Exodus 35:10

KJV

And every wise hearted among you shall come, and make all that the LORD hath commanded;

KJV (with Strong's)

And every wise {H2450} hearted {H3820} among you shall come {H935}, and make {H6213} all that the LORD {H3068} hath commanded {H6680};

Complete Jewish Bible

"'Then let all the craftsmen among you come and make everything ADONAI has ordered:

Berean Standard Bible

Let every skilled craftsman among you come and make everything that the LORD has commanded:

American Standard Version

And let every wise-hearted man among you come, and make all that Jehovah hath commanded:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 35:10 serves as a profound divine summons, calling the community of Israel to actively participate in the monumental construction of the Tabernacle. Following God's meticulously detailed blueprints, Moses extends an invitation to those uniquely endowed with "wise hearts"—individuals possessing both spiritual discernment and practical skill—to step forward. Their mission is to apply their God-given abilities to meticulously craft every component of the sacred dwelling, ensuring that all is made precisely according to the Lord's explicit commands. This verse powerfully underscores the indispensable interplay of divine enablement and human obedience in accomplishing God's redemptive purposes and establishing His presence among His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 35:10 is strategically positioned within Moses' concluding instructions to the Israelites concerning the Tabernacle's construction. This follows the profound national crisis of the [golden calf apostasy](/exodus/32 "Exodus 32 - The Golden Calf") and the subsequent, gracious renewal of God's covenant with Israel in [Exodus 34](/exodus/34 "Exodus 34 - Renewal of the Covenant"). The preceding chapters, [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Tabernacle Instructions Begin"), meticulously detail God's specific architectural and material requirements, which Moses received on Mount Sinai. Chapter 35 commences with Moses gathering the entire congregation, reiterating the Sabbath command, and then calling for freewill offerings of materials for the Tabernacle (Exodus 35:4-9). Verse 10 marks a pivotal transition from the contribution of physical resources to the crucial need for skilled labor, inviting those with specific, divinely-enabled abilities to come forward and execute the intricate craftsmanship. This sets the immediate stage for the divine appointment and empowering of Bezalel and Aholiab as the chief artisans in [Exodus 35:30-35](/exodus/35-30-35 "Exodus 35:30-35 - Bezalel and Aholiab Called and Empowered").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Tabernacle represented an unprecedented undertaking for a nomadic people recently liberated from centuries of slavery. It was destined to become the central place of worship and the tangible dwelling of God's holy presence among His people, a portable sanctuary designed to reflect divine order and holiness. In the broader ancient Near Eastern cultures, the erection of temples and sacred spaces typically involved highly specialized, often hereditary, guilds of artisans and craftsmen. However, for Israel, the call was distinct: every individual, regardless of social standing, was invited to contribute, whether through material donations or through the application of their skills. The concept of "wise hearted" in this context is crucial, highlighting that such skills were not merely innate talent but were profoundly understood as a divine endowment, essential for sacred tasks. This communal, Spirit-empowered effort fostered unity and a shared sense of ownership in their unique covenant relationship with Yahweh, standing in stark contrast to the impulsive, unauthorized, and idolatrous construction of the [golden calf](/exodus/32-4 "Exodus 32:4 - The Golden Calf Creation").
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Provision and Equipping**, demonstrating that God not only gives a command but also provides the means and the gifted individuals to fulfill it. Secondly, it highlights **Human Responsibility and Obedience**, emphasizing that God's people are called to a willing and precise response to His commands. Thirdly, the verse reinforces the theme of **Communal Participation and Unity**, as the Tabernacle's construction was a collective effort, requiring every gifted individual to contribute their part. Finally, it speaks to the theme of **God's Desire to Dwell Among His People**, as the Tabernacle was the physical manifestation of His presence, a holy space requiring meticulous craftsmanship to reflect His character and facilitate worship, a concept that finds its ultimate expression in the incarnation of Christ (as seen in [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wise (Hebrew, _châkâm'_):** This word signifies not merely intellectual knowledge but a practical, applied wisdom, often implying skill, expertise, or ingenuity. In the context of the Tabernacle, it denotes a specialized aptitude for craftsmanship and artistic execution. It suggests a discernment that enables one to understand and implement complex designs and instructions with precision.
* **Hearted (Hebrew, _lêb'_):** In ancient Hebrew thought, the "heart" (lêb) is far more comprehensive than just the seat of emotions; it encompasses the entire inner person—intellect, will, conscience, moral character, and even practical skill. Thus, "wise hearted" (châkâm lêb) describes individuals whose wisdom is not just theoretical but deeply embedded in their very being, their will, and their practical capacity, enabling them to apply their understanding skillfully and purposefully. It denotes an inner disposition for excellent work.
* **Make (Hebrew, _ʻâsâh'_):** This is a broad and fundamental verb meaning "to do," "to make," "to create," "to accomplish," or "to perform." In this context, it emphasizes the active, tangible execution of the divine commands. It moves beyond mere possession of skill to the actual, physical production of the Tabernacle components. This highlights the imperative for practical, diligent labor in bringing God's instructions to fruition.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And every wise hearted among you shall come,"**: This clause functions as a divine summons and an invitation. The phrase "wise hearted" identifies a specific group of individuals within the Israelite community—those uniquely gifted with practical wisdom, skill, and discerning insight for craftsmanship. The imperative to "come" implies a voluntary yet obedient response, a stepping forward to consecrate one's divinely-enabled abilities for the sacred task. It underscores that God's work requires human participation, specifically from those He has supernaturally equipped.
* **"and make all that the LORD hath commanded;"**: This segment precisely defines the scope and the required fidelity of the work. The "wise hearted" are not free to innovate or create according to their own designs; rather, they are to "make all"—every single detail, every component, every measurement—exactly as "the LORD hath commanded." This emphasizes the non-negotiable adherence to God's divine blueprint for the Tabernacle, underscoring the paramount importance of faithfulness, accuracy, and absolute obedience in executing God's instructions for His holy dwelling place. The Tabernacle was to be a precise earthly representation of heavenly realities, demanding meticulous and consecrated craftsmanship.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 35:10 employs several potent literary devices. The phrase "wise hearted" is a striking example of **Metonymy**, where "heart" (the seat of inner disposition and intellect) stands for the entire person and their practical capabilities. This emphasizes that the required wisdom is not merely intellectual but deeply integrated into one's being and practical ability. The verse also functions as a **Divine Mandate** and a call to **Communal Participation**, as Moses, acting as God's authoritative representative, issues a direct summons for the entire community, particularly the skilled, to contribute to a sacred, divinely ordained project. The repetitive emphasis on "all that the LORD hath commanded" (which echoes throughout the Tabernacle instructions from [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Tabernacle Instructions") onwards) functions as a form of **Anaphora** and **Emphasis**, underscoring the absolute necessity of precise obedience to divine specifications. This meticulous precision in construction is itself a profound form of **Symbolism**, as the Tabernacle's exact design and execution were meant to symbolize God's holiness, His perfect order, and His desire for a precise, covenantal relationship with His people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 35:10 profoundly illustrates the theological principle that God not only calls His people to service but also sovereignly equips them with the necessary gifts and abilities for the tasks He assigns. The "wise hearted" are not merely naturally talented individuals; rather, their skills are divinely imparted or enhanced for sacred purposes, demonstrating God's meticulous and comprehensive provision for the accomplishment of His will. This highlights the profound intertwining of divine grace and human responsibility, where God graciously enables, and humanity responds in willing and obedient service. The Tabernacle, as the physical manifestation of God's presence among His people, required a community-wide effort, emphasizing that every gift and every individual's contribution, no matter how seemingly small or specialized, is vital for building God's kingdom and facilitating His dwelling among His people. This ancient call to service resonates deeply with the New Testament understanding of spiritual gifts, where each member of the body of Christ is uniquely gifted for the common good.

* [Romans 12:6-8](/romans/12-6-8 "Romans 12:6-8 - Gifts for Service in the Body of Christ")
* [1 Corinthians 12:7-11](/1_corinthians/12-7-11 "1 Corinthians 12:7-11 - Manifestation of the Spirit")
* [Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - Created for Good Works")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 35:10 offers profound and enduring insights for believers today, reminding us that God continues to call and equip His people with diverse talents, natural abilities, and spiritual gifts for the advancement of His kingdom. Just as He needed skilled artisans for the construction of His earthly dwelling, He needs individuals today who are "wise hearted"—possessing both God-given ability and a willing, consecrated spirit—to serve in various capacities within the church and the world. This verse challenges us to recognize that our abilities, whether intellectual, creative, practical, relational, or administrative, are not merely for personal gain or self-expression but are divine endowments intended for God's glory and the good of His people. It calls us to diligently identify our unique gifts, cultivate them with excellence, and, most importantly, offer them in willing, obedient, and humble service to "make all that the LORD hath commanded" in our spheres of influence. Our service should be motivated by a deep desire to honor God and obey His calling, not by compulsion, pride, or personal ambition, thereby echoing the New Testament concept of the body of Christ where each member contributes according to their unique gifting for the edification of the whole.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific "wise-hearted" skills, talents, or spiritual gifts do you believe God has uniquely given you?**
* **How are you currently using your God-given abilities to "make all that the LORD has commanded" in your personal life, your church community, or your broader sphere of influence?**
* **In what ways might you be holding back your gifts or hesitating to offer them more fully to God's service, and what practical steps can you take to overcome these barriers?**

### FAQ
**What does "wise hearted" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: "Wise hearted" (Hebrew: `ḥakam lev`) refers to individuals who possess not only intellectual understanding and discernment but also practical skill, ingenuity, and an inner disposition to apply that wisdom expertly for a divine purpose. It signifies a divinely imparted aptitude for craftsmanship and skilled labor, particularly for sacred tasks. It is more than just natural talent; it implies a spiritual endowment that enables one to execute God's commands with precision and excellence, as powerfully exemplified by [Bezalel and Aholiab, who were filled with the Spirit of God for this very purpose, in Exodus 31:1-6](/exodus/31-1-6 "Exodus 31:1-6 - Bezalel and Aholiab Chosen and Empowered").

**Why was it so important to "make all that the LORD hath commanded"?**

Answer: The meticulous adherence to God's commands in building the Tabernacle was paramount for several profound reasons. Firstly, the Tabernacle was to be the earthly dwelling place of a holy God, and its design reflected His perfect character, order, and holiness. Any deviation would imply human presumption, a lack of reverence, or a failure to grasp the divine nature. Secondly, the Tabernacle and its intricate furnishings were rich in profound symbolism, meticulously designed to foreshadow future realities and the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Precision ensured that these divine symbols conveyed their intended truths accurately and powerfully. Thirdly, it served as a tangible demonstration of Israel's obedience and faithfulness to the covenant, a vital and foundational aspect of their unique relationship with Yahweh, as reiterated throughout the detailed instructions in [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Tabernacle Instructions").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 35:10, with its profound emphasis on divinely gifted individuals building a consecrated dwelling place for God, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle, meticulously crafted by the "wise hearted" according to God's precise blueprint, was a temporary and symbolic dwelling for God's holy presence among His people. In Christ, God's presence is no longer confined to a physical tent but is fully, perfectly, and eternally embodied in a person. As [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") so profoundly declares, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us," the Greek word for "made his dwelling" (`eskēnōsen`) directly echoes the idea of pitching a tent or tabernacling. Jesus is the ultimate "wise-hearted" one, perfectly equipped by the Holy Spirit to accomplish all that the Father commanded, not merely by building a physical structure, but by embodying the very presence of God and establishing His eternal kingdom. Furthermore, through Christ, believers themselves become living stones in a spiritual temple, the church, where God now dwells by His Holy Spirit ([Ephesians 2:20-22](/ephesians/2-20-22 "Ephesians 2:20-22 - Christ the Cornerstone, Church the Temple")). We, as members of His body, are now the "wise hearted" ones, equipped with diverse spiritual gifts by the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 12:4-7](/1_corinthians/12-4-7 "1 Corinthians 12:4-7 - Diversity of Gifts, Unity of Spirit")) to build up this spiritual house, continuing the work of "making all that the LORD hath commanded" through the spread of the gospel and the edification of the saints, all centered on our Lord Jesus Christ, who is both the architect and the cornerstone of this new, living temple.

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 31:1

¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

Exodus 31:6

And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee;

Exodus 36:1

¶ Then wrought Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wise hearted man, in whom the LORD put wisdom and understanding to know how to work all manner of work for the service of the sanctuary, according to all that the LORD had commanded.

Exodus 36:4

And all the wise men, that wrought all the work of the sanctuary, came every man from his work which they made;