Old Testament
Exodus 26:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And you shall make a covering for the tent of rams' skins dyed red, and a covering above of badgers' skins.
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And thou shalt make a covering for the tent of rams’ skins dyed red, and a covering above of badgers’ skins.
What Exodus 26:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs the Israelites on how to create a protective covering for the tent, which served as a sacred space for worship. The covering is made from rams' skins dyed red, symbolizing sacrifice and atonement. Above this, a layer of badgers' skins provides additional protection. This design emphasizes the importance of both beauty and durability in the place where God would meet His people. The red dye signifies the seriousness of their relationship with God, reminding them of the sacrifices made for their freedom. The badgers' skins, while less visually striking, represent the practical needs of shelter and safety. Together, these materials reflect a balance between reverence and functionality, showing that worship involves both the heart and the mind. This verse highlights how God cares about the details of our lives and worship, encouraging us to create spaces that honor Him and meet our needs. It invites us to consider how we can make our environments reflect our values and beliefs.
How to apply Exodus 26:14 to your life
Consider how you can create a space in your life that reflects your values and beliefs. This could be a physical space, like your home, or a mental space, like your mindset. Strive to balance beauty and practicality in your daily life, honoring what matters most to you and those around you. Reflect on how your environment influences your relationship with God and others. Make intentional choices that foster connection and reverence.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Exodus 26:14
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 26:14 mean?
Exodus 26:14 describes God's instructions for making a protective covering for the tent of meeting. The covering is made from rams' skins dyed red and badgers' skins, symbolizing both sacrifice and practical protection.
What is the significance of rams' skins dyed red in Exodus 26:14?
The rams' skins dyed red symbolize sacrifice and atonement, reflecting the seriousness of the Israelites' relationship with God and the sacrifices made for their freedom.
What does the badgers' skins represent in Exodus 26:14?
The badgers' skins provide additional protection for the tent, representing the practical needs of shelter and safety, balancing the beauty of the red-dyed rams' skins.
Why is the covering for the tent important in Exodus 26:14?
The covering is important as it creates a sacred space for worship, emphasizing that God cares about both the beauty and functionality of the environment where His people meet Him.
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