Old Testament

Exodus 35:23

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Everyone who had blue, purple, or scarlet yarn, fine linen, goats' hair, rams' skins dyed red, or badgers' skins brought them.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

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.

What Exodus 35:23 means

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.

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

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Naomi weeping between her daughters-in-law Ruth and Orpah outside a house in Moab

Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Ruth

Panoramic view across Tel Beer Sheva archaeological site and surrounding landscape.

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Beersheba

Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Exodus 35:23

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Exodus 35:23

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 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.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.