Bible Commentaries
Exodus 36

Introduction

A.M. 2513. B.C. 1491.

In this chapter,

(1,) The work of the tabernacle is begun, Exodus 36:1-4 .

(2,) A stop put to the people’s contributions, Exodus 36:5-7 .

(3,) A particular account of the making the tabernacle; the fine curtains of it, Exodus 36:8-13 . The coarse ones, Exodus 36:14-19 . The boards, Exodus 36:20-30 . The bars, Exodus 36:31-34 . The partition veil, Exodus 36:35 , Exodus 36:36 ; and the hangings of the door, Exodus 36:37 , Exodus 36:38 .

Verse 2

Exodus 36:2. And Moses called Bezaleel Even those whom God has qualified for, and inclined to the service of the tabernacle, yet must wait for a call to it, either extraordinary, as that of preachers and apostles, or ordinary, as that of pastors and teachers. And observe who they were that Moses called; those in whose heart God had put wisdom for this purpose, beyond their natural capacity, and whose heart stirred him up to come to the work in good earnest. Those are to be called to the building of the gospel tabernacle, whom God has by his grace made in some measure fit for the work, and free to it: ability and willingness, with resolution, are the two things to be regarded in the call of ministers.

Verse 35

Exodus 36:35. And he made a veil The veil, made for a partition between the holy place and the most holy, signified the darkness and distance of that dispensation compared with the New Testament, which shows us the glory of God more clearly, and invites us to draw near, to it; and the darkness and distance of our present state in comparison with heaven, where we shall be ever with the Lord, and see him as he is.

Verse 37

Exodus 36:37. A hanging Which divided the holy place from the court.