Exodus 35:28

Exodus 35:28 lists specific, essential ingredients contributed by the Israelites for the construction and furnishing of the Tabernacle, particularly those required for its sacred rituals. This verse highlights the provision of materials for the lamp, the anointing oil, and the sweet incense, all critical elements in the wilderness worship prescribed by God.

Context

This verse is part of a larger passage (Exodus 35) detailing the freewill offerings brought by the Israelites for the Tabernacle. Following God's detailed instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai, the people responded with remarkable generosity and willingness to contribute the necessary materials. The items mentioned here—spice, oil for light, anointing oil, and sweet incense—were not merely decorative but fundamental for the daily operation and consecration of the Tabernacle and its priesthood. They represent the specialized and holy nature of the worship commanded by God, distinguishing it from common practices.

Key Themes

• Holiness and Consecration: The ingredients listed were designated for sacred purposes only, such as the holy anointing oil used to consecrate priests and Tabernacle articles, and the sacred sweet incense burned before the Lord. This underscores God's demand for purity and distinction in worship.
• Divine Specification and Obedience: The inclusion of these specific items emphasizes that the Tabernacle's construction and its services were not left to human discretion but meticulously detailed by God Himself. The people's provision of these materials demonstrates their obedience to divine command.
• Willingness and Generosity: As part of the freewill offerings (see Exodus 35:21), the Israelites' contribution of these costly and rare items reflects their devotion and eagerness to participate in God's plan for a dwelling place among them.
• Symbolism in Worship: Each element carried profound symbolism: the oil for light represented God's presence and truth (Exodus 27:20), the anointing oil signified consecration and the Holy Spirit, and the sweet incense symbolized the prayers of the saints ascending to God (Revelation 5:8).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses precise terms for these sacred materials:

• "Spice" (Hebrew: besamim): Refers to a variety of aromatic ingredients, often used in perfumes, anointing oils, and incense. These were typically imported and valuable.
• "Oil for the light" (Hebrew: shemen lama'or): Specifically pure beaten olive oil, required for the perpetual lamp (menorah) in the holy place (Exodus 27:20).
• "Anointing oil" (Hebrew: shemen mishchat kodesh): A uniquely formulated, sacred oil, whose precise recipe is given in Exodus 30:23-25, used for consecrating the Tabernacle and its priests. Its use for common purposes was strictly forbidden.
• "Sweet incense" (Hebrew: ketoret samim): This refers to the special blend of aromatic spices for the altar of incense, detailed in Exodus 30:34-35. Like the anointing oil, its composition was divinely specified and not to be replicated for personal use.

Practical Application

Exodus 35:28 reminds us that God desires our best and specific contributions for His work. Just as these materials were essential for the Tabernacle's function, so too are our unique gifts and resources vital for the building up of His spiritual house today. The emphasis on specific, consecrated elements for worship teaches us the importance of intentionality and reverence in our approach to God. Our worship, like the anointing oil and sweet incense, should be set apart, pure, and a pleasing aroma to Him, reflecting our willingness to follow His commands and contribute generously to His kingdom.