Exodus 35:28 (KJV)

What does Exodus 35:28 mean?

Exodus 35:28 lists some of the materials brought by the Israelites for use in the tabernacle: spices, oil for the lamp, oil for anointing, and fragrant incense. These items were essential for the worship practices and rituals God instructed Moses to establish.

In this part of Exodus, Moses is speaking to the Israelites as they gather supplies for building and furnishing the tabernacle, the sacred tent where God would dwell among them. The verse highlights specific offerings—spices and oils—that were needed for lighting the lampstand, making anointing oil, and preparing sweet-smelling incense, all important for the tabernacle’s daily functions and ceremonies.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 35:28

• The word for "spice" is בֶּשֶׂם (besem), which refers to aromatic substances used for incense and anointing. This points to the importance of fragrance in worship and ritual purity.
• "Oil" is שֶׁמֶן (shemen), a general term for oil, often olive oil, used here both for lighting ("for the light") and for making anointing oil. The same word is used twice, showing its different ritual purposes.
• "Light" is מָאוֹר (ma'or), meaning a source of light, specifically the lampstand in the tabernacle. The oil was necessary to keep the lamp burning continually.
• "Anointing" is מִשְׁחָה (mishchah), which means a special oil mixture set apart for consecrating priests and sacred objects.
• "Sweet" is סַמִּים (sammim), which refers to fragrant or aromatic substances, emphasizing the pleasing scent required for incense.
• "Incense" is קְטֹרֶת (qetoreth), meaning a blend of spices burned to produce a fragrant smoke, a symbol of prayers rising to God.

Why Exodus 35:28 matters

• This verse clarifies that the offerings for the tabernacle were not just precious metals or fabrics, but also included everyday items like oil and spices, showing that all kinds of gifts were valued in worship.
• The mention of specific uses—lighting, anointing, incense—reminds readers that each offering had a distinct and necessary role in the tabernacle’s worship life.
• Exodus 35:28 connects to the wider passage by illustrating the community’s willing participation and the practical needs of maintaining a place of worship according to God’s instructions.