Exodus 35:24
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 35:24
24 Every one that did offer an offering of silver and brass brought the LORD'S offering: and every man, with whom was found shittim wood for any work of the service, brought it.
Chapter Context
Exodus 35 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, prayer, salvation. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 35:24
24 Every one that did offer an offering of silver and brass brought the LORD'S offering: and every man, with whom was found shittim wood for any work of the service, brought it.
Analysis
Both men and women ('every man and woman') participate equally in bringing offerings, demolishing any notion that tabernacle construction was masculine domain alone. The Hebrew phrase 'willing hearted' (נְדִיב לֵב, nadiv lev) applies to all, emphasizing that spiritual devotion transcends gender. This inclusivity reflects the New Testament truth that in Christ there is neither male nor female (Galatians 3:28), and all believers are priests (1 Peter 2:9) participating in building God's spiritual house.
Historical Context
In patriarchal ancient society, this explicit mention of women's full participation was remarkable. Women brought jewelry, spun yarn, and contributed skills and materials—recognized as equal participants in sacred construction.
Reflection
- What does the equal participation of men and women in tabernacle construction teach about gender in worship and service?
- How does this inclusive call to bring offerings prefigure the universal priesthood of all believers in the New Covenant?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord