Exodus 35:20

The People Offer Gifts · Exodus 35:20–29
Read Exodus 35

Translations

Modern
Then the whole congregation of Israel withdrew from the presence of Moses.
Traditional
And all the congregation of the children of Israel departed from the presence of Moses.
Literal
And all the congregation of the sons of Israel departed from before the face of Moses.
Latin
Egressaque omnis multitudo filiorum Israël de conspectu Moysi,

Original

Hebrew
English
Then the whole congregation of Israel withdrew from the presence of Moses.

Notes

At the creation of the gold calf, Aaron asked only for earrings (see study note on 32:2–4). Here, Moses invites the people to bring various gifts (35:4–9). They gave as their hearts and spirits inspired them (35:21). Everyone could contribute something and the giving was voluntary. So, the people ended up giving too much and Moses had to stop them (36:4–7).

Much of the report about building the Tent of Meeting repeats what 25:1–31:18 said. There is a change from the imperative mood to the indicative, and there are certain changes in the order.

This repetition emphasizes that the work was done exactly as God commanded (see 40:16). The people had tried to secure God's presence their own way with the gold calf, which led to disaster. Now, by following God's way, they received blessings (40:34–38).

People

Israel: Patriarch, son of Isaac, father of twelve tribes Moses: Prophet who led Israel out of Egypt

Glossary

Biblical Concept of Law Book of Exodus Deuteronomy, Book of History of Israel Leviticus, Book of Offerings and Sacrifices Tabernacle Tanned, Tanner, Tanning

Topics

Liberality: General Scriptures Concerning Tabernacle: Materials For, Voluntarily offered The Theocracy: or Immediate Government by God: Consisted in His: Exacting Tribute