Exodus 35:24

KJV

Every one that did offer an offering of silver and brass brought the LORD'S offering: and every man, with whom was found shittim wood for any work of the service, brought [it].

KJV (with Strong's)

Every one that did offer {H7311} an offering {H8641} of silver {H3701} and brass {H5178} brought {H935} the LORD'S {H3068} offering {H8641}: and every man, with whom was found {H4672} shittim {H7848} wood {H6086} for any work {H4399} of the service {H5656}, brought {H935} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

Everyone contributing silver or bronze brought his offering for ADONAI, and everyone who had acacia-wood suitable for any of the work brought it.

Berean Standard Bible

And all who could present an offering of silver or bronze brought it as a contribution to the LORD. Also, everyone who had acacia wood for any part of the service brought it.

American Standard Version

Every one that did offer an offering of silver and brass brought Jehovah’s offering; and every man, with whom was found acacia wood for any work of the service, brought it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 35:24 details the specific contributions of silver, brass, and shittim wood brought by the Israelites for the construction of the Tabernacle. This verse highlights the widespread and willing participation of the community in providing essential materials for God's dwelling place in the wilderness, underscoring their collective devotion and obedience to the divine directives given through Moses. It serves as a testament to the people's generous response to the call for offerings, ensuring that all necessary resources were available for the sacred work.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 35:24 is situated within the broader narrative of the Tabernacle's construction, specifically following Moses' detailed reiteration of God's commands for its design and the call for voluntary offerings (from [Exodus 35:4](/exodus/35-4 "Exodus 35:4 - Call for Offerings") to [Exodus 35:19](/exodus/35-19 "Exodus 35:19 - Specific Materials for the Tabernacle")). This verse, along with the surrounding verses (e.g., [Exodus 35:20-29](/exodus/35-20 "Exodus 35:20-29 - The People's Willing Contributions")), describes the people's immediate and enthusiastic response. It follows the general invitation for "everyone whose heart stirred him and everyone whose spirit was willing" ([Exodus 35:21](/exodus/35-21 "Exodus 35:21 - Willing Hearted Contributions")) and precedes the specific listing of skilled craftsmen appointed by God ([Exodus 35:30-35](/exodus/35-30 "Exodus 35:30-35 - The Appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab")). The verse emphasizes the tangible outcome of the people's willing hearts, providing the raw materials necessary for the artisans to commence their work, thus bridging the command to build with the actual construction process.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for Exodus 35:24 is the Sinai wilderness, where the Israelites had recently received the Law and the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle. This portable sanctuary was to serve as the tangible symbol of God's presence among His people, a place for atonement and worship. The materials mentioned—silver, brass (bronze), and shittim wood—were not randomly chosen. Silver and brass were likely acquired from the Egyptians during the Exodus ([Exodus 12:35-36](/exodus/12-35 "Exodus 12:35-36 - Spoils from Egypt")), representing a divine provision for their sacred task. Shittim wood, derived from the acacia tree, was indigenous to the arid regions of the Sinai Peninsula. Its properties—durability, hardness, and resistance to decay and insects—made it an ideal and practical choice for constructing the framework, altars, and sacred furnishings of the Tabernacle, such as the [Ark of the Covenant](/exodus/37-1 "Exodus 37:1 - Construction of the Ark") and the Table of Showbread. The collection of these materials reflects a communal effort, where every individual, from the wealthiest to those with more modest possessions or access to natural resources, contributed what they had, demonstrating a unified commitment to the divine project.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Offer/Offering (Hebrew, _terumah'_ / _qarab'_):** The KJV uses "offer" and "offering." The noun "offering" here is `terumah` (תְּרוּמָה), which specifically denotes a "heave offering" or a "contribution," often lifted up or set apart for sacred purposes. It implies a voluntary, dedicated gift. The verb "did offer" is related to `qarab` (קָרַב), meaning "to draw near" or "to present," emphasizing the act of bringing something into God's presence as an act of worship and devotion. Together, these terms highlight the intentionality and sacred nature of the contributions, not merely as donations, but as acts of worship.
* **Shittim Wood (Hebrew, _shittim'_):** This term (שִׁטִּים) refers to the wood of the acacia tree (_Acacia nilotica_ or _Acacia seyal_), which was prevalent in the Sinai desert. It was highly prized in the ancient Near East for its exceptional durability, density, and resistance to pests and rot, making it an ideal material for construction in harsh desert environments. Its use for the core structural elements and sacred furnishings of the Tabernacle underscored the permanence and resilience intended for God's dwelling place and its holy objects, symbolizing the enduring nature of God's covenant and presence.
* **Service (Hebrew, _abodah'_):** The word `abodah` (עֲבֹדָה) translates to "work," "service," or "ministry." In this context, it refers to the sacred labor and function associated with the Tabernacle. It encompasses not only the construction of the sanctuary but also the ongoing priestly duties and rituals performed within it. The materials were brought for "any work of the service," indicating that they were dedicated entirely to the divine purpose and function of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the sacred utility of every contribution.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Every one that did offer an offering of silver and brass brought the LORD'S offering":** This clause emphasizes the widespread participation and the nature of the contribution. "Every one" signifies universal involvement, not just a select few. The act of "offering" (terumah) implies a freewill, dedicated gift. Silver and brass (bronze) were valuable metals, likely obtained from the spoils of Egypt, indicating that the Israelites were giving from their acquired wealth. The phrase "the LORD'S offering" explicitly states the divine ownership and sacred purpose of these contributions; they were not for human gain but for God's glory and His dwelling among them.
* **"and every man, with whom was found shittim wood for any work of the service, brought [it].":** This second clause continues to highlight broad participation, specifically mentioning shittim wood. The phrase "with whom was found" suggests that this material might have been less universally possessed than silver and brass, perhaps gathered by those with the specific knowledge or opportunity to acquire it in the wilderness. Regardless of how it was acquired, its dedication was for "any work of the service," meaning it was designated for any part of the Tabernacle's construction or its subsequent sacred functions where this durable wood was required. The inclusion of "it" (implied in the KJV translation) underscores that the specific material itself was brought.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 35:24 employs several literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. **Repetition** of the idea of "bringing" and "offering" throughout Exodus 35, and specifically in this verse, emphasizes the people's eager and collective response to the divine command. The phrase "every one" and "every man" utilizes **Synecdoche**, where a part (each individual) stands for the whole (the entire community), underscoring the universal participation in this sacred endeavor. The materials themselves, particularly **shittim wood**, function as **Symbolism**. Its durability and resistance to decay symbolize the enduring nature of God's covenant and the permanence of His presence among His people, as well as the lasting quality required for sacred objects. The entire act of contribution, from diverse materials to the willing hearts of the givers, serves as a powerful **Metonymy** for the people's devotion and their communal commitment to establishing God's sanctuary.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 35:24 profoundly illustrates the theological principle of voluntary and communal giving as an act of worship and obedience. It reveals that the building of God's dwelling place is a shared responsibility, requiring diverse contributions from every member of the community, not just the wealthy or powerful. The dedication of valuable and practical resources to "the LORD'S offering" underscores the idea that all possessions ultimately belong to God and are to be used for His purposes. This willingness to give generously and cheerfully for the advancement of God's kingdom establishes a foundational pattern for all subsequent acts of worship and service, demonstrating that true spiritual engagement is often expressed through tangible sacrifice and active participation in God's work.

* [1 Chronicles 29:9](/1-chronicles/29-9 "1 Chronicles 29:9 - David's Prayer and the People's Joyful Offering")
* [2 Corinthians 9:7](/2-corinthians/9-7 "2 Corinthians 9:7 - God Loves a Cheerful Giver")
* [Ephesians 2:19](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Believers as a Holy Temple")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 35:24 offers a timeless model for contemporary believers regarding our participation in God's work. It challenges us to consider our own resources—whether financial, material, or in terms of our time and talents—and how we are dedicating them to the Lord's service. The emphasis on "every one" and "every man" reminds us that no contribution is too small or insignificant when given with a willing heart. Just as the Israelites brought what they had, whether precious metals or durable wood, we are called to contribute our unique gifts to the spiritual building of God's kingdom and the support of His church. This verse encourages a spirit of generosity, communal responsibility, and joyful participation, recognizing that our offerings are not merely donations but acts of worship that enable God's presence and work to flourish in our midst. It prompts us to reflect on the attitude of our giving: is it coerced, or is it a spontaneous overflow of a heart stirred by God's call?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "silver, brass, or shittim wood" (resources, talents, time) has God entrusted to me that I can offer for His service today?**
* **How does my attitude toward giving reflect the "willing heart" of the Israelites in Exodus 35?**
* **In what ways can I contribute to the "work of the service" within my local church or community, even if my contribution seems small?**
* **How does understanding that my offering is "the LORD'S offering" change my perspective on giving?**

### FAQ

**Why were silver, brass, and shittim wood specifically chosen for the Tabernacle?**

Answer: These materials were chosen for their specific properties and availability, making them ideal for the Tabernacle's construction and furnishings. Silver and brass (bronze) were valuable metals, likely obtained by the Israelites from the Egyptians during the Exodus ([Exodus 12:35-36](/exodus/12-35 "Exodus 12:35-36 - Spoils of Egypt")), symbolizing God's provision and the dedication of acquired wealth to Him. Silver was used for sockets, hooks, and various vessels, while brass was crucial for the altar, laver, and courtyard pillars due to its strength and resistance to corrosion. Shittim wood, from the acacia tree, was abundant in the Sinai wilderness. It was highly valued for its extreme durability, hardness, and resistance to decay and insects, making it perfect for the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the altars, and the framework of the Tabernacle, ensuring the longevity and stability of these sacred objects and structures.

**What does it mean that these were "the LORD'S offering"?**

Answer: The phrase "the LORD'S offering" signifies that these contributions were not merely for human use or benefit, but were specifically dedicated to God and His sacred purposes. It emphasizes divine ownership and the holy nature of the gifts. By designating them as "the LORD'S offering," the Israelites acknowledged that all they possessed ultimately belonged to God, and their act of giving was an act of worship and devotion. This concept reinforces the idea that the Tabernacle was not merely a human construction but a divinely commissioned dwelling place for God among His people, built with materials consecrated to Him. It highlights the sacredness of the entire project and the people's participation in it.

**How does the willingness to contribute in Exodus 35:24 relate to modern Christian giving?**

Answer: The willingness to contribute in Exodus 35:24 provides a foundational principle for modern Christian giving. Just as the Israelites gave freely and generously for the physical Tabernacle, believers today are called to give with a cheerful and willing heart for the spiritual building of God's kingdom and the support of His church ([2 Corinthians 9:7](/2-corinthians/9-7 "2 Corinthians 9:7 - God Loves a Cheerful Giver")). This verse teaches that every contribution, regardless of its size or type (whether financial, material, time, or talent), is valuable when offered with a sincere heart to the Lord. It underscores the communal responsibility of believers to provide the necessary resources for ministry, outreach, and the care of God's people, ensuring that the "work of the service" continues to flourish in the world.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 35:24, with its focus on the materials for God's dwelling place, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle, meticulously constructed from silver, brass, and durable shittim wood, served as the physical embodiment of God's presence among His people, a temporary structure foreshadowing a greater reality. Christ is the true and eternal Tabernacle, the ultimate dwelling place of God with humanity. As [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") declares, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us," literally "tabernacled" among us. The materials brought by the Israelites, though precious and essential for the Old Covenant sanctuary, point to the infinitely more precious and perfect offering of Christ Himself. His body was the true temple, destroyed and raised in three days ([John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection")). Furthermore, the diverse contributions of the community for the physical Tabernacle prefigure the spiritual temple, the Church, built upon the foundation of Christ Jesus, where believers are living stones ([1 Peter 2:5](/1-peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones")). Just as every Israelite contributed to the earthly sanctuary, every believer, by grace through faith in Christ, becomes a part of the spiritual dwelling where God's Spirit resides ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Believers as a Holy Temple")). The "service" for which the shittim wood was brought finds its ultimate purpose in Christ's priestly ministry, who entered the true, heavenly Tabernacle not with the blood of animals, but with His own blood, securing eternal redemption ([Hebrews 9:11-12](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-12 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Thus, the willing offerings of Exodus 35:24 ultimately point to the perfect, once-for-all offering of Christ, who is the substance of all shadows, the true dwelling of God, and the foundation of His eternal kingdom.

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.