Old Testament
Exodus 35:23
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, we see a community coming together to contribute materials for a significant project.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Everyone who had blue, purple, or scarlet yarn, fine linen, goats' hair, rams' skins dyed red, or badgers' skins brought them.
And every man, with whom was found blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats’ hair, and red skins of rams, and badgers’ skins, brought them.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a community coming together to contribute materials for a significant project. The people brought various items, including colorful yarns and fine fabrics, which were essential for creating the sacred space. Each person offered what they had, showing their willingness to participate in something greater than themselves. This act of giving highlights the importance of collaboration and generosity. It wasn't just about the materials; it was about the heart behind the giving. Everyone had something valuable to contribute, and together, they created a beautiful place of worship. This moment illustrates how collective efforts can lead to remarkable outcomes when individuals unite for a common purpose. It reminds us that our unique contributions, no matter how small, can make a significant impact when combined with others. The act of bringing these items was a way for the community to express their devotion and commitment to their shared beliefs and values.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Exodus 35:23 to your life
Consider what unique gifts or resources you can offer to your community. Just like the people in this passage, your contributions can help create something meaningful. Reflect on how you can support a shared goal and encourage others to do the same. Every little bit counts in making a difference together.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 35:23 mean?
Exodus 35:23 describes how the community contributed various materials for a sacred project, emphasizing the importance of collective effort and generosity in creating a meaningful space for worship.
What is the significance of the materials mentioned in Exodus 35:23?
The materials like blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, along with fine linen and skins, were essential for constructing the tabernacle, symbolizing the beauty and value of contributions made by the community.
How does Exodus 35:23 illustrate community involvement?
This verse shows that everyone in the community had something valuable to offer, highlighting how individual contributions can come together to achieve a common goal.
What can we learn from the giving in Exodus 35:23?
The act of giving in this passage teaches us that our unique resources and willingness to contribute can lead to significant outcomes when we work together for a shared purpose.

The Book of Exodus
Exodus 1: Israel's Oppression in Egypt
The sons of Israel settle in Egypt, and their families grow rapidly until the land is filled with them. A new Pharaoh arises who does not know Joseph and fears that the Israelites will join Egypt's enemies if war comes, so he places them under harsh labor and forces them to build the store cities Pithom and Raamses. The more they are oppressed, the more they multiply, which increases Egyptian fear. Pharaoh commands the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill every male child at birth, but they fear God and let the boys live. When Pharaoh confronts them, they say the Hebrew women deliver before the midwives arrive, and God blesses the midwives with households. Pharaoh then commands all his people to cast every Hebrew son into the river while allowing the daughters to live.
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