Exodus 35:1

KJV

¶ And Moses gathered all the congregation of the children of Israel together, and said unto them, These [are] the words which the LORD hath commanded, that [ye] should do them.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Moses {H4872} gathered {H6950} all the congregation {H5712} of the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} together {H6950}, and said {H559} unto them, These are the words {H1697} which the LORD {H3068} hath commanded {H6680}, that ye should do {H6213} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moshe assembled the whole community of the people of Isra'el and said to them, "These are the things which ADONAI has ordered you to do.

Berean Standard Bible

Then Moses assembled the whole congregation of Israel and said to them, “These are the things that the LORD has commanded you to do:

American Standard Version

And Moses assembled all the congregation of the children of Israel, and said unto them, These are the words which Jehovah hath commanded, that ye should do them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 35:1 serves as a pivotal moment in Israel's wilderness journey, marking a critical transition from the theological pronouncements of covenant renewal to the practical implementation of God's commands. Following the profound events of Moses's second descent from Mount Sinai with renewed tablets, this verse depicts Moses gathering the entire congregation. It re-establishes direct divine communication with the people after the golden calf apostasy, initiating the detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and the re-emphasis of the Sabbath, thereby underscoring divine authority and the communal imperative for obedient action.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the profound events of covenant renewal detailed in [Exodus 34](/exodus/34 "Exodus 34 - Covenant Renewal and Moses's Radiant Face"). Moses has just returned from his second forty-day period on [Mount Sinai](/exodus/34-29 "Exodus 34:29 - Moses's Radiant Face"), bearing the new tablets of the Law, a testament to God's gracious restoration of His relationship with Israel despite their egregious sin of the golden calf (as recounted in [Exodus 32](/exodus/32 "Exodus 32 - The Golden Calf")). Therefore, Exodus 35:1 acts as a vital bridge, moving from the theological pronouncements of divine mercy and covenant re-establishment to the practical, communal implementation of God's commands, particularly those concerning the sacred space for worship and the principles of holy living. It sets the stage for the detailed blueprints of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, as well as the re-emphasis on the Sabbath, which will occupy the subsequent chapters of [Exodus 35-40](/exodus/35 "Exodus 35-40 - Tabernacle Instructions and Construction").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The gathering of "all the congregation of the children of Israel" by Moses was a solemn and necessary act in the wake of the devastating golden calf incident, which had threatened to sever God's presence from His people (as seen in [Exodus 33:3](/exodus/33-3 "Exodus 33:3 - God's Refusal to Go With Israel")). This assembly signified a fresh start, a re-commitment to the covenant, and a public declaration of God's renewed instructions. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, such communal gatherings were common for important announcements, legal proceedings, or religious ceremonies. For Israel, this assembly underscored their identity as a people bound by covenant to Yahweh, distinct from the idolatrous nations around them. The commands that follow, particularly regarding the Tabernacle, were not merely architectural plans but vital components for establishing Israel's unique system of worship, atonement, and the tangible manifestation of God's dwelling presence among them, thereby solidifying their national and religious identity in the wilderness.

* **Key Themes:** Exodus 35:1 contributes significantly to several key themes prevalent throughout the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it reinforces the theme of **Divine Authority and Sovereignty**, as the "words which the LORD hath commanded" are presented as non-negotiable mandates from the ultimate King. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Covenant Relationship and Obedience**, demonstrating that Israel's restored relationship with God requires their active and collective submission to His will, moving beyond mere theological understanding to practical "doing." This is especially crucial after the covenant breach in [Exodus 32](/exodus/32 "Exodus 32 - The Golden Calf"). Thirdly, the verse sets the stage for the theme of **God's Dwelling Presence**, as the subsequent instructions for the Tabernacle indicate God's desire to reside among His people, a concept central to Israel's identity and worship (as foreshadowed in [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - Let Them Make Me a Sanctuary")). Finally, it underscores the theme of **Communal Responsibility**, emphasizing that God's commands are given to the entire "congregation," demanding unified participation and accountability from every member of the covenant community, a theme echoed in later calls for corporate faithfulness (e.g., [Deuteronomy 29:10-15](/deuteronomy/29-10-15 "Deuteronomy 29:10-15 - All Israel Stands Before the LORD")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Gathered (Hebrew, _qâhal'_):** This verb, derived from a primitive root meaning "to convoke," signifies the act of assembling or collecting people into a formal congregation. It is the root of the noun _qāhāl_ (congregation or assembly), highlighting that Moses's action was not merely a casual meeting but a deliberate, authoritative convocation of the entire community for a sacred purpose. The use of this word emphasizes the corporate nature of God's covenant and commands – they were given to the collective body of Israel, not just to individuals in isolation.
* **Congregation (Hebrew, _ʻêdâh'_):** This feminine noun refers to a "stated assemblage," specifically denoting the community of Israel as a divinely appointed assembly. This term often carries legal and religious connotations, signifying the organized body of God's people, responsible for covenantal obligations. It underscores the idea that the commands were for the entire, unified people, demanding collective obedience and participation in their shared identity and purpose.
* **Commanded (Hebrew, _tsâvâh'_):** This verb, from a primitive root meaning "to constitute, enjoin," denotes a strong, authoritative directive, an imperative from a superior to a subordinate. When used of God, it emphasizes the divine origin and binding nature of the instructions. It is not a suggestion or a request, but a non-negotiable mandate that requires diligent attention and active obedience. This term reinforces the absolute authority of the LORD over His people and the sanctity of His revealed will.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Moses gathered all the congregation of the children of Israel together":** This clause highlights Moses's divinely appointed role as mediator and leader. The act of gathering "all" emphasizes the inclusivity and corporate responsibility of the entire community, from the elders to the common people, in receiving and responding to God's word. It signifies a formal convocation, setting a serious tone for what is to follow, especially in light of the recent covenant breach.
* **"and said unto them,":** This simple yet profound phrase underscores the direct communication of God's will through His chosen prophet. It signals that the following words are not Moses's own opinions or suggestions, but a divine message being delivered verbatim to the assembled people, establishing the authority of the message.
* **"These [are] the words which the LORD hath commanded,":** This declarative statement unequivocally asserts the divine origin and absolute authority of the forthcoming instructions. The phrase "the LORD hath commanded" (Hebrew: *Yahweh tsâvâh*) leaves no room for doubt; the words are not human inventions but direct, authoritative mandates from God Himself. This establishes the sanctity and binding nature of the Law and the subsequent Tabernacle instructions.
* **"that [ye] should do them.":** This concluding phrase serves as a powerful imperative, shifting the focus from passive hearing to active obedience. It stresses the necessity of practical implementation and diligent adherence to God's commands. True faith, for Israel, was not merely intellectual assent to divine truth but involved tangible, communal action in accordance with God's revealed will, demonstrating their commitment to the covenant.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 35:1 employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Direct Address**, as Moses directly speaks to "all the congregation of the children of Israel," emphasizing the communal nature of God's covenant and the universal applicability of His commands to every individual within the nation. The phrase "These are the words which the LORD hath commanded" serves as a powerful **Declaration of Divine Authority**, setting an authoritative tone and ensuring that the audience understands the ultimate source and binding nature of the forthcoming instructions. This also functions as a **Transitional Statement**, effectively bridging the narrative from the covenant renewal and theological pronouncements in [Exodus 34](/exodus/34 "Exodus 34 - Covenant Renewal") to the practical instructions for the Tabernacle's construction and the re-emphasis on the Sabbath that follow in [Exodus 35](/exodus/35 "Exodus 35 - Tabernacle Instructions Begin"). Finally, the concluding imperative "that ye should do them" acts as an **Emphasis on Obedience**, highlighting that the ultimate purpose of receiving God's words is not merely intellectual understanding or passive reception, but active, tangible compliance and faithful living.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 35:1 powerfully articulates the foundational theological principle of divine authority and the corresponding human responsibility of obedience. God, as the sovereign LORD (Yahweh), issues commands that are absolute and binding, demanding a response of diligent action from His people. The act of "gathering all the congregation" underscores the corporate nature of God's covenant with Israel; His commands are not for a select few but for the entire community, demanding collective participation and accountability. This verse initiates the practical outworking of the renewed covenant, moving from the abstract principles of God's character and law to the concrete acts of worship and communal living centered around the Tabernacle, which symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people. It highlights that true relationship with God is expressed through active and diligent submission to His revealed will, a truth that transcends the Old Testament and resonates throughout redemptive history.

* [Deuteronomy 29:10-13](/deuteronomy/29-10-13 "Deuteronomy 29:10-13 - All Israel Stands Before the LORD")
* [Joshua 24:14-15](/joshua/24-14-15 "Joshua 24:14-15 - Choose This Day Whom You Will Serve")
* [James 1:22-25](/james/1-22-25 "James 1:22-25 - Be Doers of the Word, Not Hearers Only")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 35:1 serves as a timeless reminder that God’s Word is meant to be received and obeyed by His entire people. Just as ancient Israel was called to assemble and diligently "do" the commands related to the Tabernacle and the Sabbath, believers today are called to gather as the body of Christ and actively live out the commands of God. This verse challenges us to move beyond mere intellectual assent to Scripture, urging us towards practical, communal obedience. It highlights that our faith is not a private, individualistic pursuit but a corporate journey, demanding our active participation in the life and mission of the church. The emphasis on "doing" reminds us that genuine spiritual transformation is evidenced by a life of submission to God's will, transforming our daily lives into acts of worship and service, reflecting the very character of God to a watching world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the corporate nature of God's commands to Israel in this verse inform our understanding of communal responsibility within the church today?**
* **In what specific areas of your life are you being called to move from merely hearing God's "words" to actively "doing them"?**
* **How does the divine authority proclaimed in this verse shape your approach to Scripture and its application in your life, especially when facing difficult or counter-cultural commands?**

### FAQ
**Why did Moses need to "gather all the congregation" again after the golden calf incident?**

Answer: Moses needed to gather the entire congregation again because the golden calf incident (recounted in [Exodus 32](/exodus/32 "Exodus 32 - The Golden Calf")) had severely broken the covenant relationship between God and Israel. This new gathering, following God's gracious renewal of the covenant in [Exodus 34](/exodus/34 "Exodus 34 - Covenant Renewal"), was essential for several reasons: to publicly reaffirm God's presence and renewed covenant with His people, to re-establish Moses's leadership and God's authority after a period of profound disobedience, and critically, to impart new, specific instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and the re-emphasis of the Sabbath. This assembly symbolized a fresh start, a collective re-commitment to obedience, and a unified reception of the divine directives necessary for their continued journey and worship as God's chosen people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 35:1, with its emphasis on Moses gathering the congregation to receive and obey God's commands for the Tabernacle, powerfully foreshadows the Person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as Moses mediated the Old Covenant, Jesus is the ultimate Mediator of the New Covenant, gathering a new "congregation"—the Church—not through a physical assembly in the wilderness but through His call to discipleship (as seen in [Matthew 4:19](/matthew/4-19 "Matthew 4:19 - Jesus Calls Disciples") and [John 10:16](/john/10-16 "John 10:16 - My Sheep Hear My Voice")). The "words which the LORD hath commanded" find their ultimate embodiment and fulfillment in Christ, who is the Living Word of God, eternally existing with God and becoming flesh to dwell among us ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God") and [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). While Israel was commanded to build a physical Tabernacle as a dwelling place for God, Christ Himself is the true Tabernacle, the ultimate dwelling of God among humanity ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") again, where "dwelt among us" literally means "tabernacled"). Furthermore, through His perfect obedience, Jesus fulfilled every command of the Law ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")), enabling His followers, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to truly "do them" not by ritualistic adherence but by transformed hearts that live out the spirit of the Law, loving God and neighbor ([Romans 8:3-4](/romans/8-3-4 "Romans 8:3-4 - The Law Fulfilled in Us") and [Galatians 5:14](/galatians/5-14 "Galatians 5:14 - The Whole Law Fulfilled in Love")). Thus, Exodus 35:1 ultimately points to Christ as the one who perfectly reveals God's commands, perfectly obeys them, and perfectly enables His people to live in obedient fellowship with God, becoming a spiritual temple where God dwells ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - A Spiritual House")).

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 34:32

And afterward all the children of Israel came nigh: and he gave them in commandment all that the LORD had spoken with him in mount Sinai.

Exodus 25:1

¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

Exodus 25:40

And look that thou make [them] after their pattern, which was shewed thee in the mount.

James 1:22

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

Matthew 7:21

¶ Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Matthew 7:27

And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.

Romans 2:13

(For not the hearers of the law [are] just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.