Exodus 35:35

KJV

Them hath he filled with wisdom of heart, to work all manner of work, of the engraver, and of the cunning workman, and of the embroiderer, in blue, and in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen, and of the weaver, [even] of them that do any work, and of those that devise cunning work.

KJV (with Strong's)

Them hath he filled {H4390} with wisdom {H2451} of heart {H3820}, to work {H6213} all manner of work {H4399}, of the engraver {H2796}, and of the cunning workman {H2803}, and of the embroiderer {H7551}, in blue {H8504}, and in purple {H713}, in scarlet {H8144}{H8438}, and in fine linen {H8336}, and of the weaver {H707}, even of them that do {H6213} any {H3605} work {H4399}, and of those that devise {H2803} cunning work {H4284}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He has filled them with the skill needed for every kind of work, whether done by an artisan, a designer, an embroiderer using blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and fine linen, or a weaver - they have the skill for every kind of work and design.

Berean Standard Bible

He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and as weavers—as artistic designers of every kind of craft.

American Standard Version

Them hath he filled with wisdom of heart, to work all manner of workmanship, of the engraver, and of the skilful workman, and of the embroiderer, in blue, and in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen, and of the weaver, even of them that do any workmanship, and of those that devise skilful works.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 35:35 powerfully articulates God's divine empowerment of the artisans, particularly Bezalel and Aholiab, along with all those contributing their skills to the construction of the Tabernacle. This verse emphasizes that their comprehensive array of abilities—ranging from intricate engraving and ingenious design to detailed embroidery in specific colors and fine linen, and expert weaving—were not merely inherent talents but a supernatural endowment, a "wisdom of heart," directly from God. It profoundly underscores that every form of craftsmanship, even the most complex and artistic, can be consecrated and divinely utilized for sacred purposes, enabling the Israelites to faithfully execute the detailed blueprint for God's dwelling place among them.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 35:35 serves as the concluding and summarizing statement in a crucial section (Exodus 35:30-35) that explicitly details the divine calling and equipping of Bezalel and Aholiab, alongside other skilled individuals, for the monumental task of constructing the Tabernacle and its intricate furnishings. This passage immediately follows Moses' detailed instructions to the entire congregation regarding the freewill offerings for the Tabernacle (Exodus 35:4-29) and precedes the actual commencement of the work (Exodus 36:1ff). The verse reiterates and expands upon the initial divine commissioning found in [Exodus 31:1-6](/exodus/31-1-6 "Exodus 31:1-6 - God Calls Bezalel and Aholiab"), where God first named Bezalel and Aholiab, stating He had filled them with "the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship." Therefore, [Exodus 35:35](/exodus/35-35 "Exodus 35:35 - Divine Gifting of Artisans") functions as a powerful affirmation that the abilities of these artisans were not merely inherent human talent, but a supernatural endowment from the Almighty, ensuring the sacred project would be executed precisely according to divine specifications.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern cultures, skilled craftsmanship was highly valued, often associated with royal or temple projects, but the concept of a deity directly imparting such comprehensive practical "wisdom of heart" was unique to Israel's understanding of Yahweh. Unlike other cultures where artisans might be seen as possessing innate skill or learning through apprenticeship, the biblical narrative emphasizes a direct divine infusion of ability for a specific sacred purpose. The Tabernacle itself was a mobile sanctuary, a tangible representation of God's presence among His people during their wilderness journey, and its construction required an unprecedented level of precision, artistry, and material handling. The enumeration of specific crafts—engraving, weaving, embroidering with specific dyes (blue, purple, scarlet), and working with fine linen—reflects the sophisticated artistic and technical demands of the Tabernacle's design, which was meticulously revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai (as detailed in [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - 31 - Tabernacle Instructions")). This divine gifting ensured that the Tabernacle, a central element of Israel's worship and identity, would be built to the highest possible standard, reflecting the glory and holiness of the God it housed.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Primarily, it highlights the theme of **Divine Provision and Empowerment**, demonstrating that God not only gives commands but also supernaturally enables His people to fulfill them. It underscores the **Sacredness of Craftsmanship and Labor**, elevating human skill when consecrated to God's purposes, showing that artistic and technical excellence can be acts of worship. Furthermore, it reinforces the theme of **God's Dwelling Among His People**, as the Tabernacle was the physical manifestation of His presence, requiring divinely endowed skill for its construction. The detailed enumeration of crafts also speaks to the **Meticulous Nature of God's Design**, emphasizing that every aspect of the Tabernacle, down to the finest detail, was divinely ordained and required specific, God-given abilities to bring to fruition, echoing the precision seen in the creation account in [Genesis 1](/genesis/1 "Genesis 1 - The Creation Account").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wisdom (Hebrew, _chokmâh'_ H2451):** Derived from the root meaning "to be wise," _chokmâh_ here refers not merely to intellectual knowledge but to practical skill, ingenuity, and the ability to execute complex tasks with proficiency. In this context, it signifies a divinely imparted aptitude for craftsmanship, design, and execution, enabling the artisans to translate the divine blueprints into tangible reality.
* **Heart (Hebrew, _lêb'_ H3820):** In Hebrew anthropology, the "heart" (_lêb_) is the comprehensive seat of intellect, will, emotion, and practical skill. Thus, "wisdom of heart" signifies a holistic and profound divine enabling, encompassing not just theoretical understanding but also the practical intelligence, creativity, and inner capacity to perform intricate work.
* **Devise (Hebrew, _châshab'_ H2803):** This primitive root means "to plait or interpenetrate," expanding to "to weave" or "to fabricate." Figuratively, it means "to plot or contrive," and from the mental effort, "to think, regard, value, compute." In this verse, it refers to the intellectual and creative process of conceptualizing, planning, and inventing intricate designs, indicating a level of expertise beyond mere execution.
* **Cunning work (Hebrew, _machăshâbâh'_ H4284):** This noun, derived from the same root as _châshab_, refers to a "contrivance," specifically a "texture, machine," or abstractly, an "intention" or "plan." Here, it emphasizes intricate, artistic, or ingenious work that requires forethought and creative problem-solving, underscoring that the divine gifting extended to the intellectual and creative process of innovation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Them hath he filled with wisdom of heart":** This opening clause immediately establishes the divine source and supernatural nature of the artisans' abilities. The verb "filled" (_mâlê'_) suggests a complete and abundant endowment, while "wisdom of heart" denotes a comprehensive practical and intellectual skill set directly imparted by God, enabling them to comprehend and execute the divine plans.
* **"to work all manner of work":** This phrase emphasizes the extensive scope and versatility of the divine gifting. It indicates that the artisans were equipped for every conceivable task required for the Tabernacle's construction, from the most basic to the most complex, ensuring no aspect of the divine blueprint would be beyond their capacity.
* **"of the engraver, and of the cunning workman, and of the embroiderer, in blue, and in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen, and of the weaver":** This detailed enumeration specifies the diverse and highly specialized crafts involved. "Engraver" (_chârâsh_) refers to one who works with metal or stone. "Cunning workman" (_châshab_) denotes a master designer or artisan. "Embroiderer" (_râqam_) and "weaver" (_ʼârag_) indicate expertise in textile arts, with specific mention of the precious dyes (blue, purple, scarlet) and high-quality "fine linen" (_shêsh_), which were central to the Tabernacle's aesthetic and symbolic richness. This list highlights the precision and beauty required for God's dwelling.
* **"[even] of them that do any work, and of those that devise cunning work":** This concluding phrase acts as a comprehensive summary, encompassing both the execution of any given task and the creative design process behind it. It reiterates that the divine endowment covered both the practical skills needed for labor and the intellectual ingenuity required for innovative and intricate craftsmanship, ensuring that all aspects of the Tabernacle's construction, from conception to completion, were divinely enabled.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Enumeration** to meticulously list the various crafts and skills divinely imparted, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of God's gifting for the Tabernacle's construction. This detailed list—engraver, cunning workman, embroiderer, weaver, along with the specific colors and materials—serves to highlight the intricate and multifaceted requirements of the sacred project, demonstrating that no detail was too small for divine attention. The repetition of the concept of "work" and "cunning work" at the beginning and end of the enumeration creates a sense of **Inclusivity** and **Emphasis**, underscoring that every aspect of the creative and manual labor was covered by God's endowment. Furthermore, the phrase "wisdom of heart" functions as a powerful **Metonymy**, where "heart" represents the entirety of one's inner being, including intellect, will, and practical skill, thereby signifying a holistic and profound divine enabling rather than mere intellectual knowledge. This highlights the supernatural source and sacred purpose of these otherwise earthly talents.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 35:35 profoundly illustrates the theological principle of divine gifting for sacred service. It reveals that God is not only the architect of salvation but also the ultimate source of all human skill, creativity, and wisdom, especially when those abilities are consecrated for His purposes. The "wisdom of heart" bestowed upon Bezalel and Aholiab demonstrates that practical and artistic excellence are not antithetical to spirituality but can be direct manifestations of God's Spirit at work within individuals. This verse establishes a foundational truth: God equips those He calls, providing the necessary abilities—intellectual, artistic, and practical—to accomplish His will. It elevates the dignity of craftsmanship and labor, showing that even seemingly mundane tasks, when performed with divinely imparted skill and for God's glory, become acts of worship and instruments for building His kingdom.

* [Exodus 31:3](/exodus/31-3 "Exodus 31:3 - God Fills Bezalel with the Spirit")
* [1 Corinthians 12:4-11](/1_corinthians/12-4-11 "1 Corinthians 12:4-11 - Diversity of Spiritual Gifts")
* [Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - Created for Good Works")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 35:35 offers timeless encouragement and profound practical application for believers today. It reminds us that our talents, whether artistic, intellectual, administrative, or manual, are not accidental but are divinely bestowed gifts intended for God's glory and the building up of His people. Just as God supernaturally equipped the Tabernacle builders for a specific, sacred project, He continues to empower His followers with diverse abilities for service within the church and in the world. This verse challenges us to identify our own "wisdom of heart"—our unique skills and passions—and to consecrate them fully to God. It elevates all legitimate work, demonstrating that whether one is a skilled artisan, a teacher, a caregiver, a business professional, or engaged in any vocation, our abilities can be sanctified. The quality, integrity, and purpose of our work can reflect God's excellence and contribute to His kingdom, transforming our daily tasks into acts of worship and stewardship. We are called to develop these gifts, not for personal gain or recognition alone, but primarily to serve God's purposes and benefit others, just as the Tabernacle was built for God's dwelling among His people and for their spiritual benefit.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "wisdom of heart" or unique skills do I believe God has given me?**
* **How am I currently using my talents for God's glory and the benefit of others, both within and outside the church?**
* **In what ways can I more intentionally consecrate my daily work or professional skills to God, viewing them as acts of worship?**
* **Are there any untapped gifts or areas of potential development that I should explore in order to serve God more effectively?**

### FAQ
**Does "wisdom of heart" refer only to artistic skills?**

Answer: While Exodus 35:35 specifically lists artistic and craftsmanship skills related to the Tabernacle, the Hebrew concept of "wisdom of heart" (_ḥokmat lev_) is broader. It encompasses practical intelligence, ingenuity, and the ability to execute complex tasks with skill and precision, extending beyond purely artistic endeavors. In biblical thought, "wisdom" (_ḥokmah_) often refers to practical skill and discernment in various areas of life, not just intellectual knowledge. For instance, [Proverbs](/proverbs "The Book of Proverbs - Wisdom Literature") is full of practical wisdom for living. Thus, while the immediate context is craftsmanship, the principle of divine gifting for practical abilities applies to a wide range of skills and vocations.

**How does this verse relate to "spiritual gifts" in the New Testament?**

Answer: Exodus 35:35 provides an Old Testament precedent for the New Testament concept of spiritual gifts. Just as God supernaturally equipped individuals for the specific work of building the Tabernacle, the Holy Spirit supernaturally equips believers in the New Covenant era for the work of building up the church and ministering to the world. Passages like [1 Corinthians 12](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - Spiritual Gifts") and [Romans 12](/romans/12 "Romans 12 - Gifts and Service") describe diverse spiritual gifts (e.g., teaching, serving, administration, prophecy) that are divinely empowered for the common good. The "wisdom of heart" in Exodus 35:35 demonstrates God's consistent pattern of enabling His people with the necessary abilities to fulfill His purposes across different dispensations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 35:35, with its emphasis on divinely imparted wisdom and skill for the construction of God's dwelling place, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle, meticulously crafted by these gifted artisans, was a shadow and a type of God's presence among His people, a temporary earthly sanctuary. Christ, however, is the true and eternal Tabernacle, the very embodiment of God dwelling with humanity, as declared in [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Incarnation of the Word"), where "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us." Just as the Spirit of God filled Bezalel and Aholiab with wisdom for a physical structure, the fullness of God's Spirit dwelt in Christ without measure ([John 3:34](/john/3-34 "John 3:34 - Spirit Without Measure")), enabling Him to perfectly accomplish the ultimate work of redemption. He is the master craftsman, not of wood and metal, but of a new creation, building His church—the spiritual temple composed of living stones ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones")), a dwelling place for God by the Spirit ([Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21-22 "Ephesians 2:21-22 - Christ as the Cornerstone")). The "wisdom of heart" given to the Old Testament artisans foreshadows the perfect wisdom and divine empowerment present in Christ, who not only fulfills the sacrificial system the Tabernacle represented but also inaugurates the era where God's presence is no longer confined to a tent or temple, but indwells His people through the Holy Spirit, making every believer a participant in His ongoing work through their Spirit-given gifts ([1 Corinthians 12:7](/1_corinthians/12-7 "1 Corinthians 12:7 - Manifestation of the Spirit for the Common Good")).

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 35:31

And he hath filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship;

1 Kings 7:14

He [was] a widow's son of the tribe of Naphtali, and his father [was] a man of Tyre, a worker in brass: and he was filled with wisdom, and understanding, and cunning to work all works in brass. And he came to king Solomon, and wrought all his work.

Isaiah 28:26

For his God doth instruct him to discretion, [and] doth teach him.

Exodus 31:3

And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,

2 Timothy 2:15

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

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;

1 Timothy 3:15

But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.