Exodus 25:5

KJV

And rams' skins dyed red, and badgers' skins, and shittim wood,

KJV (with Strong's)

And rams {H352}' skins {H5785} dyed red {H119}, and badgers {H8476}' skins {H5785}, and shittim {H7848} wood {H6086},

Complete Jewish Bible

tanned ram skins and fine leather; acacia-wood;

Berean Standard Bible

ram skins dyed red and fine leather; acacia wood;

American Standard Version

and rams’ skins dyed red, and sealskins, and acacia wood,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 25:5 meticulously lists three crucial materials—rams' skins dyed red, badgers' skins, and shittim wood—that the Israelites were divinely commanded to contribute for the construction of the Tabernacle. These specific components were integral to forming the protective coverings and the foundational structural framework of God's portable sanctuary. This detailed instruction underscores the divine precision required for worship and the sacred space where the Lord intended to dwell intimately among His people during their wilderness journey, emphasizing both the practical needs and profound symbolic significance of each element.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 25:5 is situated within a comprehensive block of divine instructions (chapters 25-31) concerning the design and construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, delivered by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. The preceding verses, specifically [Exodus 25:1-2](/exodus/25-1-2 "Exodus 25:1-2 - The Call for Tabernacle Offerings"), initiate God's command for the Israelites to bring a "freewill offering" (Hebrew: *terumah*) from their hearts. Following a general enumeration of materials in [Exodus 25:3-7](/exodus/25-3-7 "Exodus 25:3-7 - List of Materials for the Tabernacle"), verse 5 hones in on specific animal skins and wood, highlighting their particular importance for the Tabernacle's layered coverings and its robust framework. This meticulous enumeration of precise materials underscores God's absolute sovereignty and His desire for a dwelling place built according to His exact blueprint, enabling Him to "dwell among them" ([Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Desire to Dwell Among His People")). The granular detail in these instructions sets the stage for the subsequent chapters, which meticulously describe the dimensions, design, and assembly of each component, demonstrating the divine order and holiness inherent in God's presence.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The divine directives for the Tabernacle were given to the Israelites shortly after their miraculous exodus from Egyptian bondage, while they were encamped at the base of Mount Sinai. As a people recently liberated and embarking on a nomadic journey through the wilderness, the concept of a portable sanctuary was not merely convenient but essential for maintaining a central place of worship and the tangible, visible presence of God in their midst. The materials specified in [Exodus 25:5](/exodus/25-5 "Exodus 25:5 - Materials for the Tabernacle") were either readily available in the Sinai region or were items they possessed from their time in Egypt, possibly as spoils of their departure (cf. [Exodus 12:35-36](/exodus/12-35-36 "Exodus 12:35-36 - Spoils from Egypt")). Rams were common livestock, acacia wood (shittim wood) was abundant in the desert, and the "badgers' skins" (Hebrew: *tachash*) likely referred to a durable, waterproof leather from an animal suited to the desert environment, ensuring the Tabernacle's resilience against the harsh desert climate. The Tabernacle served as the physical manifestation of God's covenant presence, a constant reminder of His guidance, provision, and protection for His peregrinating people, solidifying their identity as His chosen nation.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 25:5 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Presence**, emphasizing God's desire to dwell among His people, a promise initiated in the covenant at Sinai (cf. [Exodus 19:4-6](/exodus/19-4-6 "Exodus 19:4-6 - God's Covenant with Israel")). The Tabernacle, built from these materials, would be the physical embodiment of this presence. Secondly, the meticulous instructions underscore **Divine Holiness and Purity**, revealing that God's dwelling place must be set apart and constructed according to His perfect standards, reflecting His own character. This theme is further developed in the sacrificial system detailed in Leviticus. Thirdly, the requirement for a "freewill offering" (cf. [Exodus 35:21-29](/exodus/35-21-29 "Exodus 35:21-29 - The People's Willing Offerings")) points to the theme of **Human Response and Obedience**, where the people's willing contribution of their best resources becomes an act of worship and faithfulness. Lastly, the Tabernacle materials, particularly the red-dyed skins, subtly introduce the theme of **Atonement and Sacrifice**, which is central to the entire sacrificial system and the means by which a sinful people can approach a holy God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **red (Hebrew, _ʼâdam'_):** This word (H119) describes the color of the rams' skins. Derived from a root meaning "to show blood" or "to flush," it signifies a deep, ruddy hue. In ancient Israelite culture and throughout the Old Testament, the color red is profoundly associated with blood, life, sacrifice, and atonement. Its presence on the Tabernacle's covering immediately evokes the sacrificial system, where the shedding of blood was essential for purification and the remission of sins, signifying the life given for the atonement of another (cf. [Leviticus 17:11](/leviticus/17-11 "Leviticus 17:11 - The Life is in the Blood")).
* **badgers' (Hebrew, _tachash'_):** This term (H8476) refers to the animal whose skins formed the outermost covering of the Tabernacle. While traditionally translated "badger," scholarly debate suggests it could refer to a durable, perhaps dyed, leather from an animal like a dugong (sea cow), seal, or even a species of antelope common in the region. The critical characteristic of *tachash* skins was their exceptional durability, water-resistance, and tough nature, making them ideal for the Tabernacle's outermost protective layer against the harsh desert elements—intense sun, driving sand, and occasional rain. This material ensured the sanctuary's practical resilience and integrity.
* **shittim (Hebrew, _shiṭṭâh'_):** This word (H7848) designates acacia wood, specifically *Acacia seyal* or *Acacia nilotica*, which was abundant in the Sinai wilderness. Acacia wood is renowned for its exceptional hardness, density, resistance to decay, and immunity to insect infestation, particularly termites. Its inherent strength and resilience made it the primary structural material for the Tabernacle's framework, including the upright planks, connecting bars, and the sacred furniture such as the [Ark of the Covenant](/exodus/25-10 "Exodus 25:10 - The Ark of the Covenant"), the [Table of Showbread](/exodus/25-23 "Exodus 25:23 - The Table of Showbread"), and the altars. Its properties ensured the longevity and stability of God's dwelling place in a transient environment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And rams' skins dyed red":** These skins constituted one of the inner layers of the Tabernacle's four-layered covering system, likely placed directly over the fine linen curtains. The "red" dye (Hebrew: *m'addamim* from *ʼâdam*) held profound symbolic weight, strongly associated with blood, sacrifice, and the life principle. Its vibrant color would have been visible and served as a constant, vivid reminder of the sacrificial system central to Israelite worship and the cleansing power of atonement, which was absolutely necessary for a holy God to dwell among an unholy people. This layer visually represented the atonement that made God's presence possible.
* **"and badgers' skins":** These *tachash* skins formed the outermost, most durable, and most protective covering of the Tabernacle. Their primary function was eminently practical: to provide essential weatherproofing and robust protection against the severe desert environment, shielding the more delicate inner layers and the sacred contents from the elements of sun, sandstorms, and rain. Symbolically, this layer represented God's protective covering over His people and His dwelling, ensuring its safety and sanctity amidst a hostile world.
* **"and shittim wood":** This acacia wood served as the foundational structural material for the entire Tabernacle. It was meticulously crafted into the upright planks that formed the walls of the sanctuary, the connecting bars that held them together, and the frames for all the sacred furniture within. Its exceptional strength, resistance to decay, and durability ensured the stability and longevity of the Tabernacle, symbolizing the enduring, unyielding, and steadfast nature of God's presence and His covenant with His people, providing a firm and lasting foundation even in the midst of a transient wilderness journey.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Exodus 25:5, and indeed throughout the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, is profound **Symbolism**. Each specified material transcends mere functionality to convey deep theological meaning. The "rams' skins dyed red" vividly symbolize the blood of sacrifice and the necessity of atonement, which is the foundational means by which a holy God can commune with sinful humanity. The durable "badgers' skins" represent divine protection, resilience, and the impenetrable nature of God's dwelling, ensuring its integrity against the harsh realities of the world. The robust "shittim wood" (acacia) symbolizes the enduring nature of God's covenant, His unwavering presence, and the unshakeable foundation of His sanctuary. Furthermore, the meticulous enumeration of these specific materials highlights **Divine Precision**, emphasizing that every detail of God's dwelling and the prescribed worship was divinely ordained. This precision underscores the holiness and majesty of the Lord, revealing that His commands are to be followed with utmost seriousness and reverence, reflecting His perfect order and wisdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 25:5, in its specificity of materials, profoundly underscores several theological truths. It reveals God's meticulousness in commanding the details of His worship and dwelling, emphasizing that true worship is not arbitrary but must align with divine design. The selection of materials, from the sacrificial symbolism of the red-dyed skins to the enduring nature of acacia wood, points to the necessity of atonement for sin and the steadfastness of God's presence. The Tabernacle, built from these diverse yet complementary components, served as the physical nexus between a holy God and His redeemed people, foreshadowing the ultimate dwelling of God among humanity. This passage highlights God's desire for intimate fellowship, His provision for sin, and His unwavering commitment to His covenant people, even as they journey through a wilderness.

* [Exodus 29:43-46](/exodus/29-43-46 "God's Promise to Dwell with Israel and Sanctify the Tabernacle")
* [Leviticus 17:11](/leviticus/17-11 "Leviticus 17:11 - The Life of the Flesh is in the Blood")
* [Hebrews 9:1-5](/hebrews/9-1-5 "Hebrews 9:1-5 - Description of the Earthly Tabernacle and Its Furnishings")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's construction, as seen in Exodus 25:5, serve as a powerful reminder that God values both the spiritual intent and the practical execution of our service to Him. Just as each material—be it the sacrificial rams' skins, the protective badger skins, or the enduring acacia wood—had a specific, indispensable role in building God's dwelling, so too do our individual gifts, resources, and efforts contribute to the building up of God's spiritual temple, the Church. We are called to offer our "best" to the Lord, not merely out of obligation but with a willing heart and a commitment to quality and durability in our contributions. This verse encourages us to consider the intentionality behind our service: are we offering our time, talents, and treasures in a way that is both spiritually pure and practically effective, built to last and honor God's holy name? Our service, like the Tabernacle materials, should be fit for purpose, reflecting the enduring presence of God in our lives and in the world, demonstrating our reverence for His holiness and our commitment to His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "materials" (gifts, resources, time) am I currently offering for God's work, and do I consider their quality and purpose?**
* **How does the meticulousness of God's instructions for the Tabernacle challenge my approach to serving Him in my daily life?**
* **In what ways can I ensure that my contributions to the spiritual "dwelling place" (the Church) are both spiritually significant and practically enduring?**

### FAQ
**What was the primary purpose of the materials listed in Exodus 25:5?**

Answer: The materials listed in [Exodus 25:5](/exodus/25-5 "Exodus 25:5 - Materials for the Tabernacle")—rams' skins dyed red, badgers' skins, and shittim wood—were essential components for the physical construction of the Tabernacle, God's portable sanctuary in the wilderness. The rams' skins dyed red likely formed one of the inner covering layers, symbolizing the necessity of atonement and sacrifice. The badgers' skins served as the outermost, protective, weatherproof covering, shielding the sacred space from the harsh desert elements. The shittim (acacia) wood was the primary structural material, providing the durable framework for the Tabernacle's walls and its sacred furnishings. Each material was chosen for both its practical properties and its profound symbolic significance in establishing a holy space for God's presence among His people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 25:5, with its specific materials for the Tabernacle, profoundly foreshadows the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "rams' skins dyed red" immediately evoke the themes of blood, sacrifice, and atonement, pointing directly to Christ as the ultimate [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). His shed blood on the cross is the perfect and final sacrifice that cleanses us from sin, fulfilling the temporary and symbolic sacrifices of the Old Covenant ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11-14 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice and Atonement")). The durable "badgers' skins" that formed the Tabernacle's protective outer layer symbolize Christ's enduring strength and His role as our ultimate Protector and Shelter, shielding us from the spiritual elements of sin, judgment, and the adversary ([Psalm 91:4](/psalm/91-4 "Psalm 91:4 - God's Protection and Faithfulness")). Finally, the resilient "shittim wood," forming the stable framework of God's dwelling, points to Christ as the unshakeable foundation and enduring structure of God's true temple, which is His body, the Church ([Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20-22 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone and Growth of the Church")). Just as God dwelt among His people in the Tabernacle, so now, through Christ, God dwells with us, for Jesus is [Immanuel, God with us](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel, God With Us"), the true and perfect meeting place between heaven and earth, making possible eternal fellowship with a holy God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 26:26

And thou shalt make bars [of] shittim wood; five for the boards of the one side of the tabernacle,

Exodus 26:37

And thou shalt make for the hanging five pillars [of] shittim [wood], and overlay them with gold, [and] their hooks [shall be of] gold: and thou shalt cast five sockets of brass for them.

Exodus 27:1

¶ And thou shalt make an altar [of] shittim wood, five cubits long, and five cubits broad; the altar shall be foursquare: and the height thereof [shall be] three cubits.

Exodus 26:14

And thou shalt make a covering for the tent [of] rams' skins dyed red, and a covering above [of] badgers' skins.

Exodus 26:15

¶ And thou shalt make boards for the tabernacle [of] shittim wood standing up.

Exodus 36:20

And he made boards for the tabernacle [of] shittim wood, standing up.