Exodus 38:25

And the silver of them that were numbered of the congregation [was] an hundred talents, and a thousand seven hundred and threescore and fifteen shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary:

And the silver {H3701} of them that were numbered {H6485} of the congregation {H5712} was an hundred {H3967} talents {H3603}, and a thousand {H505} seven {H7651} hundred {H3967} and threescore and fifteen {H7657}{H2568} shekels {H8255}, after the shekel {H8255} of the sanctuary {H6944}:

The silver given by the community weighed 100 talents 1,775 shekels [6,650 pounds], using the sanctuary shekel.

The silver from those numbered among the congregation totaled 100 talents and 1,775 shekels, according to the sanctuary shekel—

And the silver of them that were numbered of the congregation was a hundred talents, and a thousand seven hundred and threescore and fifteen shekels, after the shekel of the sanctuary:

Commentary

Context of Exodus 38:25

Exodus 38:25 is part of a detailed accounting section (Exodus 38:21-31) that meticulously itemizes the materials used in the construction of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary where God's presence would dwell among the Israelites in the wilderness. This specific verse focuses on the total amount of silver collected from the congregation. This silver was primarily gathered through a specific census requirement where every male aged twenty years and upward contributed a half-shekel of silver as an atonement offering for their souls (as commanded in Exodus 30:13-16). The precision of the measurements highlights the divine emphasis on accuracy and accountability in sacred service and offerings.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Provision and Generosity: The vast amount of silver collected demonstrates the Israelites' obedience and willingness to contribute generously to the building of God's dwelling place. It reflects their collective commitment to the covenant.
  • Precision and Accountability: The exact figures—one hundred talents and 1,775 shekels—underscore the meticulous record-keeping commanded by God and executed by Moses and the craftsmen. This level of detail emphasizes the importance of integrity and accuracy in handling sacred resources.
  • Foundation and Support: As revealed in Exodus 38:27, this silver was primarily used for casting the sockets (bases) for the boards of the Tabernacle and for the pillars of the veil. This signifies that the collective contributions of the people formed the very foundation and support structure of God's dwelling among them.
  • Community Participation: The contribution of the half-shekel was universal for all numbered men, ensuring that every individual had a part in building the Tabernacle. This fostered a sense of collective ownership and responsibility for their communal worship.

Linguistic Insights

The verse mentions two specific units of weight for silver:

  • Talent (kikkar): A talent was a very large unit of weight, roughly equivalent to 75 pounds (or about 34 kilograms). The "hundred talents" represents a substantial quantity of silver, demonstrating the wealth invested in the Tabernacle.
  • Shekel (sheqel): A shekel was a smaller, more common unit of weight, approximately 0.4 ounces (or about 11.5 grams). The "shekel of the sanctuary" refers to a standardized, official weight used for sacred purposes, ensuring consistency and honesty in offerings and measurements. This standard prevented fraud and ensured that all contributions were measured accurately according to God's standard.

Practical Application

Exodus 38:25 offers several enduring lessons for believers today:

  • Integrity in Stewardship: Just as God required precise accounting for the Tabernacle materials, He values integrity and transparency in how we manage resources, whether personal finances, church funds, or time and talents.
  • Every Contribution Matters: The half-shekel contribution, while small individually, collectively formed the foundational silver for the Tabernacle. This reminds us that every contribution, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is vital when offered in obedience and used for God's purposes. This concept is mirrored in passages about the principle of cheerful giving.
  • Building God's Kingdom: The Israelites' unified effort built a physical dwelling for God. Today, believers are called to participate in building God's spiritual kingdom, which often involves collective efforts, shared resources, and diverse gifts working together. Our contributions, whether financial, spiritual, or practical, help support the "structure" of God's work in the world.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Exodus 30:12

    When thou takest the sum of the children of Israel after their number, then shall they give every man a ransom for his soul unto the LORD, when thou numberest them; that there be no plague among them, when [thou] numberest them.
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