Topical Bible: Tabernacle: Workmen Who Constructed It Were Inspired

◄ Tabernacle: Workmen Who Constructed It Were Inspired ►

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The construction of the Tabernacle, as described in the Book of Exodus, stands as a significant event in the history of the Israelites, reflecting both divine instruction and human craftsmanship. The Tabernacle served as a portable earthly dwelling place for the presence of God among His people during their journey through the wilderness. The workmen who constructed the Tabernacle were not only skilled artisans but were also divinely inspired, ensuring that the sacred structure was built according to God's precise specifications.

Divine Selection and Inspiration

The primary figures involved in the construction of the Tabernacle were Bezalel and Oholiab. Bezalel, from the tribe of Judah, was specifically chosen by God for this monumental task. In Exodus 31:2-5 , the Lord declares, "See, I have appointed by name Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship, to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft."

This passage highlights that Bezalel's abilities were not merely natural talents but were enhanced by the Spirit of God, granting him wisdom and understanding necessary for the sacred task. The divine inspiration ensured that the work was not only skillful but also aligned with the holy purpose of the Tabernacle.

Assistance and Collaboration

Alongside Bezalel, Oholiab, from the tribe of Dan, was appointed to assist in the work. Exodus 31:6 states, "Moreover, I have selected Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to be his assistant. I have also given skill to all the craftsmen, that they may fashion all that I have commanded you." This indicates that the inspiration extended beyond Bezalel and Oholiab to include all the craftsmen involved, ensuring a collaborative effort in the construction process.

Craftsmanship and Obedience

The workmen's tasks included crafting the Ark of the Covenant, the table for the Bread of the Presence, the lampstand, the altar of incense, and other sacred furnishings. Each item was to be made according to the detailed instructions provided by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. Exodus 36:1 emphasizes the obedience and skill of the craftsmen: "So Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person whom the LORD has given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary are to do the work just as the LORD has commanded."

The workmen's adherence to divine instructions was crucial, as the Tabernacle was not merely a physical structure but a symbol of God's covenant and presence with His people. Their inspired craftsmanship ensured that the Tabernacle was a fitting dwelling for the divine presence, reflecting the glory and holiness of God.

Spiritual Significance

The inspiration of the workmen in constructing the Tabernacle underscores the belief that God equips His people with the necessary gifts and abilities to fulfill His purposes. The Tabernacle itself foreshadows the coming of Christ, who is described in the New Testament as the true Tabernacle, dwelling among humanity. The workmen's inspired efforts in building the Tabernacle serve as a testament to the importance of divine guidance and obedience in the service of God's kingdom.

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Exodus 31:1-11
And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,
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Exodus 35:30-35
And Moses said to the children of Israel, See, the LORD has called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah;
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Library

Hiram, the Inspired Artificer
... for supplies of material, but of workmen, and chief ... Hiram constructed of bright,
burnished brass, an immense ... of Aholiab, Ahisamach, and other Tabernacle workers ...
/.../milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/hiram the inspired artificer.htm

The Tabernacle of the Most High
... I see the workmen at their labor. ... notable that in his time a baptistry was constructed
"for the ... This is only a tabernacle; these stones will moulder and decay ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 5 1859/the tabernacle of the most.htm

The Reaction against Egypt
... must have had his tomb constructed at Saqqarah ... and the prisoners taken from among
them were incorporated into ... and endeavoured to stimulate the workmen to their ...
/.../chapter iithe reaction against egypt.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... chosen directly by God or by those inspired by Him ... the women who "served at the door
of" the tabernacle. ... larger portion of the victims than they were entitled to ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Church Fabrics and Services.
... a church had died out, when he constructed his first ... he stood by, complacently watching
the workmen as they ... Ripon Cathedral, some of the old tabernacle work of ...
/.../the english church in the eighteenth century/chapter x church fabrics and.htm