Exodus 26:14

And thou shalt make a covering for the tent [of] rams' skins dyed red, and a covering above [of] badgers' skins.

And thou shalt make {H6213} a covering {H4372} for the tent {H168} of rams {H352}' skins {H5785} dyed red {H119}, and a covering {H4372} above {H4605} of badgers {H8476}' skins {H5785}.

"You are to make a covering for the tent of tanned ram skins and an outer covering of fine leather.

Also make a covering for the tent out of ram skins dyed red, and over that a covering of fine leather.

And thou shalt make a covering for the tent of ramsโ€™ skins dyed red, and a covering of sealskins above.

Commentary

Exodus 26:14 details specific instructions given by God to Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle in the wilderness. This verse focuses on the outermost layers of covering for the sacred tent, designed to protect the holy structure and its contents from the harsh desert elements.

Context of Exodus 26:14

This verse is part of an extensive series of divine blueprints for the Tabernacle, found in Exodus chapters 25-31 and 35-40. The Tabernacle was a portable sanctuary, a physical representation of God's presence among the Israelites during their forty-year wilderness journey. God commanded, "Let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them." Every detail, from the inner furnishings to the outer coverings, was divinely specified, emphasizing the holiness and meticulousness required for approaching God.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Design and Precision: The meticulous instructions for the Tabernacle, including these specific coverings, underscore God's attention to detail and the importance of obedience in worship and service. Every element had a purpose in the overall divine plan.
  • Protection and Preservation: The rams' skins and "badgers' skins" formed the durable, weather-resistant outer layers. They served as a crucial shield, protecting the more delicate and symbolic inner coverings and the sacred items within from the intense sun, wind, and occasional rain of the desert.
  • Holiness and Separation: While the inner layers of the Tabernacle were made of fine linen with intricate cherubim, symbolizing the beauty and glory of God's immediate presence, these outer coverings were practical and less ornate. This contrast highlights that the sacredness of God's dwelling was not always outwardly visible or glamorous, but profoundly real and protected.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "badgers' skins" translates the Hebrew word tachash (ืชึผึทื—ึทืฉื). The precise identification of this animal or material has been a subject of scholarly debate. While the KJV renders it "badgers," many modern translations and scholars suggest it refers to a durable, waterproof hide from an aquatic animal, such as a dugong or porpoise (sea cow), which were found in the Red Sea region. Another theory proposes it refers to a specific type of dyed leather, possibly blue or purple, or even a particular color rather than an animal. Regardless of the exact creature, the consensus is that tachash skins provided a tough, resilient, and water-repellent layer, making them ideal for the outermost protective covering of the Tabernacle.

Practical Application

Exodus 26:14 reminds us of God's thoroughness and His commitment to protecting His sacred space and, by extension, His people. Just as the Tabernacle was carefully covered, believers today are called to protect the sacredness of their spiritual lives and communities. This verse also subtly points to the concept of a covering, which finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who provides a perfect spiritual covering and a superior sanctuary for all who believe. The Tabernacle, though outwardly plain in its final layer, contained immense glory within, much like the humble appearance of Christ veiled the fullness of God's glory when He "tabernacled" among us.

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Cross-References

  • Exodus 36:19 (5 votes)

    And he made a covering for the tent [of] rams' skins dyed red, and a covering [of] badgers' skins above [that].

  • Exodus 25:5 (3 votes)

    And rams' skins dyed red, and badgers' skins, and shittim wood,

  • Psalms 121:4 (2 votes)

    Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.

  • Psalms 121:5 (2 votes)

    The LORD [is] thy keeper: the LORD [is] thy shade upon thy right hand.

  • Isaiah 4:6 (2 votes)

    And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the daytime from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.

  • Exodus 39:34 (2 votes)

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

  • Numbers 4:10 (2 votes)

    And they shall put it and all the vessels thereof within a covering of badgers' skins, and shall put [it] upon a bar.