Exodus 25:1-9·~1 min

Offerings for the Tabernacle

The LORD speaks to Moses and calls for an offering from those whose hearts move them. The work begins with willing giving rather than compulsion.

T¹hen the LORD said to Moses, ²“Tell the Israelites to bring Me an offering. You are to receive My offering from every man whose heart compels him. ³This is the offering you are to accept from them:

The needed materials are named in detail, from cloth and skins to oil and precious stones. Their purpose is to make a sanctuary where the LORD dwells, according to the pattern He shows Moses.

⁴blue, purple, and scarlet yarn; ⁵ram skins dyed red and fine leather; ⁶olive oil for the light; ⁷and onyx stones and gemstones to be mounted on the ephod and breastpiece. ⁸And they are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them. ⁹You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings according to the pattern I show you.

Section summaryThe LORD tells Moses to receive gifts freely given from the people and names the costly materials to be gathered. These offerings are for a sanctuary where He will dwell among them, and the whole tabernacle must follow the pattern He shows.

Role in the chapterThis opening section sets the purpose and terms for everything that follows. Before any furnishing is described, the chapter establishes that the sanctuary arises from willing gifts and must be made under God's direction.