Exodus 35:4
And Moses spake unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, saying, This is the thing which the LORD commanded, saying,
Original Language Analysis
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
4 of 14
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
עֲדַ֥ת
unto all the congregation
H5712
עֲדַ֥ת
unto all the congregation
Strong's:
H5712
Word #:
5 of 14
a stated assemblage (specifically, a concourse, or generally, a family or crowd)
בְּנֵֽי
of the children
H1121
בְּנֵֽי
of the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
6 of 14
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל
of Israel
H3478
יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל
of Israel
Strong's:
H3478
Word #:
7 of 14
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
הַדָּבָ֔ר
This is the thing
H1697
הַדָּבָ֔ר
This is the thing
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
10 of 14
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
אֲשֶׁר
H834
אֲשֶׁר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
11 of 14
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
Historical Context
This marked a radical departure from ancient temple construction, which typically relied on forced labor and mandatory taxation. Israel's tabernacle would be built through joyful generosity, reflecting covenant relationship rather than mere religious obligation.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does God choose voluntary offerings rather than mandatory contributions for building His dwelling?
- How does the principle of freewill giving in tabernacle construction inform New Testament teaching on generous, cheerful giving?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Moses transitions from Sabbath law to the freewill offering (תְּרוּמָה, terumah), setting the pattern for all tabernacle construction: willing hearts, not coercion. The phrase 'this is the thing which the LORD commanded' introduces not a demand but an invitation. God's dwelling among His people will be built entirely through voluntary offerings, demonstrating that true worship springs from desire, not duty alone.