Bible Commentaries

THE SABBATH, Exodus 35:1-3.

1. These are the words — The plan of the tabernacle which had been given Moses in the mount had not yet been communicated to Israel. Moses now assembles all the congregation, and makes known how Jehovah would have them prepare for him a sanctuary.

2. The seventh day… a sabbath of rest — The purpose of this repetition of the sabbath law was probably to prevent any attempt to carry forward the work of the tabernacle on the holy day. See note on Exodus 31:13.

3. Kindle no fire — This prohibition is implied in Exodus 16:23, but is here first formally enunciated. The offence recorded in Numbers 15:32-36, looked toward the violation of this commandment.

THE OFFERINGS FOR THE SANCTUARY, Exodus 35:4-29.

5-9. An offering — See notes on Exodus 25:2-7.

10. Wise hearted — See note on Exodus 28:3.

11-19. The tabernacle, etc. — These different parts of the sanctuary and the sacred vessels are illustrated in notes on chaps. 25-28.

21. Every one whom his spirit made willing — Were there, then, some who failed to assist in thus providing for the work of the tabernacle? So one may naturally infer from the form of statement here recorded. This would only accord with what is noticeable in all periods of the history of God’s people. In times of highest enthusiasm and self-consecration, there will be found some heartless hangers on.

22. Both men and women — As if anticipating the New Testament idea, that in the life and fellowship of God there is neither male nor female.

Galatians 3:28. But in the making of this sanctuary, as in building the Christian Church, there is work both for men and women. As there are some kinds of work suitable only for men and not for women, so there are other kinds suitable only for women and not for men. So, too, it may be in the Christian Church.

Bracelets — The exact meaning of the word ( חח) thus translated is not certain. It has been rendered by brooches, hooks, chains, clasps, nose-jewel.

Earrings — See on Exodus 32:2.

Rings — Probably signet rings. See note on Genesis 41:42.

Tablets — Occurs only here and Numbers 31:50, and is of uncertain meaning. It has been variously explained, as armlets, necklaces, beads, lockets.

25. Women… did spin — This appears to have been the business of women among the Egyptians and other ancient nations. The fact that the wise hearted women did this work shows that it was a labour requiring skill.