Exodus 36:35
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 36:35
35 And he made a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: with cherubims made he it of cunning work.
Chapter Context
Exodus 36 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, wisdom, hope. 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 21-38: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 36:35
35 And he made a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: with cherubims made he it of cunning work.
Analysis
Making rings of gold (טַבְּעֹת זָהָב, tabba'ot zahav) as places for bars demonstrates that even connection points must reflect divine glory. The rings, though functional hardware, were made precious through gold—teaching that every aspect of God's house, even practical necessities, should reflect His excellence. In the body of Christ, even seemingly mundane functions (administration, helps, etc.) are gifts from God deserving golden excellence (1 Corinthians 12:28).
Historical Context
The gold rings were likely cast or forged, then attached to the boards at regular intervals to hold the bars. Making these functional items from gold rather than brass or iron emphasized that everything in God's dwelling reflected His preciousness.
Reflection
- What does making even functional hardware (rings) from gold teach about excellence in all aspects of serving God?
- How does the gold rings' dual nature (functional and precious) challenge false dichotomies between practical service and spiritual worship?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 27:51