Exodus 36:19

Context

Exodus 36:19 is part of the detailed account of the construction of the Tabernacle in the wilderness, fulfilling the instructions given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. Chapters 35 and 36 describe the skilled artisans, led by Bezaleel and Aholiab, diligently carrying out the divine blueprint for this portable sanctuary. This verse specifically details one of the outermost layers of the Tabernacle's complex covering system, designed not only for protection but also with symbolic significance for the dwelling place of God among His people.

Key Themes

• Divine Design and Meticulous Detail: The verse highlights the precision of God's instructions. Every element, from the innermost curtains to the outermost coverings, was specified, emphasizing that God's presence demands reverence and careful adherence to His commands. This meticulous planning underscores the importance of the Tabernacle's construction details as a shadow of heavenly things.
• Protection and Preservation: The coverings served a crucial practical purpose: to shield the sacred contents of the Tabernacle from the harsh desert elements (sun, sand, rain). The outer layers, particularly the "badgers' skins," provided durability and weather resistance, ensuring the sanctuary's integrity during the Israelites' wilderness journey.
• Symbolism of Materials:
  • Rams' Skins Dyed Red: Ram's skins were likely used for their durability. The dyeing in red is highly symbolic, often associated with blood, sacrifice, and atonement in the Old Testament. This layer might subtly point to the necessity of shed blood for covering sin, a theme central to the Tabernacle's sacrificial system (Leviticus 17:11).
  • Badgers' Skins: This outermost layer was functional rather than beautiful, providing rugged protection. It represented the external, perhaps less glamorous, but essential work of safeguarding the holy.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "badgers' skins" translates the Hebrew word tachash (תַּחַשׁ). The exact animal referred to by tachash is debated among scholars. While KJV translates it as "badger," other proposals include dugong (a marine mammal), porpoise, or simply a type of durable, fine leather, possibly dyed. Regardless of the precise animal, the key characteristic conveyed is its ruggedness and suitability for a weatherproof outer covering, contrasting with the more visually appealing inner layers.

Practical Application

This verse, though describing ancient construction, offers several insights for today:

• Value in Hidden Work: Just as the outermost, perhaps less beautiful, layer was essential for the Tabernacle's function, so too are the "hidden" or less visible acts of service, protection, and faithfulness vital in our lives and communities.
• God's Attention to Detail: God cares deeply about every aspect of His work and our obedience. This reminds us to approach our tasks, especially those related to our faith, with diligence and attention to detail, knowing that even seemingly small elements contribute to the whole.
• Protection and Holiness: The coverings provided a barrier, signifying the holiness and separation of God's presence. For believers, this can symbolize the spiritual protection God provides and the need to guard the sacred spaces of our lives and faith from defilement and worldly influences. Our lives are to be a dwelling place for God's Spirit, much like the body is the temple of the Holy Ghost.