Exodus 36:4

The People Bring More than Enough · Exodus 36:1–7
Read Exodus 36

Translations

Modern
…so that all the skilled craftsmen who were doing all the work on the sanctuary left their work
Traditional
And all the wise men, that wrought all the work of the sanctuary, came every man from his work which they made;
Literal
And all the wise ones doing all the work of the Holy Place came, every man, from his work that they were doing,
Latin
Unde artifices venire compulsi,

Original

Hebrew
English
…so that all the skilled craftsmen who were doing all the work on the sanctuary left their work

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).

Glossary

Biblical Concept of Law Book of Exodus Deuteronomy, Book of History of Israel Leviticus, Book of Tabernacle

Topics

Israel: Gifts Consecrated for the Creation of the Tabernacle Liberality: General Scriptures Concerning Liberality: Israelites at the Erection of the Tabernacle Tabernacle: Materials For, Voluntarily offered