Exodus 39:34

KJV

And the covering of rams' skins dyed red, and the covering of badgers' skins, and the vail of the covering,

KJV (with Strong's)

And the covering {H4372} of rams {H352}' skins {H5785} dyed red {H119}, and the covering {H4372} of badgers {H8476}' skins {H5785}, and the vail {H6532} of the covering {H4539},

Complete Jewish Bible

the covering of tanned ram skins, the covering of fine leather and the curtain for the screen;

Berean Standard Bible

the covering of ram skins dyed red, the covering of fine leather, and the veil of the covering;

American Standard Version

and the covering of rams’ skins dyed red, and the covering of sealskins, and the veil of the screen;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 39:34 meticulously records the presentation to Moses of the completed outer coverings and internal divisions of the Tabernacle, specifically mentioning the durable "covering of rams' skins dyed red," the resilient "covering of badgers' skins," and the significant "vail of the covering." This verse is part of the climactic account detailing the final stages of the Tabernacle's construction, underscoring the Israelites' faithful and precise execution of God's divine blueprint for His sacred dwelling place in the wilderness. It highlights the sanctity of the structure, the functional necessity of each component, and the profound symbolic weight carried by every material chosen for the Lord's sanctuary.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 39 stands as a pivotal chapter, marking the culmination of the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's construction given by God to Moses, which began in [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle"). Following the collection of materials and the appointment of skilled artisans like Bezalel and Oholiab in [Exodus 35](/exodus/35 "Exodus 35 - Call for Contributions and Skilled Workers"), chapters [Exodus 36](/exodus/36 "Exodus 36 - Construction Begins") through [Exodus 39](/exodus/39 "Exodus 39 - Construction of the Tabernacle and Priestly Garments") systematically recount the meticulous execution of every divine command. The repeated phrase, "as the LORD commanded Moses," functions as a literary refrain throughout these chapters, emphasizing the unwavering obedience and faithfulness of the craftsmen and the community. Verse 34 specifically lists key components of the Tabernacle's outer layers and internal screens among the completed items brought before Moses for his final inspection and approval. This placement immediately precedes the grand assembly and dedication of the Tabernacle in [Exodus 40](/exodus/40 "Exodus 40 - Erection and Consecration of the Tabernacle"), signifying the successful completion of the construction phase and the readiness of God's dwelling place.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Tabernacle occurred during Israel's forty-year sojourn in the Sinai wilderness, a formative period defined by God's direct presence, miraculous provision, and the establishment of the Mosaic covenant. The Tabernacle was designed to be a portable sanctuary, serving as the central hub for Israelite worship, sacrificial atonement, and divine revelation, demonstrating God's unique desire to "dwell among them" ([Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - God's Dwelling Among Israel")). While other ancient Near Eastern cultures had temples, Israel's Tabernacle was distinct in its divine origin and its emphasis on a holy God dwelling amidst a sinful people, mediated through precise rituals and structures. The materials, such as rams' skins and durable leather (often translated "badgers' skins"), were practical choices for a nomadic existence, providing necessary protection against the harsh desert climate. The meticulous detail in the Tabernacle's design, from its most sacred inner chamber to its outermost coverings, underscored the absolute holiness of God and the necessity of approaching Him on His terms, setting Israel apart from surrounding pagan practices.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, embedded within the broader narrative of the Tabernacle's construction, contributes to several overarching themes. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Meticulous Design**, demonstrating that every aspect of God's dwelling was precisely ordained by Him, leaving no room for human improvisation. Secondly, it underscores **Human Obedience and Faithfulness**, as the Israelites, led by Bezalel and Oholiab, diligently executed every command "as the LORD commanded Moses" ([Exodus 39:32](/exodus/39-32 "Exodus 39:32 - Completion of the Tabernacle")). Thirdly, the various coverings and veils speak to the theme of **Holiness and Separation**, emphasizing the sacredness of God's presence and the necessary boundaries that regulated access to Him. Finally, the practical yet symbolic nature of the materials points to the theme of **God's Provision and Protection** for His people, even in the harsh wilderness, ensuring His dwelling place was both functional and spiritually significant for their journey.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **covering (Hebrew, _mikçeh'_):** This term (H4372) refers generally to a "covering" or "weatherboarding." In the context of the Tabernacle, it denotes the protective layers that formed the roof and outer walls, shielding the sacred contents from the elements. This word emphasizes the functional aspect of protection and enclosure.
* **rams (Hebrew, _ʼayil'_):** This word (H352) primarily means "strength" and specifically refers to a "ram." Rams were significant animals in Israelite culture, often used for sacrifice. Their skins, when prepared, provided a durable material suitable for the Tabernacle's construction, further imbued with symbolic meaning due to the animal's sacrificial role.
* **dyed red (Hebrew, _ʼâdam'_):** This verb (H119) means "to show blood (in the face), i.e., flush or turn rosy; be (dyed, made) red (ruddy)." The application of this dye to the ram skins imparted a distinct red color, which in biblical symbolism is often associated with blood, life, and atonement, pointing to the sacrificial system central to the Tabernacle's purpose.
* **badgers (Hebrew, _tachash'_):** This word (H8476) refers to a "clean animal with fur, probably a species of antelope," or a durable leather derived from such an animal. While its exact identification is debated (some suggest dugong or porpoise, others a land animal like a badger or antelope), its key characteristic for the Tabernacle was its durability and water-resistant qualities, making it ideal for the outermost protective layer.
* **vail (Hebrew, _pôreketh'_):** This term (H6532) specifically denotes a "separatrix" or "sacred screen." In the Tabernacle, the _pôreketh_ was the thick, ornate curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, regulating access to the Ark of the Covenant and God's immediate presence. It signified the sacred boundary between humanity and the divine.
* **covering (Hebrew, _mâçâk'_):** This word (H4539) refers to a "cover, i.e., veil" or "curtain/hanging." In the context of the Tabernacle, it specifically refers to the screen or curtain that served as the entrance to the Tabernacle tent itself, distinguishing it from the inner _pôreketh_. Both the _pôreketh_ and the _mâçâk_ regulated access and defined sacred space.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the covering of rams' skins dyed red":** This clause describes the second layer of the Tabernacle's four-layered roof and wall system, situated above the fine linen and goat hair coverings. The use of ram skins, dyed a distinctive red, provided not only a durable and protective material but also carried profound symbolic weight, subtly pointing to the necessity of shed blood and atonement, which would be central to the sacrificial rituals performed within the Tabernacle.
* **"and the covering of badgers' skins":** This refers to the outermost and most robust layer of the Tabernacle's coverings. Its primary function was highly practical: to provide superior protection against the harsh elements of the wilderness—intense sun, driving rain, and abrasive sand. The material, likely a durable and water-resistant leather, ensured the preservation and integrity of the sacred structure and its precious contents during Israel's nomadic journey.
* **"and the vail of the covering":** This phrase, as translated in the KJV, refers to two distinct but equally significant internal divisions of the Tabernacle. The "vail" (Hebrew: _pôreketh_) specifically denotes the thick, ornate curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant resided. This veil served as a sacred barrier, restricting access to God's immediate presence. The "covering" (Hebrew: _mâçâk_) refers to the screen or curtain that formed the entrance to the Tabernacle tent itself, regulating who could enter the Holy Place. Their inclusion here signifies the completion of both the external protection and the crucial internal sacred boundaries that defined the Tabernacle's holy spaces.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 39:34 effectively employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and emphasize the meticulousness of the Tabernacle's construction. The verse primarily uses **Merism** by listing two distinct types of outer coverings ("rams' skins dyed red" and "badgers' skins") alongside the "vail of the covering" (which, as analyzed, encompasses both the inner veil and the entrance screen). This technique, where specific parts are enumerated to represent a comprehensive whole, highlights the completeness and thoroughness of the Tabernacle's construction, from its outermost protective layers to its innermost sacred divisions. The repeated grammatical structure, "and the covering of," functions as a subtle form of **Anaphora**, reinforcing the theme of meticulous assembly and the sequential presentation of each finished component. Furthermore, the detailed description contributes significantly to the overall **Symbolism** inherent in the Tabernacle's design. Each material, color, and layer was not merely functional but imbued with deeper theological meaning, pointing to God's holiness, the necessity of atonement, and the regulated access to His divine presence. The very act of listing these items, after chapters of divine instruction and diligent craftsmanship, serves as a powerful literary **Culmination**, marking the successful completion of a monumental phase in Israel's journey towards establishing a dwelling place for God among them.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 39:34, by detailing the Tabernacle's coverings and internal divisions, speaks profoundly to enduring theological themes of divine order, holiness, and protection. The meticulous adherence to God's precise blueprint underscores His sovereignty and the paramount importance of obedience in worship. The layers of coverings, from the durable outer layer to the symbolically rich inner ones, illustrate God's provision for His dwelling place and, by extension, for His people. They signify the sacredness of God's presence and the necessary boundaries for humanity to approach Him, reflecting the truth that a holy God cannot dwell carelessly among an unholy people. This Old Testament truth foreshadows the New Testament understanding of God's dwelling among His people, not in a physical structure, but spiritually within the community of believers and individual hearts, yet still requiring holiness, reverence, and a divinely provided means of access.

* [Exodus 26:1-37](/exodus/26 "Exodus 26 - Detailed Instructions for the Tabernacle Structure")
* [Hebrews 9:1-10](/hebrews/9-1 "Hebrews 9:1-10 - The Earthly Sanctuary and Its Limitations")
* [1 Corinthians 3:16-17](/1_corinthians/3-16 "1 Corinthians 3:16-17 - You Are God's Temple")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed description of the Tabernacle's coverings in Exodus 39:34, though seemingly focused on physical construction, offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is a God of order, precision, and intentionality, caring deeply about every detail of His dwelling and our worship. Just as the Tabernacle was meticulously constructed to be a holy space, protected and set apart for God's presence, so too are believers called to live lives of intentional holiness, recognizing that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple of the Holy Spirit")). The layers of protection on the Tabernacle can prompt us to consider how we guard our spiritual lives from the "elements" of the world—temptation, sin, and destructive influences. Our faithfulness in seemingly small matters, like the precise construction details, reflects our reverence for God and our commitment to His will. This verse encourages us to pursue a life that honors God in every aspect, recognizing that our lives, like the Tabernacle, are meant to be a dwelling place for His presence, protected and consecrated for His glory, always mindful of the boundaries and provisions He has established for our spiritual well-being.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's meticulous attention to detail in the Tabernacle's construction challenge my own approach to obedience and faithfulness in seemingly small matters of my daily life and spiritual disciplines?**
* **In what ways can I, as a "temple of the Holy Spirit," ensure my life is "covered" and protected from spiritual and worldly elements that seek to defile or diminish God's presence within me?**
* **What "veils" or barriers in my life might be preventing me from experiencing deeper intimacy with God, and how can I seek His grace to draw closer to Him through the access provided by Christ?**

### FAQ

**What was the purpose of the different coverings on the Tabernacle?**

Answer: The Tabernacle had multiple layers of coverings, each serving distinct purposes. The outermost layer, made of "badgers' skins" (or durable leather), provided robust protection against the harsh desert elements such as sun, rain, and sand, ensuring the physical integrity of the sacred structure. Beneath this was the "covering of rams' skins dyed red," which likely offered additional weather protection while also carrying profound symbolic significance related to sacrifice and atonement. Further inside were coverings of goat hair and fine linen, contributing to the structure's overall form, beauty, and internal sanctity. Together, these layers protected the sacred space and its contents, while also visually and symbolically representing the holiness of God and the necessary mediation for humanity to approach Him.

**What is the significance of the "rams' skins dyed red" in the Tabernacle's design?**

Answer: The "rams' skins dyed red" served as a protective layer for the Tabernacle, but its significance extends beyond mere functionality. The ram was a common animal used for sacrifice in the Old Testament, and the color red is frequently associated with blood, life, and atonement throughout Scripture. Therefore, this specific material and color subtly yet powerfully pointed to the sacrificial system that would operate within the Tabernacle, foreshadowing the shedding of blood necessary for the forgiveness of sins and for humanity to be reconciled with a holy God. It was a constant visual reminder of the cost of sin and God's provision for redemption through sacrifice.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 39:34, with its detailed description of the Tabernacle's coverings and internal divisions, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle, in its entirety, was a profound shadow of the true dwelling place of God and the means by which humanity could approach Him. The "covering of rams' skins dyed red" powerfully foreshadows the atoning sacrifice of Jesus, the true [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). His shed blood provides the ultimate and perfect covering for our sins, granting us access to God's holy presence. The durable "badgers' skins" that protected the Tabernacle from the harsh elements speak to Christ's perfect righteousness, unwavering strength, and divine protection, which shield believers from the spiritual storms of sin, judgment, and the world's destructive forces. Most profoundly, the "vail of the covering"—referring to both the inner veil separating the Holy of Holies and the entrance screen—symbolized the profound separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. At Christ's crucifixion, the [temple veil was torn in two from top to bottom](/matthew/27-51 "Matthew 27:51 - The Tearing of the Temple Veil"), signifying that through His body, broken on the cross, the way into the Most Holy Place, into intimate communion with God, was now opened for all who believe ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Confidence to Enter the Most Holy Place")). Jesus Himself is the new and living way, the perfect Tabernacle ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), in whom God dwells fully and through whom we are perfectly covered, protected, and granted direct, unhindered access to the Father.

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.