MPV Commentary

Contributions to the Tabernacle.

Moses gathered all the congregation of Israel and told them about the magnificent tabernacle they were to build for God's regular worship (Ex 25:1-40; Ex 27:1-21; Ex 30:1-31:18). The people departed from Moses' presence, eager to contribute their best treasures to this sacred project.

The congregation came forward with offerings, each person whose heart was stirred to give. This extraordinary generosity was likely motivated by a sense of duty and gratitude for God's favor. They remembered their recent transgression and were now zealous for good works (2Co 7:11). Their love for God and devotion to His service drove them to contribute generously.

However, not everyone was willing to part with their possessions. Some people were too fond of the world and loved their wealth more than God. They could not bring themselves to give even a small portion for the tabernacle's construction.

Men and women alike came forward with offerings, with the women presenting their gifts first, followed by their male companions who shared similar generosity. The people brought bracelets, rings, and other ornaments that were valued highly in those times. These items served as currency, weighed and used for trade. The abundance of these ornaments was astonishing, especially considering the simplicity of Egyptian clothing.

The willingness to lay aside such treasured possessions and devote them to God's house was a remarkable display of faith. It demonstrated their commitment to serving God above all else, just like the Eastern sages who laid their best treasures at God's service.

Moses reminded the people that Bezaleel, the son of Uri, had been chosen by God for this task (Ex 31:2-5). Now that the collection was complete and the construction about to begin, Moses emphasized that those entrusted with applying the gold and silver had been appointed by divine authority.

God had filled Bezaleel with wisdom and skill in art and science. This gift from God was not limited to just a few individuals but was also demonstrated by others who offered their services to fabricate tapestries for the tabernacle. These skills were likely learned by Israelite women while serving as bondwomen in Egyptian princes' households.