Exodus 35:6

blue, purple, and scarlet yarn; fine linen and goat hair;

Study Bible

blue
The Hebrew word for "blue" is "tekeleth," which is often associated with royalty and divinity. In ancient times, blue dye was extracted from the murex snail, making it rare and valuable. This color is frequently used in the tabernacle and priestly garments, symbolizing the heavenly realm and God's holy presence. The use of blue in the tabernacle's construction signifies the divine nature of the space where God would dwell among His people.

purple
The term "argaman" in Hebrew refers to purple, a color that also denotes royalty, wealth, and power. Purple dye was expensive and labor-intensive to produce, often reserved for kings and high officials. In the context of the tabernacle, purple represents the majesty and sovereignty of God, reminding the Israelites of His supreme authority and the honor due to Him.

scarlet yarn
"Scarlet" or "tola'at shani" in Hebrew is a vibrant red color, symbolizing sacrifice, atonement, and redemption. The color red is often associated with blood, which is central to the sacrificial system established by God for the atonement of sins. The inclusion of scarlet yarn in the tabernacle's construction points to the future sacrifice of Christ, whose blood would provide ultimate redemption for humanity.

fine linen
The Hebrew word "shesh" refers to fine linen, a fabric known for its purity and quality. Linen was used extensively in the tabernacle and priestly garments, symbolizing righteousness and holiness. The use of fine linen underscores the purity required in approaching God and the sanctity of the space where He would meet with His people. It serves as a reminder of the call to holiness for all who serve and worship the Lord.

goat hair
"Izim" in Hebrew refers to goat hair, which was used to make durable and weather-resistant coverings for the tabernacle. Goat hair was a common material in the ancient Near East, valued for its practicality and strength. Its inclusion in the tabernacle's construction highlights the need for protection and endurance in the journey of faith. It also reflects the provision and care of God, who equips His people with what they need to fulfill His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The people of God, recently freed from Egyptian bondage, who are called to contribute materials for the Tabernacle.

3. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary that God instructed the Israelites to build as a place of worship and His dwelling among them.

4. Wilderness of Sinai
The location where the Israelites are camped and where they receive the instructions for the Tabernacle.

5. Artisans and Skilled Workers
Individuals among the Israelites who are endowed with skills and wisdom to craft the materials into the Tabernacle.

Teaching Points

Willingness to Contribute
God desires offerings that come from a willing heart. Reflect on how you can contribute your resources and talents to God's work today.

Diversity of Gifts
The variety of materials and skills needed for the Tabernacle highlights the importance of diverse gifts within the body of Christ. Consider how your unique abilities can serve the church.

Symbolism of Colors
The colors blue, purple, and scarlet have symbolic meanings, often representing royalty, divinity, and sacrifice. Reflect on how these themes are fulfilled in Christ.

God's Dwelling Among Us
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit. How does this truth impact your daily life?

Attention to Detail
The specific instructions for the Tabernacle remind us of God's attention to detail and order. How can you apply this principle in your spiritual and practical life?

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the willingness of the Israelites to contribute materials for the Tabernacle teach us about our attitude towards giving?

2. How do the diverse materials and skills required for the Tabernacle construction reflect the diversity of gifts within the church today?

3. In what ways do the colors mentioned in Exodus 35:6 (blue, purple, and scarlet) point to the person and work of Jesus Christ?

4. How does understanding that believers are now the temple of the Holy Spirit change the way you view your role in God's kingdom?

5. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your contributions to God's work are both willing and aligned with His detailed instructions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:1-9
This passage provides the initial instructions for the Tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of willing contributions from the heart.

2 Chronicles 2:7
Solomon's request for skilled workers and materials for the Temple echoes the need for skilled artisans in the construction of the Tabernacle.

Hebrews 9:1-5
This New Testament passage reflects on the significance of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, connecting it to the greater reality of Christ's ministry.