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 meticulously details the specific material contributions of silver, brass, and shittim wood brought by the Israelites for the construction of the Tabernacle. This verse highlights the widespread, willing, and diverse participation of the community in providing the essential raw materials for God's sacred dwelling place in the wilderness. It underscores their collective devotion, obedience to the divine directives given through Moses, and the tangible expression of their consecrated wealth and available resources, ensuring that all necessary components were readily at hand for the monumental task of building the sanctuary.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 35:24 is situated within the immediate aftermath of Moses' detailed reiteration of God's commands for the Tabernacle's construction and the subsequent call for voluntary offerings, spanning 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 passages like [Exodus 35:20-29](/exodus/35-20 "Exodus 35:20-29 - The People's Willing Contributions"), serves as the narrative bridge between the divine command to build and the actual commencement of the work. It vividly portrays the people's enthusiastic and immediate response to the general invitation for "everyone whose heart stirred him and everyone whose spirit was willing" to bring offerings, as stated in [Exodus 35:21](/exodus/35-21 "Exodus 35:21 - Willing Hearted Contributions"). The verse specifically details the contribution of metals and wood, demonstrating the tangible outcome of their willing hearts and preceding the divine appointment of skilled craftsmen like Bezalel and Oholiab in [Exodus 35:30-35](/exodus/35-30 "Exodus 35:30-35 - The Appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab"), who would then transform these raw materials into the sacred sanctuary.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for Exodus 35:24 is the Israelite encampment in the Sinai wilderness, shortly after receiving the Law and the intricate blueprints for the Tabernacle at Mount Sinai. This portable sanctuary was not merely a structure but the tangible representation of God's covenantal presence among His people, serving as the central hub for worship, atonement, and divine communication. The materials specified—silver, brass (bronze), and shittim wood—were not arbitrarily chosen. Silver and brass were valuable commodities, likely acquired from the Egyptians during the Exodus, as detailed in [Exodus 12:35-36](/exodus/12-35 "Exodus 12:35-36 - Spoils from Egypt"), thereby representing a divine provision and the dedication of "spoils" for sacred purposes. Shittim wood, derived from the acacia tree, was native to the arid Sinai Peninsula, known for its exceptional durability, hardness, and resistance to decay and insects. These properties made it an ideal and practical choice for the structural 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 communal collection of these diverse materials underscores a unified national effort, where individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their wealth, contributed what they possessed or could readily obtain, demonstrating a profound collective commitment to the divine project.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 35:24 profoundly contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it exemplifies the theme of **Divine Instruction and Human Obedience**, showcasing the Israelites' immediate and willing response to God's detailed commands for the Tabernacle's construction, a direct act of obedience following the giving of the Law. Secondly, it highlights **Communal Participation and Generosity**, emphasizing that the building of God's dwelling was a collective endeavor, requiring contributions from "every one" and "every man," fostering unity and shared responsibility. This generosity is further elaborated in [Exodus 35:29](/exodus/35-29 "Exodus 35:29 - Freewill Offerings"), where the people are described as bringing "a freewill offering unto the LORD." Thirdly, the verse underscores the theme of **God's Dwelling Presence**, as the materials were specifically brought for "the LORD'S offering" and "the work of the service," all dedicated to creating a sanctuary where God would reside among His people, as promised in [Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Command to Build a Sanctuary"). Finally, it subtly points to **Sanctification and Consecration**, as the very act of bringing these materials, especially the durable shittim wood, for sacred use transformed ordinary items into consecrated elements for divine purposes, symbolizing the holiness required for interaction with God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Offering (Hebrew, _tᵉrûwmâh'_):** From the root `rûwm` (H7311), meaning "to be high" or "to raise," this noun (H8641) denotes a "present (as offered up), especially in sacrifice or as tribute." It signifies a "heave offering" or a "contribution" that is lifted up or set apart for sacred purposes. In this context, it emphasizes a voluntary, dedicated gift, underscoring the intentionality and sacred nature of the contributions as acts of worship, not merely donations.
* **Found (Hebrew, _mâtsâʼ'_):** This primitive root (H4672) means "to come forth to, i.e. appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e. find or acquire." It can also figuratively mean "to occur, meet or be present." In Exodus 35:24, "with whom was found" suggests that the shittim wood was not necessarily universally possessed like some other materials, but rather discovered, acquired, or simply present with certain individuals, highlighting the diverse sources and accessibility of the necessary resources.
* **Shittim (Hebrew, _shiṭṭâh'_):** This feminine noun (H7848) refers to the acacia tree (from its "scourging thorns"), specifically the wood of the acacia (_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 selection 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.
* **Work (Hebrew, _mᵉlâʼkâh'_):** From the same root as `mal'ak` (H4397, meaning "messenger"), this noun (H4399) properly denotes "deputyship," i.e., "ministry." More generally, it refers to "employment (never servile) or work (abstractly or concretely)." It also encompasses "business" or "thing (made)." In the context of the Tabernacle, "work of the service" refers to the skilled craftsmanship and labor involved in constructing the sanctuary and its furnishings, emphasizing that these contributions were for the practical, yet sacred, execution of God's design.
* **Service (Hebrew, _ʻăbôdâh'_):** From the verb `ʻâbad` (H5647, "to work, serve"), this noun (H5656) broadly means "work of any kind." In a religious context, it specifically refers to "ministry," "office," or "service." Here, "work of the service" 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 aspect of this sacred labor and function, indicating their complete dedication to the divine purpose and utility of the Tabernacle.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Every one that did offer an offering of silver and brass brought the LORD'S offering":** This clause emphasizes the universal participation and the nature of the contribution. "Every one" signifies widespread involvement across the community, not limited to a select few. The act of "offering" (Hebrew: `tᵉrûwmâh`) implies a freewill, dedicated gift, lifted up to God. Silver (Hebrew: `keçeph`, H3701) and brass (Hebrew: `nᵉchôsheth`, H5178, referring to bronze) were valuable metals, likely obtained from the spoils of Egypt, indicating that the Israelites were giving from their acquired wealth and resources. The crucial phrase "the LORD'S offering" explicitly states the divine ownership and sacred purpose of these contributions; they were not for human gain or common use but consecrated entirely for God's glory and the establishment of 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 the contribution of 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 specific knowledge or opportunity to acquire it in the wilderness. Regardless of its acquisition, 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 implied "it" in the King James Version translation underscores that the specific material itself was brought, completing the act of contribution.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 35:24 employs several literary devices that enhance its meaning and underscore the significance of the communal contributions. The **Repetition** of the verb "brought" (Hebrew: `bôwʼ`, H935) and the concept of "offering" (Hebrew: `tᵉrûwmâh`, H8641) throughout Exodus 35, and specifically within this verse, powerfully emphasizes the people's eager, widespread, and collective response to the divine command. The phrases "Every one" and "every man" utilize **Synecdoche**, where a part (each individual) stands for the whole (the entire Israelite community), underscoring the universal participation and unity in this sacred endeavor. The materials themselves, particularly **shittim wood**, function as potent **Symbolism**. Its inherent durability, hardness, and resistance to decay and insects symbolize the enduring nature of God's covenant, the permanence of His presence among His people, and the lasting quality required for sacred objects dedicated to Him. Furthermore, the entire act of contribution, encompassing diverse materials and the willing hearts of the givers, serves as a powerful **Metonymy** for the people's devotion, their obedience, and their communal commitment to establishing God's sanctuary as the central element of their national identity and worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 35:24 profoundly illustrates the theological principle of voluntary and communal giving as an essential act of worship and obedience to God. It reveals that the building of God's dwelling place is a shared responsibility, requiring diverse contributions from every member of the community, regardless of their status or the type of resource they possess. The dedication of valuable and practical resources to "the LORD'S offering" underscores the foundational biblical truth that all possessions ultimately belong to God, and believers are stewards called to use them for His purposes and glory. 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 redemptive 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 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Believers as a Holy Temple")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 35:24 offers a timeless and profound model for contemporary believers regarding our participation in God's ongoing work in the world. It challenges us to deeply consider our own resources—whether financial, material, or in terms of our time, talents, and spiritual gifts—and honestly assess 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, cheerful, and obedient 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, which is His body on earth. This verse encourages a spirit of radical generosity, communal responsibility, and joyful participation, recognizing that our offerings are not merely donations but sacred acts of worship that enable God's presence and redemptive work to flourish in our midst and impact the world. It prompts us to reflect on the attitude of our giving: is it coerced, grudging, or is it a spontaneous overflow of a heart stirred by God's call and love?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "silver, brass, or shittim wood"—meaning my unique resources, talents, or time—has God entrusted to me that I can offer for His service today?**
* **How does my current attitude toward giving reflect the "willing heart" of the Israelites described in Exodus 35?**
* **In what tangible ways can I contribute to the "work of the service" within my local church or wider community, even if my contribution seems modest?**
* **How does understanding that my offering is ultimately "the LORD'S offering" transform my perspective and motivation for giving?**

### FAQ

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

Answer: These materials were chosen for their specific properties, symbolic significance, and practical 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 of burnt offering, the laver, and the courtyard pillars due to its strength, durability, 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 in the harsh desert environment.

**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 designated and 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, devotion, and obedience. 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 willing participation in it as an act of faith and reverence.

**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 and enduring principle for modern Christian giving. Just as the Israelites gave freely, generously, and cheerfully 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 and significant 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 and that God's presence is made manifest through His people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 35:24, with its profound focus on the diverse and willing contributions for God's dwelling place, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The meticulously constructed Tabernacle, fashioned 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, eternal 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 dwelt among us," literally "tabernacled" or "pitched His tent" among us, bringing God's presence into the world in a way the physical Tabernacle could only hint at. The precious materials brought by the Israelites, though 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, as He prophesied in [John 2:19-21](/john/2-19 "John 2:19-21 - Jesus Predicts His Resurrection"), signifying the end of the need for an earthly, temporary dwelling. Furthermore, the diverse contributions of the community for the physical Tabernacle prefigure the spiritual temple, the Church, which is built upon the foundation of Christ Jesus, where believers are living stones being built into a spiritual house for God's dwelling by the Spirit ([1 Peter 2:5](/1-peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones") and [Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19 "Ephesians 2:19-22 - Believers as a Holy Temple")). Just as every Israelite contributed to the earthly sanctuary, every believer, by grace through faith in Christ, becomes an integral part of this spiritual dwelling where God's Spirit eternally resides. The "work of the service" for which the shittim wood was brought finds its ultimate purpose in Christ's perfect priestly ministry, who entered the true, heavenly Tabernacle not with the blood of animals, but with His own precious blood, securing eternal redemption for all who believe ([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.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 8:12

For if there be first a willing mind, [it is] accepted according to that a man hath, [and] not according to that he hath not.