Exodus 35:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 35:27
27 And the rulers brought onyx stones, and stones to be set, for the ephod, and for the breastplate;
Chapter Context
Exodus 35 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of discipleship, faith, prayer. 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 reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 35:27
27 And the rulers brought onyx stones, and stones to be set, for the ephod, and for the breastplate;
Analysis
Blue, purple, and scarlet materials with fine linen represent colors requiring expensive dyes and skilled labor. Those who possessed these materials 'with whom they were found' (נִמְצָא אִתּוֹ, nimtza ito) brought them—emphasizing stewardship: recognizing that what we 'find with us' belongs ultimately to God and should be consecrated to His purposes. The phrase 'all the work of the service' (כָּל־מְלֶאכֶת הָעֲבֹדָה, kol-melekhet ha-avodah) sanctifies practical work as spiritual service.
Historical Context
These colored threads required extensive processing: blue from Mediterranean mollusk dye, purple from murex snails (requiring thousands per ounce of dye), and scarlet from oak scale insects. Their availability indicated both wealth and willingness to use it for God's glory.
Reflection
- What does the phrase 'with whom they were found' teach about stewardship and recognizing God's ownership of our possessions?
- How does bringing expensive, already-processed materials demonstrate sacrificial giving versus giving from surplus?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Chronicles 29:6, Ezra 2:68