Exodus 35:24 (KJV)

What does Exodus 35:24 mean?

Exodus 35:24 describes how everyone who wanted to give an offering of silver or brass brought it as a gift for the LORD, and anyone who had acacia (shittim) wood suitable for the work of the sanctuary also brought it. The verse shows that people contributed materials they had, each according to what they possessed, for the construction and service of the tabernacle.

In this scene, Moses is speaking to the Israelites as they gather materials for building the tabernacle, the special tent where God would be worshiped. The verse highlights both precious metals and a specific kind of wood—acacia—needed for the sanctuary’s construction. The focus is on voluntary giving: people brought what they had, whether it was metal or wood, to support the work of the tabernacle.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 35:24

• "Offering" (תְּרוּמָה, terumah): This word means a contribution or a lifted-up gift, often understood as something set apart for a sacred purpose. Here, it emphasizes that what was given—whether metal or wood—was dedicated specifically to God.
• "Shittim" (שִׁטִּים, shittim): This refers to acacia wood, a durable and valuable wood in the region. Its mention shows the practical needs of the tabernacle and the importance of every kind of material, not just precious metals.
• "Work" (מְלָאכָה, melakhah) and "service" (עֲבֹדָה, avodah): These words point to the skilled labor and ongoing duties involved in building and maintaining the tabernacle, highlighting that the offerings supported both construction and continued use.

Why Exodus 35:24 matters

• Exodus 35:24 makes clear that everyone could participate, not just the wealthy with silver or brass, but also those with useful materials like wood, showing the value of every contribution.
• The verse connects to the larger theme of communal involvement in building the tabernacle, emphasizing that the sanctuary was a shared project, not the work of a few.
• By naming specific materials and their uses, the verse helps readers understand the practical side of worship in ancient Israel and the real resources required for sacred spaces.