Exodus 35:8

olive oil for the light; spices for the anointing oil and for the fragrant incense;

Study Bible

and oil for lighting
The Hebrew word for "oil" is "שֶׁמֶן" (shemen), which is often associated with purity and consecration in the biblical context. Oil was a vital commodity in ancient Israel, used not only for lighting but also for anointing and medicinal purposes. The "lighting" refers to the lamps in the Tabernacle, which were to burn continually as a symbol of God's eternal presence and guidance. This oil signifies the light of God that illuminates the path of the faithful, reminding believers of Jesus' declaration in the New Testament, "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12).

and spices for the anointing oil
The "spices" mentioned here are aromatic substances used to create the sacred anointing oil. The Hebrew term "בְּשָׂמִים" (besamim) indicates a variety of fragrant spices, which were carefully selected and blended according to divine instructions. Anointing oil was used to consecrate priests, kings, and sacred objects, setting them apart for God's service. This practice underscores the importance of holiness and dedication in the life of a believer, as well as the sweet aroma of a life lived in obedience to God.

and for the fragrant incense
"Fragrant incense" in Hebrew is "קְטֹרֶת" (qetoret), a mixture of spices burned as an offering to God. Incense in the Tabernacle symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to heaven, as seen in Psalm 141:2, "May my prayer be set before You like incense." The use of incense in worship highlights the importance of prayer and communion with God, serving as a reminder of the sweet-smelling sacrifice of Christ, whose intercession on behalf of humanity is pleasing to the Father.

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 who are called to contribute materials for the Tabernacle.

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

4. Olive Oil
Used for lighting the lamps in the Tabernacle, symbolizing the presence and guidance of God.

5. Anointing Oil and Incense
Used for consecrating the priests and the Tabernacle, representing holiness and the prayers of the people ascending to God.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Light
The olive oil for the light in the Tabernacle symbolizes God's presence and guidance. As believers, we are called to be lights in the world, reflecting God's presence in our lives.

Holiness and Consecration
The anointing oil and incense signify holiness and dedication to God. We are called to live lives set apart for God's purposes, consecrated by His Spirit.

Generosity and Willingness
The Israelites were asked to bring offerings willingly. Our giving should be a reflection of our gratitude and commitment to God, done with a willing heart.

Prayer as Incense
Just as incense was a pleasing aroma to God, our prayers are a sweet fragrance to Him. We should cultivate a life of prayer, continually lifting our hearts to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of olive oil for light in the Tabernacle relate to Jesus' teaching about being the light of the world in Matthew 5:14-16?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our lives are a "fragrant incense" to God, as described in Psalm 141:2 and Revelation 5:8?

3. What does the willingness of the Israelites to contribute materials for the Tabernacle teach us about our own attitudes towards giving and service in the church?

4. How can the concept of anointing and consecration in Exodus 35:8 be applied to our daily lives as Christians?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt guided by God's "light" in a decision or situation. How can you continue to seek His guidance in your daily walk?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 24:2
This verse also discusses the use of olive oil for the lamps, emphasizing the importance of keeping the light burning continually before the Lord.

Psalm 141:2
The psalmist likens prayer to incense, connecting the fragrant incense in Exodus to the prayers of the faithful.

Matthew 5:14-16
Jesus calls His followers the light of the world, drawing a parallel to the light in the Tabernacle and the role of believers to shine in the world.

Revelation 5:8
The prayers of the saints are described as incense, linking the Old Testament practice to New Testament worship.