Exodus 35:32
And to devise curious works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass,
Original Language Analysis
וְלַחְשֹׁ֖ב
And to devise
H2803
וְלַחְשֹׁ֖ב
And to devise
Strong's:
H2803
Word #:
1 of 6
properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou
מַֽחַשָׁבֹ֑ת
curious works
H4284
מַֽחַשָׁבֹ֑ת
curious works
Strong's:
H4284
Word #:
2 of 6
a contrivance, i.e., (concretely) a texture, machine, or (abstractly) intention, plan (whether bad, a plot; or good, advice)
לַֽעֲשֹׂ֛ת
to work
H6213
לַֽעֲשֹׂ֛ת
to work
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
3 of 6
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
בַּזָּהָ֥ב
in gold
H2091
בַּזָּהָ֥ב
in gold
Strong's:
H2091
Word #:
4 of 6
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
Historical Context
This communal outpouring of generosity marked a dramatic reversal from the golden calf incident (ch. 32) where gold was gathered for idolatry. Now the same materials are consecrated for true worship, demonstrating national repentance and renewed covenant commitment.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the transformation from golden calf to willing tabernacle offerings demonstrate genuine repentance and restoration?
- What is the relationship between having a heart 'made willing' and bringing freewill offerings to God?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The summary statement 'the children of Israel brought a willing offering unto the LORD' uses the technical term for freewill offering (נְדָבָה, nedavah)—emphasizing spontaneous generosity flowing from love, not legal obligation. The comprehensive scope—'every man and woman, whose heart made them willing'—stresses that this movement of generosity pervaded the entire community. This willing offering for 'all manner of work' demonstrates understanding that every aspect of tabernacle construction, from grand furnishings to practical necessities, deserves wholehearted support.