Exodus 36 The Tabernacle Construction Begins

1 36 So Bezalel, Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the Lord has given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary are to do the work just as the Lord has commanded.”

2 Then Moses summoned Bezalel and Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the Lord had given ability and who was willing to come and do the work.

3 They received from Moses all the offerings the Israelites had brought to carry out the work of constructing the sanctuary. And the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning.

4 So all the skilled craftsmen who were doing all the work on the sanctuary left their work

5 and said to Moses, “The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work the Lord commanded to be done.”

6 Then Moses gave an order and they sent this word throughout the camp: “No man or woman is to make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary.” And so the people were restrained from bringing more,

7 because what they already had was more than enough to do all the work.

8 The Tabernacle
All the skilled men among the workmen made the tabernacle with ten curtains of finely twisted linen and blue, purple and scarlet yarn, with cherubim worked into them by a skilled craftsman.

9 All the curtains were the same size—twenty-eight cubits long and four cubits wide.

10 They joined five of the curtains together and did the same with the other five.

11 Then they made loops of blue material along the edge of the end curtain in one set, and the same was done with the end curtain in the other set.

12 They also made fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops on the end curtain of the other set, with the loops opposite each other.

13 Then they made fifty gold clasps and used them to fasten the two sets of curtains together so that the tabernacle was a unit.

14 They made curtains of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle—eleven altogether.

15 All eleven curtains were the same size—thirty cubits long and four cubits wide.

16 They joined five of the curtains into one set and the other six into another set.

17 Then they made fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain in one set and also along the edge of the end curtain in the other set.

18 They made fifty bronze clasps to fasten the tent together as a unit.

19 Then they made for the tent a covering of ram skins dyed red, and over that a covering of hides of sea cows.

20 They made upright frames of acacia wood for the tabernacle.

21 Each frame was ten cubits long and a cubit and a half wide,

22 with two projections set parallel to each other. They made all the frames of the tabernacle in this way.

23 They made twenty frames for the south side of the tabernacle

24 and made forty silver bases to go under them—two bases for each frame, one under each projection.

25 For the other side, the north side of the tabernacle, they made twenty frames

26 and forty silver bases—two under each frame.

27 They made six frames for the far end, that is, the west end of the tabernacle,

28 and two frames were made for the corners of the tabernacle at the far end.

29 At these two corners the frames were double from the bottom all the way to the top and fitted into a single ring; both were made alike.

30 So there were eight frames and sixteen silver bases—two under each frame.

31 They also made crossbars of acacia wood: five for the frames on one side of the tabernacle,

32 five for those on the other side, and five for the frames on the west, at the far end of the tabernacle.

33 They made the center crossbar so that it extended from end to end at the middle of the frames.

34 They overlaid the frames with gold and made gold rings to hold the crossbars. They also overlaid the crossbars with gold.

35 They made the curtain of blue, purple and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen, with cherubim worked into it by a skilled craftsman.

36 They made four posts of acacia wood for it and overlaid them with gold. They made gold hooks for them and cast their four silver bases.

37 For the entrance to the tent they made a curtain of blue, purple and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen—the work of an embroiderer;

38 and they made five posts with hooks for them. They overlaid the tops of the posts and their bands with gold and made their five bases of bronze.

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Analysis of Exodus Chapter 36

Exodus Chapter 36 is a continuation of the narrative concerning the construction of the Tabernacle, a central element of the Israelite worship of God. This chapter focuses on the practical aspects of the work, detailing the craftsmanship, materials, and contributions required for this holy endeavor. Let’s delve into a detailed analysis of this chapter, exploring its themes, theological implications, and the significance of its meticulous descriptions.

Verses 1-7: The Skilled Workers and Freewill Offerings

The chapter opens with Bezalel, Oholiab, and all the skilled workers commencing their work to construct the sanctuary. God specially endowed these craftsmen with wisdom and ability to execute the task at hand. This highlights the theme that divine inspiration and human skill work together to accomplish God’s purposes:

“So Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person to whom the Lord has given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary are to do the work just as the Lord has commanded.”

The importance of divine instruction is evident here. The workers are not executing their own plans but are meticulously following God’s commands. This underscores the importance of obedience in worship and service to God. The artisans’ obedience is contrasted with the earlier disobedience of the Israelites, making this a moment of redemption and recommitment to God’s covenant.

Furthermore, the chapter emphasizes the voluntary nature of the contributions made by the Israelites. The people bring more than enough materials—so much so that Moses has to command them to stop bringing more offerings:

“The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work the Lord commanded to be done.”

This overabundance symbolizes the Israelites’ renewed dedication and generosity. It is a marked change from their earlier greed and impatience when they created the golden calf. This section serves as a reminder that devotion and willingness to contribute to God’s work are crucial aspects of faith.

Verses 8-13: The Construction of the Curtains

This segment provides detailed instructions for making the curtains of the Tabernacle:

“All those who were skilled among the workers made the Tabernacle with ten curtains of finely twisted linen and blue, purple and scarlet yarn, with cherubim woven into them by expert hands.”

The elaborate designs and the inclusion of cherubim woven into the curtains symbolize the sacredness of the space. The cherubim recall the guardians of the Garden of Eden, signifying that the Tabernacle is a place where heaven and earth meet. The colors—blue, purple, and scarlet—are rich and royal hues, signifying the majestic presence of God in the Tabernacle.

The specific measurements and meticulous construction underscore that the Tabernacle is a divinely inspired structure, not just a human effort. This attention to detail reflects God’s meticulous nature and the importance of following His instructions precisely.

Verses 14-19: The Goat Hair Curtains and Coverings

The text continues with instructions for making additional layers of covering for the Tabernacle, this time using goat hair:

“They made curtains of goat hair for the tent over the Tabernacle—eleven altogether.”

These goat hair curtains served as a protective layer, emphasizing the Tabernacle’s role as a shelter. The multiple layers of coverings represent the layers of separation between the sacred and the profane, protecting the sanctity of the divine dwelling.

Additionally, these coverings were practical. Goat hair is durable and offers good insulation. This blend of practical and spiritual significance shows that every aspect of the Tabernacle’s construction was both a functional and a symbolic act. It teaches us that in serving God, practical considerations and spiritual meanings are often intertwined.

Verses 20-30: The Frames of the Tabernacle

The chapter proceeds with the construction of the Tabernacle’s frames:

“They made upright frames of acacia wood for the Tabernacle.”

Acacia wood was chosen for its durability and resistance to decay, symbolizing the longevity and eternal nature of God’s covenant with Israel. The frames formed the skeleton of the Tabernacle, providing structure and stability. This can be seen as a metaphor for how God’s commandments provide structure and stability to the lives of His people.

The detailed measurements and specific connections between the frames symbolize unity and cohesion. Each part is fitted together according to God’s design, illustrating that every element of God’s plan works in harmony. This serves as a reminder that the community of believers should work together in unity, each member contributing to the whole.

Verses 31-34: The Crossbars

This section describes the construction of the crossbars used to hold the frames together:

“They also made crossbars of acacia wood: five for the frames on one side of the Tabernacle, five for those on the other side, and five for the frames on the west end, at the far end of the Tabernacle.”

The number and placement of the crossbars symbolize stability and support. The crossbars ensured that the structure remained unified and steadfast, representing the support that comes from a strong community bound by faith.

The use of gold in overlaying the crossbars and the rings through which they were inserted further indicates the preciousness of the Tabernacle, reflecting God’s glory. This foreshadows the later Christian concept of the church as a place where God dwells among His people, precious and united in faith.

Verses 35-38: The Veil and the Screen for the Entrance

Finally, the chapter details the making of the veil that separates the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, as well as the screen for the entrance to the Tabernacle:

“They made the curtain of blue, purple and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen, with cherubim worked into it by a skilled craftsman.”

The veil served as a barrier between the divine presence and the people, signifying the holiness of God and the separation caused by human sin. Only the high priest could pass through this veil once a year, indicating that access to God was restricted. In the New Testament, this veil is symbolically torn at the crucifixion of Jesus, signifying that through Christ, believers now have direct access to God.

The screen for the entrance was also made of fine materials and colors, underscoring the entryway’s importance and the reverence required to approach God’s dwelling place. This sets a tone of respect and preparation for worship.

Themes and Symbolism

Several themes and symbols emerge from Exodus Chapter 36, offering deep insights into its significance:

Divine Inspiration and Human Skill: The chapter highlights that God equips individuals with the necessary skills and wisdom to accomplish His work. This partnership between divine inspiration and human effort is a central theme, suggesting that every talent and ability used in God’s service is divinely endowed.
Obedience and Detailed Execution: The meticulous nature of the instructions and their execution underscores the importance of obedience in worship. It teaches that God desires not just any service but service rendered according to His precise instructions.
Generosity and Willingness: The overabundant contributions from the Israelites reflect a transformed community that willingly and generously supports God’s work. This generosity is a sign of their renewed relationship with God.
Holiness and Separation: The various layers and sections of the Tabernacle, represented by the veils and curtains, signify the holiness and separateness of God. This serves as a physical manifestation of the sacred space where God would dwell among His people.
Unity and Structure: The detailed construction of the frames and crossbars symbolizes the foundation and unity of the community. Just as each part of the Tabernacle fits together to create a holy space, each member of the community has a role that contributes to the whole.
Symbolism of Materials and Colors: The use of acacia wood, gold, and specific colors carries rich symbolism, reflecting durability, sanctity, and divine glory. These materials elevate the Tabernacle’s significance as God’s dwelling place.

Theological Implications

Exodus Chapter 36 offers several theological insights:

God’s Presence: The Tabernacle symbolizes God’s desire to dwell among His people. Its detailed construction signifies that God’s presence is not haphazard but deliberate and meticulously planned.
Human Response to God: The chapter highlights the appropriate human response to divine commands—obedience, generosity, and skillful execution. It shows that our offerings to God should be our best, reflecting our reverence and dedication.
Community and Worship: The construction of the Tabernacle was a communal effort, involving contributions and skills from all the Israelites. This serves as a model for the Christian community, emphasizing the collective responsibility in worship and service to God.
Symbolic Foreshadowing: Elements like the veil foreshadow later Christian theological developments, such as the tearing of the veil at Jesus’ crucifixion, symbolizing the new access to God through Christ.

Conclusion

Exodus Chapter 36 is a rich tapestry of themes, symbolism, and theological insights. It details the practical aspects of constructing the Tabernacle while simultaneously offering profound lessons on obedience, generosity, divine inspiration, and the communal nature of worship. Each detail serves to elevate the significance of the Tabernacle as God’s dwelling place among His people, reflecting a deeply renewed relationship between God and the Israelites. As contemporary readers, we can glean inspiration for our own faith journeys, recognizing the importance of meticulous obedience, generosity, and unity in our service to God.

Understanding the Key Messages in Exodus 36: Insights and Explanation

In this chapter, instructions are given for the construction of the tabernacle, including the materials to be used and the skilled workers who will carry out the task. The people willingly bring their offerings to support the project, and the skilled workers start their work.

Notes

This chapter marks the beginning of the construction of the tabernacle as instructed by God. It demonstrates the people's willingness to contribute and the importance of skilled workers in carrying out God's plans.