Exodus 35:28

as well as spices and olive oil for the light, for the anointing oil, and for the fragrant incense.

Study Bible

as well as spices and olive oil for the light
In the construction of the Tabernacle, specific materials were required, including spices and olive oil. The olive oil was used for the lampstand, which provided light in the Holy Place. Olive oil, a staple in ancient Israel, was a symbol of purity and the Holy Spirit. The light from the lampstand represented God's presence and guidance. This imagery is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus is referred to as the "light of the world" (John 8:12).

for the anointing oil
Anointing oil was used to consecrate the priests and the Tabernacle, setting them apart for God's service. The oil was a mixture of olive oil and specific spices, as detailed in Exodus 30:22-25. Anointing signified being chosen and empowered by God, a practice seen throughout the Bible, including the anointing of kings like David (1 Samuel 16:13). This foreshadows the anointing of Jesus as the Messiah, the "Anointed One."

and for the fragrant incense
Fragrant incense was burned on the altar of incense, located in the Holy Place before the veil separating it from the Most Holy Place. The incense, made from a specific blend of spices (Exodus 30:34-38), symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to God (Psalm 141:2, Revelation 8:3-4). The use of incense in worship highlights the importance of prayer and intercession, with Christ as our ultimate intercessor (Hebrews 7:25).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who conveyed God's instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle.

2. Israelites
The people of God who were called to contribute materials for the Tabernacle.

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God would dwell among His people.

4. Anointing Oil
A sacred mixture used for consecrating the Tabernacle and its furnishings.

5. Fragrant Incense
A special blend used in worship, symbolizing prayers ascending to God.

Teaching Points

Sacred Contributions
The Israelites were called to give specific materials for the Tabernacle, reminding us of the importance of offering our best to God.

Symbolism of Oil and Incense
The anointing oil and incense symbolize the presence and prayers of God's people, encouraging us to maintain a life of worship and prayer.

Holiness in Worship
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's elements highlight the need for reverence and holiness in our worship practices.

Community Participation
The construction of the Tabernacle required the involvement of the entire community, teaching us the value of collective effort in serving God's purposes.

Spiritual Light
The oil for the light signifies the continuous presence of God, urging us to be vigilant in keeping our spiritual lamps burning brightly.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the call for specific contributions in Exodus 35:28 reflect the importance of intentional giving in our own lives?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the anointing oil and incense enhance our understanding of worship and prayer today?

3. How does the concept of holiness in the construction of the Tabernacle apply to our personal and communal worship experiences?

4. What lessons can we learn from the collective participation of the Israelites in building the Tabernacle, and how can we apply these lessons to our church communities?

5. How can we ensure that our spiritual "lamps" remain lit, and what role does the Holy Spirit play in this process, as seen in other scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 30:22-38
Provides detailed instructions for making the anointing oil and incense, emphasizing their sacredness and specific use in worship.

Leviticus 24:2
Discusses the use of oil for the light, highlighting the importance of maintaining the lampstand in the Tabernacle.

Psalm 141:2
Compares prayer to incense, illustrating the spiritual significance of the fragrant offerings.

2 Corinthians 2:15
Describes believers as the fragrance of Christ, connecting the concept of incense to the Christian witness.