Exodus 35:23

And every man, with whom was found blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats' [hair], and red skins of rams, and badgers' skins, brought [them].

And every man {H376}, with whom was found {H4672} blue {H8504}, and purple {H713}, and scarlet {H8144}{H8438}, and fine linen {H8336}, and goats {H5795}' hair, and red {H119} skins {H5785} of rams {H352}, and badgers {H8476}' skins {H5785}, brought {H935} them.

Everyone who had blue, purple or scarlet yarn; fine linen; tanned ram skins or fine leather brought them.

Everyone who had blue, purple, or scarlet yarn, or fine linen, goat hair, ram skins dyed red, or articles of fine leather, brought them.

And every man, with whom was found blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats’ hair, and rams’ skins dyed red, and sealskins, brought them.

Commentary

Exodus 35:23 provides a detailed list of the valuable materials brought by the Israelite community for the construction of the Tabernacle in the wilderness. This verse highlights the immediate and generous response of the people following Moses' call for offerings.

Context

This verse is situated within the broader narrative of the Tabernacle's construction, specifically after God has given Moses the detailed blueprints on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25-31). Moses, empowered by divine instruction, then calls upon the Israelites to contribute materials from their possessions with a willing heart. This particular verse enumerates some of the precious and essential items that individuals spontaneously brought forth, demonstrating their eagerness to participate in building a dwelling place for God among them.

Key Themes

  • Generosity and Willingness: The phrase "every man, with whom was found" implies that individuals who possessed these specific items did not hoard them but freely offered them for the sacred project. This was a voluntary act of devotion, crucial for the Tabernacle's completion.
  • Specific Materials for Sacred Use: The verse lists highly prized textiles and animal products:
    • Blue, Purple, and Scarlet: These vibrant dyes (techelet, argaman, tola'at shani) were costly and often associated with royalty, divinity, and wealth. They were vital for the intricate curtains, veils, and priestly garments, signifying the holiness and majesty of God's presence.
    • Fine Linen: Known as shesh, this high-quality Egyptian linen symbolized purity and was used extensively for the Tabernacle's inner coverings and priestly attire.
    • Goats' Hair: A more coarse but durable material, used for the outer tent coverings, providing protection.
    • Red Skins of Rams: Rams' skins dyed red, likely used as an additional protective layer for the Tabernacle.
    • Badgers' Skins: The exact identification of "badgers' skins" (tahash) is debated, possibly referring to durable, waterproof leather like sealskin or dugong hide. This would have formed the outermost, most protective layer against the elements.
  • Community Participation: The verse emphasizes "every man," highlighting that the burden and privilege of contributing were shared among the entire community, reflecting collective ownership and dedication to the divine command.

Practical Application

Exodus 35:23 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of willing hearts in serving God. Just as the Israelites brought their diverse and valuable possessions for the Tabernacle, believers today are called to offer their unique gifts, talents, and resources to build up the body of Christ and further God's kingdom. Whether it's time, skills, or financial contributions, God values the sincerity and generosity of the giver, echoing the sentiment that God loves a cheerful giver. This passage inspires us to consider what we possess that can be used for God's glory and to offer it freely.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Chronicles 29:8

    And they with whom [precious] stones were found gave [them] to the treasure of the house of the LORD, by the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite.

  • Exodus 35:6

    And blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats' [hair],

  • Exodus 35:10

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

  • Exodus 25:2

    Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering.

  • Exodus 25:7

    Onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate.
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