Exodus 25:3 - Printer Friendly

ESV: And this is the contribution that you shall receive from them: gold, silver, and bronze,

NIV: These are the offerings you are to receive from them: gold, silver and bronze;

NASB: This is the contribution which you are to take from them: gold, silver, and bronze,

CSB: This is the offering you are to receive from them: gold, silver, and bronze;

NLT: Here is a list of sacred offerings you may accept from them: gold, silver, and bronze;

KJV: And this is the offering which ye shall take of them; gold, and silver, and brass,

NKJV: And this is the offering which you shall take from them: gold, silver, and bronze;

This passage lists the materials the Lord is asking the people to donate according to their conscience. The offerings will be used to create a series of important religious objects. First among the requests are precious metals: gold, silver, and bronze. These will be especially important for gilded items. This would include the ark of the covenant (Exodus 25:10–11) and the table (Exodus 25:23–24). Solid gold would be used for some pieces (Exodus 25:17; 29, 31).

Israel has been free for only about three months (Exodus 19:1, 5–6). Much of what they could contribute would have come from Egyptian "donations" at their release (Exodus 3:21–22; 11:2–3; 12:33–36). Some may have been captured after the skirmish with Amalekites (Exodus 17:8, 13). The sacred objects would also take time to make. This would give the Israelites time to procure missing resources.

Exodus 25:1–9 establishes a collection for materials to make sacred objects. The Israelites are to offer precious gems, metals, cloth, building materials, and oils. Much of this probably came from Egyptians who begged their former slaves to leave (Exodus 3:21–22; 11:2–3; 12:33–36). Some may be spoils from the defeat of the Amalekites (Exodus 17:8, 13). The resources will be used to make a sanctuary for worship and sacrifice. This will be a "tabernacle:" a large tent. The design of each component is detailed and must be followed exactly.

Israelites are to contribute precious metals, cloth, oils, and other resources to create a sanctuary for worship and sacrifice. These will be used to form various sacred objects. Among these are the renowned ark of the covenant, a table for consecrated bread, and a lampstand with seven ornate lamps. These will be kept in the most sacred parts of the sanctuary. Upcoming chapters will focus on an elaborate tent which will serve as a portable temple (Exodus 26—28).

The Lord has given the foundations of His covenant to Israel (Exodus 20—23) and they have affirmed it (Exodus 24). Now God gives Moses detailed instructions for a system of worship. This begins with designs for a sacred container—the ark of the covenant—as well as a table and lampstand. These will be kept in the "tabernacle:" an ornate tent used as a portable temple for Israel (Exodus 26—28).

The book of Exodus establishes God's covenant relationship with the full-fledged nation of Israel. The descendants of Abraham prosper after settling in Egypt, only to be enslaved by a fearful, hateful Egyptian Pharaoh. God appoints Moses to lead the people out of this bondage. Moses serves as God's spokesman, as the Lord brings plagues and judgments on Egypt, leading to the release of Israel.

Accessed 7/3/2025 9:09:29 AM