Exodus 36 – Construction of the Tabernacle
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Skilled Workers Called: Bezalel, Aholiab, and other wise-hearted men were stirred by God’s Spirit to carry out the work of the tabernacle.
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Offerings Too Plentiful: The people of Israel brought so many freewill offerings for the work that Moses had to command them to stop bringing more.
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Curtains and Coverings: The chapter details the making of the ten curtains of fine linen, blue, purple, and scarlet, with cherubim worked into them. Goat’s hair curtains, rams’ skins dyed red, and badgers’ skins were made for coverings.
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Boards and Bars: Boards of acacia wood were made for the walls, with sockets of silver and bars overlaid with gold to hold them together.
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Veil and Screen: The veil separating the Holy of Holies was made, as well as the screen for the entrance of the tent.
Exodus 37 – The Holy Furnishings
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Ark of the Covenant: Bezalel made the ark from acacia wood overlaid with pure gold, with four golden rings and staves for carrying. The mercy seat of pure gold was placed on top, with two cherubim facing each other.
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Table of Showbread: Constructed from acacia wood, overlaid with pure gold, with rings and staves for carrying. Dishes, spoons, bowls, and covers were made of gold.
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Candlestick (Menorah): Beaten work of pure gold, with six branches, almond-shaped bowls, knobs, and flowers, all one piece with the shaft. Seven lamps and utensils were also made of gold.
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Altar of Incense: Made from acacia wood, overlaid with gold, with four horns and a crown around it. Staves and vessels of gold were fashioned for use.
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Anointing Oil & Incense: Though described earlier, here the vessels tied to their use are connected.
? In these chapters, the emphasis is on obedience, skill, and detail. The people gave generously, the workers followed God’s pattern exactly, and the furnishings reflected holiness and beauty set apart for God.
