshowbreadincense altarburnt offering altarlaverhangingspinspriestly garments
Key Verses
  • Exodus 35:1: Moses opens with a call to gather and outlines the divine command.
  • Exodus 35:3: Introduces the Sabbath law that sets the tone for holiness.
  • Exodus 35:5: Lists the materials to be offered, showing the breadth of communal contribution.
  • Exodus 35:30: God names Bezaleel, illustrating divine selection of skilled leaders.
Questions
  • How does the chapter demonstrate the relationship between communal generosity and divine instruction?
  • In what ways does Sabbath observance affect the work and spirit of the community?
  • What qualities did God value in Bezaleel and Aholiab for the sacred work?
  • How might modern communities apply the principle of willing contribution seen here?
Sentiment

positive
The passage exudes encouragement, celebration of generosity, and divine approval.