Exodus 35:34
And the LORD has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others.
And He has given
This phrase emphasizes the divine origin of the skills and abilities bestowed upon Bezalel and Oholiab. The Hebrew root for "given" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to bestow or grant. This highlights the sovereignty of God in equipping individuals for His purposes. It is a reminder that all talents and gifts are ultimately from God, and they are given for His glory and the edification of His people.

both him and Oholiab
The mention of both Bezalel and Oholiab underscores the collaborative nature of the work God has called them to. Bezalel, from the tribe of Judah, and Oholiab, from the tribe of Dan, represent unity among the tribes of Israel. This partnership signifies the importance of working together in the body of Christ, where diverse gifts and backgrounds come together to fulfill God's purposes.

son of Ahisamach
The inclusion of Oholiab's lineage, "son of Ahisamach," provides a historical and familial context. In ancient Israel, lineage was significant, often indicating one's heritage and role within the community. Ahisamach's name means "my brother supports," which could symbolize the supportive role Oholiab plays alongside Bezalel. This highlights the importance of family and community in nurturing and recognizing God-given talents.

of the tribe of Dan
The tribe of Dan was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, known for its craftsmanship and skills in various trades. This detail emphasizes that God calls and equips people from all walks of life and backgrounds. It serves as a reminder that no matter one's origin or status, God can use anyone for His divine purposes.

the ability to teach others
The ability to teach is a significant gift, as it involves not only possessing knowledge and skill but also the capacity to impart it to others. The Hebrew word for "teach" is "יָרָה" (yarah), which can also mean to instruct or direct. This highlights the role of mentorship and discipleship in the community of faith. Teaching is a means of multiplying one's gifts and ensuring that the knowledge and skills necessary for worship and service to God are passed down through generations. It underscores the importance of investing in others and equipping them for their roles in God's kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Bezalel
A skilled craftsman chosen by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle. He was filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship.

2. Oholiab
The son of Ahisamach, from the tribe of Dan, who was appointed to assist Bezalel. He was also endowed with the ability to teach and work alongside Bezalel in the construction of the Tabernacle.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. It was a central place of worship and sacrifice.

4. The Tribe of Dan
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, from which Oholiab hailed. This tribe was known for its craftsmanship and skills.

5. The Spirit of God
The divine presence and empowerment given to Bezalel and Oholiab, enabling them to perform their tasks with excellence and to teach others.
Teaching Points
God Equips for His Work
Just as God equipped Bezalel and Oholiab with the skills needed for the Tabernacle, He equips us with spiritual gifts and talents to fulfill His purposes today.

The Importance of Teaching
The ability to teach others is a significant gift. We should seek to pass on our knowledge and skills to others, ensuring the continuation of God’s work.

Diversity in Service
God uses people from different backgrounds and tribes, like Bezalel from Judah and Oholiab from Dan, to accomplish His purposes. This diversity enriches the body of Christ.

Empowerment by the Spirit
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to perform tasks beyond their natural abilities. We should rely on the Spirit for guidance and strength in our ministries.

Community and Collaboration
The construction of the Tabernacle was a community effort. In the same way, the church is called to work together, each member contributing their unique gifts.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the example of Bezalel and Oholiab challenge you to use your skills and talents for God's purposes?

2. In what ways can you identify and nurture the teaching abilities in yourself or others within your community?

3. How does the diversity of gifts within the church reflect the diversity seen in the appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab?

4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in empowering you for service, and how can you be more open to His leading?

5. How can you foster a spirit of collaboration and community in your church or ministry, similar to the construction of the Tabernacle?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Exodus 31:1-6
This passage introduces Bezalel and Oholiab, highlighting their divine appointment and the skills given to them by God for the construction of the Tabernacle.

1 Corinthians 12:4-11
This New Testament passage discusses the variety of spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit, emphasizing that each gift is for the common good, similar to how Bezalel and Oholiab's skills were for the benefit of the community.

2 Timothy 2:2
Paul instructs Timothy to entrust teachings to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others, paralleling the teaching role given to Bezalel and Oholiab.
Art InspirationExodus 35:30-34
Artistic Education of Israelites in EgyptW. E. Griffis.Exodus 35:30-34
Bezaleel; Or, Invention, Art, and ReligionF. Hastings.Exodus 35:30-34
Consecrated AbilityW. M. Taylor, D. D.Exodus 35:30-34
Inspiration for HandicraftD. Jones Hamer.Exodus 35:30-34
Prayer for Artistic Skill AnsweredChristian JournalExodus 35:30-34
The True Design of WorkH. Macmillan, D. D.Exodus 35:30-34
Wisdom a Divine GiftExodus 35:30-34
Bezaleel and AholiabJ. Orr Exodus 35:30-35
Bezaleel and AholiabD. Young Exodus 35:30-35
People
Aaron, Ahisamach, Aholiab, Bezaleel, Dan, Hur, Israelites, Moses, Shoham, Uri
Places
Sinai
Topics
Ability, Ahisamach, Ahis'amach, Aholiab, Dan, Direct, Heart, Inspired, Oholiab, Oho'liab, Power, Teach, Training, Tribe
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Exodus 35:30-34

     4312   bronze

Exodus 35:30-35

     3140   Holy Spirit, teacher
     5212   arts and crafts
     5273   creativity
     7459   tabernacle, in OT

Exodus 35:31-35

     3272   Holy Spirit, in OT
     8437   giving, of talents

Library
An Old Subscription List
'And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the Lord's offering to the work....' --EXODUS xxxv. 21. This is the beginning of the catalogue of contributions towards the erection of the Tabernacle in the wilderness. It emphasises the purely spontaneous and voluntary character of the gifts. There was plenty of compulsory work, of statutory contribution, in the Old Testament system of worship. Sacrifices and tithes and other things
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Appendix xvii. The Ordinances and Law of the Sabbath as Laid Down in the Mishnah and the Jerusalem Talmud.
The terribly exaggerated views of the Rabbis, and their endless, burdensome rules about the Sabbath may best be learned from a brief analysis of the Mishnah, as further explained and enlarged in the Jerusalem Talmud. [6476] For this purpose a brief analysis of what is, confessedly, one of the most difficult tractates may here be given. The Mishnic tractate Sabbath stands at the head of twelve tractates which together from the second of the six sections into which the Mishnah is divided, and which
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Gifts and Talents.
"And the Spirit of the Lord came upon him."--Judges iii. 10. We now consider the Holy Spirit's work in bestowing gifts, talents, and abilities upon artisans and professional men. Scripture declares that the special animation and qualification of persons for work assigned to them by God proceed from the Holy Spirit. The construction of the tabernacle required capable workmen, skilful carpenters, goldsmiths, and silversmiths, and masters in the arts of weaving and embroidering. Who will furnish Moses
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

Early Battles
Six months of joyous service amongst the Welsh miners was cut short by a telegram announcing to the sisters the serious illness of Mrs. Lee. Taking the news to their Divisional Commander, they were instructed to Headquarters. It was found that the illness was due to shock. The income from investments of the little estate left by Mr. Lee had dwindled; it now had disappeared altogether. Captain Lucy faced the matter with her usual practical decision. 'Mother, darling, there are two ways out. Either
Minnie L. Carpenter—The Angel Adjutant of "Twice Born Men"

Exodus
The book of Exodus--so named in the Greek version from the march of Israel out of Egypt--opens upon a scene of oppression very different from the prosperity and triumph in which Genesis had closed. Israel is being cruelly crushed by the new dynasty which has arisen in Egypt (i.) and the story of the book is the story of her redemption. Ultimately it is Israel's God that is her redeemer, but He operates largely by human means; and the first step is the preparation of a deliverer, Moses, whose parentage,
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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