Exodus 35:25

Every skilled woman spun with her hands and brought what she had spun: blue, purple, or scarlet yarn, or fine linen.

Study Bible

Every skilled woman
This phrase highlights the involvement of women in the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing their skills and contributions. The Hebrew word for "skilled" is "חָכָם" (chakam), which denotes wisdom and expertise. This reflects the biblical principle that God values the talents and abilities of all His people, regardless of gender. Historically, this inclusion of women in such a significant religious project underscores the communal effort and the importance of each individual's gifts in the service of God.

spun with her hands
The act of spinning with one's hands indicates a personal and dedicated effort. The Hebrew root "טָוָה" (tavah) means to spin or twist fibers into thread. This process was labor-intensive and required patience and skill, symbolizing the devotion and care the women put into their work for the Tabernacle. It serves as a metaphor for how believers are to use their God-given talents diligently and faithfully in service to Him.

and brought what she had spun
This phrase suggests an act of offering and contribution. The Hebrew verb "בּוֹא" (bo) means to bring or to come, indicating a voluntary and willing act of giving. The women not only worked with their hands but also brought the fruits of their labor to be used for God's purposes. This reflects the biblical principle of stewardship, where believers are called to offer their best to God, recognizing that all they have is ultimately from Him.

blue, purple, or scarlet yarn, or fine linen
These materials were precious and symbolically significant. Blue, purple, and scarlet dyes were costly and often associated with royalty and divinity. The Hebrew words for these colors, "תְּכֵלֶת" (tekeleth), "אַרְגָּמָן" (argaman), and "שָׁנִי" (shani), respectively, highlight the richness and beauty of the offerings. Fine linen, "שֵׁשׁ" (shesh), was a symbol of purity and righteousness. Together, these materials represent the beauty and holiness of the Tabernacle, pointing to the splendor and majesty of God Himself. The use of such materials in the Tabernacle construction underscores the importance of giving our best to God, reflecting His glory in our offerings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Skilled Women
These are the women of Israel who possessed the skill and craftsmanship to spin yarn and linen. Their work was essential for the construction of the Tabernacle.

2. Spinning
The act of creating yarn or thread from raw materials. In this context, it was a skilled labor that contributed to the sacred work of building the Tabernacle.

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary constructed by the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness, where God would dwell among His people.

4. Materials (Blue, Purple, Scarlet Yarn, Fine Linen)
These materials were significant in the construction of the Tabernacle, symbolizing royalty, divinity, and purity.

5. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who conveyed God's instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and organized the contributions of the people.

Teaching Points

The Value of Skill and Craftsmanship
God values the skills and talents He has given us. Like the women who spun yarn for the Tabernacle, we should use our abilities to serve God and His purposes.

The Importance of Contribution
Every contribution, no matter how small it may seem, is significant in the work of God. The women’s spinning was crucial for the Tabernacle, reminding us that our efforts in the church and community matter.

Unity in Diversity
Just as the Tabernacle required various materials and skills, the body of Christ thrives on diverse gifts and talents. We should celebrate and encourage the unique contributions of each member.

Willingness to Serve
The women willingly offered their skills for the Tabernacle. We should be eager to serve God with our talents, recognizing that our work is an act of worship.

Symbolism of Colors and Materials
The specific colors and materials used in the Tabernacle have deep symbolic meanings. Understanding these can enrich our appreciation of biblical symbolism and its application to our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can you identify and use your skills and talents to serve God and your community, similar to the skilled women in Exodus 35:25?

2. In what ways does the diversity of gifts within your church or community reflect the construction of the Tabernacle?

3. How does understanding the symbolism of the materials used in the Tabernacle enhance your appreciation of God's instructions and design?

4. Reflect on a time when you contributed to a project or cause. How did your contribution, no matter how small, impact the overall outcome?

5. How can the example of the skilled women in Exodus 35:25 inspire you to approach your daily work and responsibilities as acts of worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 31
The virtuous woman is described as one who works with willing hands, similar to the skilled women in Exodus 35:25.

1 Corinthians 12
Paul speaks about the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ, emphasizing that each person's contribution is valuable, much like the skilled work of the women in Exodus.

Colossians 3:23
Encourages believers to work heartily as for the Lord, reflecting the dedication of the women who spun materials for the Tabernacle.