BIBLE QUIZ PREP ON EXODUS

Chapter 1:1-22 Israel’s Suffering in Egypt

• The chapter begins by recounting the names of Jacob’s sons who came to Egypt
with their families: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Benjamin, Dan,
Naphtali, Gad, and Asher (Exodus 1:1-4). Together with Joseph (already in Egypt),
the total number of Jacob's descendants was seventy.

• Over time, the Israelites multiplied greatly, becoming exceedingly numerous and
strong, filling the land of Egypt.

• A new king (Pharaoh) came to power in Egypt, who did not know Joseph or
acknowledge his contributions. He feared the growing numbers of the Israelites,
viewing them as a potential threat to Egypt’s security.

• Pharaoh subjected the Israelites to oppressive labor, forcing them to build supply
cities, Pithom and Raamses, for Egypt (Exodus 1:11).

• Despite the harsh treatment, the Israelites continued to multiply, which frustrated
Pharaoh further. The Egyptians intensified their cruelty, making the Israelites' lives
bitter with hard labor in mortar, brick, and fieldwork.

• Pharaoh ordered the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to kill all Hebrew baby
boys at birth but to let the girls live.

• The midwives, however, feared God and disobeyed Pharaoh’s orders, allowing the
boys to live (Exodus 1:17).

• When Pharaoh questioned the midwives, they claimed the Hebrew women gave
birth before the midwives could arrive. God blessed Shiphrah and Puah for their
obedience and gave them households of their own (Exodus 1:20-21).

• Pharaoh commanded all Egyptians to throw every Hebrew baby boy into the Nile
River, escalating his efforts to control the Israelite population (Exodus 1:22).
Chapter 2:1-25 The Birth and Preservation of Moses:

• A man from the tribe of Levi married a Levite woman, and they had a son (later
named Moses). Recognizing that he was a beautiful child, his mother hid him for
three months to protect him from Pharaoh’s decree to kill Hebrew male infants.

• When she could no longer hide him, she placed him in an ark of bulrushes, sealed it
with asphalt and pitch, and set it among the reeds of the Nile River. His sister
watched to see what would happen to him.

• Pharaoh’s daughter found the baby while bathing in the Nile. She felt compassion
upon discovering he was a Hebrew child.

• Moses’ sister approached Pharaoh’s daughter and offered to find a Hebrew nurse for
the baby. Pharaoh’s daughter agreed, and Moses’ own mother was chosen to nurse
him.

• When Moses grew older, he was brought to Pharaoh’s daughter, who adopted him
and named him Moses, meaning “Because I drew him out of the water.”

• As an adult, Moses witnessed an Egyptian beating a Hebrew. In defense of his fellow

Hebrew, Moses killed the Egyptian and buried him in the sand.

• The next day, when Moses tried to mediate between two quarreling Hebrews, one of
them questioned his authority and mentioned the murder. Realizing the deed was
known, and fearing Pharaoh’s wrath, Moses fled to Midian.

• In Midian, Moses encountered seven daughters of a priest (Reuel, also called Jethro)
at a well. He defended them from shepherds and helped water their flock.

• Grateful, Reuel invited Moses to his home, and Moses later married one of his
daughters, Zipporah. They had a son, Gershom, whose name means "I have been a
stranger in a foreign land."
 • While Moses was in Midian, the Israelites in Egypt groaned under their bondage and
cried out to God. God heard their cry, remembered His covenant with Abraham,
Isaac, and Jacob, and prepared to act on their behalf.

Chapter 3:1- Moses and the Burning Bush:

• While tending the flock of Jethro (his father-in-law) near Mount Horeb, Moses
noticed a bush that was on fire but was not consumed. Intrigued, he approached to
investigate (Exodus 3:1-3).

• From the burning bush, God called Moses by name. Moses responded, “Here I am.”
God instructed Moses to remove his sandals because the ground was holy.

• God introduced Himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and Moses hid
his face in reverence and fear (Exodus 3:4-6).

• God revealed He had heard the cries of the Israelites in their bondage and declared
His plan to deliver them from Egypt and bring them to a land “flowing with milk and
honey”—the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and
Jebusites (Exodus 3:7-9).

• God appointed Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Moses expressed doubt
about his ability, asking, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh?” God assured him
of His presence, promising that Moses would worship God on that mountain after
the deliverance (Exodus 3:10-12).

• When Moses asked what name he should give to the Israelites when they asked who
sent him, God said, “I AM WHO I AM.” He instructed Moses to tell the Israelites, “I
AM has sent me to you” (Exodus 3:13-14).

• God told Moses to gather the elders of Israel and share the plan of deliverance,
promising to bring them out of Egypt’s affliction.
 • Moses was to approach Pharaoh with the request for the Israelites to go into the
wilderness to worship God. God foretold that Pharaoh would resist, but He would
strike Egypt with wonders, and the Israelites would leave with favor and plunder
from the Egyptians (Exodus 3:15-22).

EXODUS 4:1-31 Miraculous Signs for Pharaoh

Moses' Reluctance and God's Signs (Exodus 4:1-9)

• Moses expresses concern that the Israelites will not believe him when he tells them
that God has sent him. He doubts his ability to convince them.

• God gives Moses three signs to perform to prove his divine mission:
• The Staff Turns to a Serpent: Moses throws his staff on the ground, and it becomes a
serpent. When Moses picks it up, it turns back into a staff.

• Moses places his hand in his bosom, and when he pulls it out, it is leprous. When
he puts it back, it is healed.

• If the first two signs are not enough, Moses can pour water from the Nile river and
pour it on the dry land, and it will turn into blood on the dry land.

(Exodus 4:10-13)

• Moses continues to hesitate, citing his lack of eloquence and being "slow of speech
and slow of tongue." He fears he won’t be able to speak to Pharaoh effectively.

• God reassures Moses that He made man's mouth, the mute, the deaf, the seeing,
or the blind. and will help him speak. He reminds Moses that He is in control of the
situation.

• Moses, still reluctant, asks God to send someone else.

God’s Anger and Appointment of Aaron (Exodus 4:14-17)

 • God becomes angry with Moses' continued reluctance but assures him that his
brother Aaron will be his spokesman.

• God appoints Aaron to speak to the people of Israel and to Pharaoh on Moses'
behalf.
• God gives Moses the command to take the staff (which was turned into a serpent)
and perform signs and wonders in Egypt.

Moses Returns to Egypt (Exodus 4:18-23)

• Moses returns to Jethro, his father-in-law, and asks for permission to return to Egypt
to free the Israelites.

• God speaks to Moses, telling him that those who sought his life (the Pharaoh) are
now dead. He is to go and tell Pharaoh to let the Israelites go.

• God reminds Moses that Pharaoh will not let the people go without a mighty hand,
but God will stretch out His hand and strike Egypt with all the wonders He will
perform.

• On the way back to Egypt, at a place where they stopped for the night, the Lord
sought to kill Moses.

• Moses' wife, Zipporah, takes a sharp stone, circumcises their son, and touches
Moses' feet with the foreskin, saying, "Surely you are a husband of blood to me." This
act appeased God, and Moses was spared.

• The Lord tells Aaron to meet Moses in the wilderness. Aaron obeys and meets
Moses at the mountain of God.

• Moses and Aaron come together and share what God has told them. Moses tells
Aaron about the signs and wonders that they are to perform before Pharaoh.
 • Moses and Aaron gather the elders of Israel, and Aaron speaks to them. He
performs the signs, and the people believe that God has visited them and is
concerned about their suffering.

• At this point, Moses is 80 years old (Exodus 7:7).

• Aaron is 83 years old (Exodus 7:7).
• Mount Horeb (Sinai): Where Moses encounters God in the burning bush.
• Midian: Where Moses was living in exile and where he meets Zipporah and Jethro.

Exodus 5:1-23 First Encounter with Pharaoh

Moses and Aaron Confront Pharaoh (Exodus 5:1-2)

• Moses and Aaron approach Pharaoh and deliver the message from God, saying,
"Thus says the Lord God of Israel: 'Let My people go, that they may hold a feast to Me
in the wilderness.'"

• Pharaoh responds by questioning who the Lord is and refuses to let the Israelites
go. He says, "Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not
know the Lord, nor will I let Israel go."

Pharaoh Increases the Israelites' Burden (Exodus 5:3-14)

• Despite Pharaoh's refusal, Moses and Aaron continue to ask for the release of the
Israelites to allow them to worship God in the wilderness.

• Pharaoh reacts harshly by accusing the Israelites of being lazy and refusing their
request. He orders that the Israelites be given even more difficult tasks, increasing
their workload.

• Pharaoh commands the taskmasters and officers to no longer supply the Israelites
with straw for making bricks but to force them to gather their own straw while still
maintaining the same brick quotas. This makes their labor much more difficult.
 • The Israelite overseers, who are in charge of the laborers, are beaten because they
cannot meet their brick quotas. They cry out to Pharaoh, asking why they are being
treated this way, but Pharaoh remains unmoved.

The Israelite Elders’ Complaint (Exodus 5:15-21)

• The Israelite overseers go to Pharaoh to plead for relief, but he dismisses them,
telling them they are lazy. The situation worsens as their workload becomes
unbearable.

• The Israelite leaders go to Moses and Aaron, blaming them for making their situation
worse. They accuse Moses and Aaron of stirring up trouble with Pharaoh, which has
led to increased suffering.

Moses' Prayer to God (Exodus 5:22-23)

• Moses' Complaint to God: Moses, feeling rejected and defeated, goes before God
and questions why He sent him to Egypt if things are only getting worse for the
Israelites. Moses expresses his frustration that Pharaoh is making life harder for the
people and that God has not yet delivered them.

Exodus chapter 6:1-30 God Renews His Promise to Israel

God’s Assurance to Moses (Exodus 6:1-9)

• After Moses' complaint to God in Chapter 5, God speaks to Moses again and
reassures him that Pharaoh will indeed let the Israelites go, but only after God
performs mighty acts in Egypt.

• God tells Moses, "Now you shall see what I will do to Pharaoh." God will stretch out
His hand and bring Israel out of Egypt "with a strong hand and an outstretched arm."

• God reminds Moses that He appeared to the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, and
Jacob) as God Almighty (El Shaddai), but His name "LORD" (Yahweh) had not been
fully known to them.

• God recalls His covenant with the patriarchs to give them the land of Canaan and
affirms His intention to deliver the Israelites.
 • God tells Moses to speak to the Israelites and tell them that God will deliver them
from slavery and give them the Promised Land. However, the Israelites do not listen
to Moses due to their broken spirits and harsh labor.

Moses' Objection to God’s Command (Exodus 6:10-13)

• Despite God's reassurances, Moses expresses concern about his ability to convince
Pharaoh and the Israelites. He fears that his earlier failure has undermined his
credibility.

• God commands Moses to go to Pharaoh once again and demand the release of the
Israelites. God, however, reassures Moses that He will perform mighty acts of
judgment, and Pharaoh will ultimately relent.

Genealogy of Moses and Aaron (Exodus 6:14-27)

• The sons of Reuben, the firstborn of Israel: Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi; these
are the families of Reuben.

• The sons of Simeon were: Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar, and Shaul the son of
a Canaanite woman; these are the families of Simeon.

• These are the names of the sons of Levi according to their generations: Gershon,
Kohath, and Merari; and the years of the life of Levi were one hundred and thirty-
seven.

• The sons of Gershon were Libni and Shimi, according to their families.

• And the sons of Kohath were Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel; and the years of the
life of Kohath were one hundred and thirty-three.

• The sons of Merari were Mahli and Mushi; these are the families of Levi according to
their generations.
 • Now Amram took for himself Jochebed, his father's sister, as wife; and she bore him
Aaron and Moses; and the years of the life of Amram were one hundred and thirty-
seven.

• The sons of Izhar were Korah, Nepheg, and Zichri.

• The sons of Uzziel were Mishael, Elzaphan, and Zithri.

• Aaron took to himself Elisheba, daughter of Amminadab, sister of Nahshon, as wife;

and she bore him Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar.

• The sons of Korah were Assir, Elkanah, and Abiasaph; these are the families of the
Korahites.

• Eleazar, Aaron's son, took for himself one of the daughters of Putiel as wife; and she
bore him Phinehas. These are the heads of the father’s houses of the Levites
according to their families.

Moses and Aaron: Both are descendants of Levi, from the family of Kohath. Amram, their
father, took Jochebed as his wife, and they had Moses and Aaron.

Exodus chapter 7-11 The 10 plagues

1. The Plague of Blood (Exodus 7:14-25)

• God instructs Moses and Aaron to go before Pharaoh and tell him that the river Nile
will turn to blood if he refuses to let the Israelites go.

• Aaron stretches out his staff over the waters of Egypt, and the water in the Nile
River, including in its tributaries, ponds, and reservoirs, turns to blood. The fish die,
and the water becomes undrinkable.
 • Pharaoh’s magicians replicate this miracle with their own magic, but Pharaoh’s
heart remains hardened. He refuses to let the Israelites go, and the plague lasts for
seven days.

2. The Plague of Frogs (Exodus 8:1-15)

• Moses and Aaron are instructed by God to tell Pharaoh that if he does not let the
Israelites go, the land will be overrun with frogs.

• Aaron stretches out his staff, and frogs come up from the Nile, covering the land of
Egypt, entering homes, ovens, and kneading bowls.

• Pharaoh begs Moses and Aaron to pray to God to remove the frogs, promising to let
the Israelites go. Moses prays, and the frogs die, but Pharaoh’s heart is hardened
again, and he does not keep his promise.

3. The Plague of Lice (Exodus 8:16-19)

• God commands Moses to tell Aaron to strike the dust of the earth, causing it to
become lice throughout all of Egypt.

• The dust of the land turns into lice, affecting people and animals. The magicians try
to replicate this but fail, and they acknowledge that it is "the finger of God."

• Despite the failure of his magicians, Pharaoh’s heart remains hard, and he refuses to
let the Israelites go.

4. The Plague of Flies (Exodus 8:20-32)

• God tells Moses to warn Pharaoh that He will send swarms of flies upon Egypt if
Pharaoh refuses to let the Israelites go.

• Swarms of flies infest the land, but the land of Goshen, where the Israelites live, is
spared. The flies cause devastation in Egypt, and Pharaoh asks Moses to pray for the
removal of the flies, promising to let the people go.

• After the flies are removed, Pharaoh’s heart is again hardened, and he does not fulfill
his promise.
5. The Plague of Livestock Disease (Exodus 9:1-7)

• God tells Moses to go to Pharaoh and announce that all the livestock of the
Egyptians will die if Pharaoh does not let the Israelites go.

• A severe disease strikes the Egyptian livestock (horses, donkeys, camels, cattle,
sheep, and goats), causing them to die. However, none of the Israelites’ livestock is
affected.

• Pharaoh investigates and finds that none of the Israelites' animals are harmed, yet
his heart is hardened, and he refuses to release the Israelites.

6. The Plague of Boils (Exodus 9:8-12)

• Moses and Aaron are instructed to take handfuls of soot from a furnace and throw it
into the air in Pharaoh’s presence.

• The soot turns to fine dust and causes painful boils to break out on humans and
animals throughout Egypt.

• Pharaoh’s magicians cannot stand before Moses due to the boils, but Pharaoh’s
heart remains hard, and he does not let the Israelites go.

7. The Plague of Hail (Exodus 9:13-35)

• God tells Moses to warn Pharaoh that a devastating hailstorm will strike Egypt, and
anyone left outside will perish.

• Hail, mixed with fire (possibly lightning), falls upon Egypt, destroying crops,
livestock, and anything left outside. However, the land of Goshen, where the
Israelites live, is spared.

• Pharaoh acknowledges his sin and asks Moses to pray for him. Moses prays, and the
hail stops. However, Pharaoh once again hardens his heart and refuses to let the
Israelites go.

8. The Plague of Locusts (Exodus 10:1-20)

 • God commands Moses to tell Pharaoh that if he refuses to let the Israelites go, a
swarm of locusts will come and consume everything that was not destroyed by the
hail.

• Locusts cover the land of Egypt, eating every remaining plant and tree, leaving
nothing green in Egypt.

• Pharaoh asks Moses to pray for the removal of the locusts, promising to let the
Israelites go. Moses prays, and the locusts are driven away, but Pharaoh’s heart is
hardened once again, and he does not keep his promise.

9. The Plague of Darkness (Exodus 10:21-29)

• God tells Moses to stretch his hand toward the sky, and a thick darkness will cover
Egypt.

• A supernatural darkness envelops Egypt for three days, so intense that it could be
felt. The Egyptians cannot see one another or move from their places, but the
Israelites have light where they live.

• Pharaoh offers to let the men go, but insists the women and children stay. Moses
refuses, saying that they must all go to worship God. Pharaoh becomes angry and
threatens Moses with death if he returns.

10. The Plague of the Death of the Firstborn (Exodus 11:1-10; 12:29-30)

• God instructs Moses that the final plague will be the death of all the firstborn in
Egypt, from Pharaoh’s firstborn to the firstborn of the animals.

• At midnight, God strikes down all the firstborn in Egypt, including Pharaoh’s firstborn
son. There is loud wailing throughout Egypt, as no house is spared from the death of
a firstborn.

• This final plague causes Pharaoh to urgently call for Moses and Aaron. He finally
agrees to let the Israelites go, along with their flocks and herds.

Exodus chapter 12:1-51 The Passover Instituted

Instructions for the Passover (Exodus 12:1-13)

God speaks to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt.

• God commands the Israelites to prepare for the first Passover, which marks their
deliverance from Egypt.

• The Israelites are instructed to take a male lamb without blemish, a year old, and
sacrifice it on the 14th day of the month (Abib). The lamb is to be slaughtered at
twilight.

• The blood of the lamb is to be placed on the doorposts and lintel of each Israelite
home. This will serve as a sign for God to "pass over" that house, sparing it from the
plague of the firstborn.

• The flesh of the lamb must be eaten on that night; roasted with fire, and it should be
eaten with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. No leftovers are to remain until
morning. Anything left over must be burned.

• It should not be eaten raw, nor boiled at all with water, but roasted in fire—its head
with its legs and its entrails.

• And they shall eat it with a belt on their waist, their sandals on their feet, and their
staff in their hand. So, they shall eat it in haste. It is the Lord’s Passover.

The Institution of the Feast of Unleavened Bread (Exodus 12:14-20)

• The 14th of Abib marks the beginning of the Passover festival. The Israelites are
instructed to keep this day as a feast to the Lord for generations to come.

• For seven days, the Israelites are to eat unleavened bread and remove all leaven
(yeast) from their homes. This signifies their hasty departure from Egypt, where
there was no time to let the bread rise.

• Seven days you shall eat unleavened bread. On the first day you shall remove leaven
from your houses. For whoever eats leavened bread from the first day until the
 seventh day, that person shall be cut off from Israel, whether he is a stranger or a
native of the land.

• On the first day there shall be a holy convocation, and on the seventh day there shall
be a holy convocation for you. No manner of work shall be done on them; but that
which everyone must eat—that only may be prepared by you.

• In the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month in the evening, you shall eat
unleavened bread, until the twenty-first day of the month at evening.

• Moses gives the instructions to the elders of Israel about the Passover. The blood of
the lamb on the doorposts will protect the Israelites from the coming plague.

• At midnight, the Lord strikes down all the firstborn in Egypt, both human and animal.
This includes Pharaoh’s firstborn son. There is a great cry in Egypt, for there is no
house without someone dead.

• Pharaoh summons Moses and Aaron in the middle of the night, urging them to leave
Egypt immediately, along with all their people and possessions.

The Exodus of the Israelites (Exodus 12:31-42)

• Pharaoh commands the Israelites to leave Egypt, taking their families, livestock,
and possessions with them. The Egyptians urge them to go quickly, afraid that they
will all die due to the plague.

• The Israelites take their dough, unleavened bread, and knead it into their kneading
bowls. They journey out of Egypt, a mixed multitude (including non-Israelites who
joined them) accompanying them.

• Then the children of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Succoth. About 600,000
men, not including women and children, leave Egypt. The total number is much
higher when including families.
 • The Israelites had lived in Egypt for 430 years. This marks the beginning of their
journey to freedom.

The First Passover Observance (Exodus 12:43-51)

• God provides further instructions regarding the observance of the Passover. The
lamb must be eaten in one house, and none of its flesh should be taken outside. No
foreigners are allowed to partake unless they are circumcised.

• All the Israelites do as the Lord commanded. Not one word of the commandment is
left unfulfilled.

• The Israelites observe the first Passover in Egypt, which marks a major turning point
in their history.

• Consecration of the Firstborn (Exodus 12:50-51)

Exodus chapter 13:1-22 The Firstborn Consecrated

Sanctification of the Firstborn (Exodus 13:1-2)

• God commands Moses to sanctify every firstborn male among the Israelites. Every
firstborn male human and animal belongs to God, as a reminder of the Lord’s
deliverance of the firstborn of Israel during the final plague in Egypt.

• This act serves as a perpetual sign to Israel of God’s mercy and deliverance.

Feast of Unleavened Bread (Exodus 13:3-10)

• Moses instructs the people to observe the Feast of Unleavened Bread, which begins
on the 15th day of the first month (Abib), following the Passover. They must eat
unleavened bread for seven days to commemorate their hasty departure from Egypt
when there was no time to let the bread rise.

• The people are to teach their children about the significance of the Feast of
Unleavened Bread, explaining that it commemorates their departure from Egypt,
where they were slaves.
 • The people are to observe this feast annually, as a lasting ordinance, and they must
not eat leavened bread during this time.

Consecration of the Firstborn (Exodus 13:11-16)

• When the Israelites enter the Promised Land, they are instructed to dedicate the
firstborn of both their children and their animals to God. If the firstborn is an animal
that is clean (such as a lamb or a calf), it is to be sacrificed. If the firstborn is an
unclean animal, such as a donkey, it must be redeemed by sacrificing a lamb in its
place.

• If the firstborn son is born, the parents must redeem him by offering a sacrifice,
typically a lamb or a goat. If they do not redeem the child, it is considered an act of
disobedience. The practice of redeeming the firstborn will become an important
symbolic act, reminding the Israelites of God’s intervention during the final plague in
Egypt.

• The act of redeeming the firstborn represents the redemption of the entire nation
from Egypt. The people are constantly reminded of God’s power and grace in saving
them.

The Pillar of Cloud and Fire (Exodus 13:17-22)

• After Pharaoh releases the Israelites, they begin their journey out of Egypt. God does
not lead them by the shortest route through the land of the Philistines, which is the
way to the north, because He knows that they might become discouraged if they
face war. Instead, He leads them on a longer, safer route through the wilderness of
the Red Sea.

• God leads them by a pillar of cloud during the day to guide them, and a pillar of fire
at night to provide light for the journey. This cloud and fire are visible manifestations
of God's presence and protection over the Israelites.

• The Israelites carry the bones of Joseph with them, as Joseph had requested before
his death (see Genesis 50:25). This act fulfills Joseph’s oath that his remains should
be brought back to the Promised Land.
 • They took their journey from Succoth and camped in Etham at the edge of the
wilderness

Exodus 14:1-31 The Red Sea Crossing

Divine Instruction and Strategic Positioning:

• Location: God commands Moses to lead the Israelites to camp before Pi Hahiroth,
between Migdol and the sea, opposite Baal Zephon. This strategic positioning is
intended to provoke Pharaoh's pursuit, setting the stage for a divine demonstration
of power.

• Pharaoh's Pursuit: Upon realizing the Israelites have fled, Pharaoh's heart is
hardened, leading him to mobilize his army, including 600 choice chariots, to
recapture them.

• Israelites' Fear and Complaints: Seeing the Egyptian army approaching, the
Israelites are terrified and cry out to the Lord. They express regret over leaving Egypt,
preferring slavery over death in the wilderness.

• Moses' Assurance: Moses reassures the people, urging them to stand firm and
witness the Lord's salvation, promising that the Egyptians they see today will be
seen no more.

• Parting of the Red Sea: God instructs Moses to stretch out his hand over the sea,
causing it to divide. The Israelites cross on dry ground, with walls of water on either
side.

• Egyptians' Pursuit and Destruction: The Egyptians pursue the Israelites into the
sea. However, God intervenes by causing their chariot wheels to become difficult to
drive, leading them to realize that the Lord is fighting for Israel.

• Return of the Waters: At Moses' command, God causes the waters to return,
engulfing the Egyptian army and ensuring Israel's deliverance.
 • Israel's Reverence and Faith: Witnessing the destruction of the Egyptians, the
Israelites fear the Lord and place their trust in Him and in Moses, His servant.

Exodus 15:1-27 the song of Moses

• The Song of Moses and the Israelites:

• Location: Near the Red Sea, following their deliverance.

• Event: Moses, along with the children of Israel, composes a song to the Lord,
celebrating their escape from Pharaoh's army. The song praises God's strength,
salvation, and triumphant victory over their enemies.

• Miriam's Song: Miriam: Identified as Aaron's sister and a prophetess.

• Event: Miriam leads the women in dancing and singing, echoing the sentiments of
Moses's song, reinforcing the communal joy and thanksgiving.

• The Bitter Waters at Marah:

• Location: Marah, a place in the Wilderness of Shur.

• Event: After three days without finding water, the Israelites arrive at Marah, only to
find the water there undrinkable due to its bitterness. The people complain to Moses
about their plight.

• God instructs Moses to throw a piece of wood into the water, which miraculously
sweetens it, making it drinkable. Here, God establishes a statute and ordinance,
testing the people's obedience.

• Promise: God assures that if the Israelites diligently heed His voice and keep His
commandments, He will not afflict them with the diseases that befell the Egyptians,
declaring Himself as their healer.
 • Arrival at Elim a desert oasis: The Israelites reach Elim, where they find twelve wells
of water and seventy palm trees, providing them with rest and sustenance after
their trials.

Exodus 16;1-36 Bread from Heaven

Departure from Elim and Arrival in the Wilderness of Sin: The Israelites journey from
Elim to the Wilderness of Sin, situated between Elim and Mount Sinai.

• Timeframe: This occurs on the fifteenth day of the second month after their exodus
from Egypt.

• Complaints About Food Scarcity: Facing hunger, they lament to Moses and Aaron,
expressing a desire to have remained in Egypt where they had ample food.

• Promise of Divine Provision: God promises to provide meat in the evening (quail)
and bread in the morning (manna), intending to test their obedience to His laws.

• Appearance of Quail and Manna: Quail cover the camp, providing meat in the
evening.

• Morning Provision: A fine, white, coriander-seed-like substance (manna) appears

with the morning dew.

• Instructions for Gathering Manna: Each person is to collect an omer

(approximately one-tenth of an ephah) per day, sufficient for their needs.

• Sabbath Provision: On the sixth day, they gather twice as much to observe the
Sabbath rest on the seventh day, during which no manna will be provided.

• Observance of the Sabbath: The Israelites are instructed to rest on the seventh day,
refraining from gathering manna.
 • Description and Preservation of Manna: Manna resembles white coriander seed
and tastes like wafers made with honey.

• Testimony for Future Generations: A portion of manna is to be preserved in a pot

before the Lord as a testimony for future generations of God's provision during their
wilderness journey.

• And the children of Israel ate manna forty years, until they came to an inhabited
land; they ate manna until they came to the border of the land of Canaan.

Exodus 17:1-16 Water from the Rock

Verses 1–7: Water from the Rock at Rephidim

Key Events:
• The children of Israel journey by stages through the Wilderness of Sin, as
commanded by the Lord.

• They camp at Rephidim, but there is no water for the people to drink.

• The people contend with Moses, demanding water, saying, “Give us water, that we
may drink.”

• Moses responds, “Why do you contend with me? Why do you tempt the Lord?”

• The people complain and murmur, questioning whether God is with them or not.

• Moses cries out to the Lord, fearing the people might stone him.

God instructs Moses to:

• Take some of the elders of Israel.

• Take his rod (the same one he struck the Nile with).

• Go to Horeb (another name for Mount Sinai).

 • Strike the rock at Horeb, and water will come out of it.

• Moses names the place Massah (meaning tempted) and Meribah (meaning
contention) due to the Israelites testing the Lord and quarreling.

• Rephidim – A place in the wilderness, lacking water.

• Horeb – Sacred Mountain, associated with the presence of God (same as Mt. Sinai).

Verses 8–16: Victory Over Amalek

Key Events:

• The Amalekites come and fight with Israel at Rephidim.

• Moses tells Joshua to choose men and go out to battle.

• Moses goes to the top of a hill with Aaron and Hur, holding the rod of God.

• As long as Moses' hands are raised, Israel prevails; when he lowers them, Amalek
gains the upper hand.

• Aaron and Hur support Moses' hands—one on each side—so his hands remain
steady until sunset.

• Joshua defeats Amalek with the sword.

• Moses builds an altar and names it “The-Lord-Is-My-Banner” (Hebrew: YHWH-

Nissi).

• The Lord declares He will have war with Amalek from generation to generation.

• Amalek – Descendants of Esau; first enemy to attack Israel in the wilderness.

Exodus 18:1-27 Jethro’s Advice

Verses 1–6: Jethro Visits Moses

 Key Events:

• Jethro, the priest of Midian and Moses’ father-in-law, hears about all that God had
done for Moses and for Israel, especially how the Lord brought them out of Egypt.

• Jethro brings Zipporah (Moses’ wife) and Moses’ two sons back to him in the
wilderness.

Key People:

• Jethro – Also called Reuel in earlier chapters (Exodus 2:18); priest of Midian, Moses’
father-in-law.

• Moses – God's appointed leader of Israel.

• Zipporah – Moses’ wife; previously returned to her father (possibly during the
plagues or journey).

• Gershom – Moses’ first son, name means “I have been a stranger in a foreign land.”

• Eliezer – Moses’ second son, name means “The God of my father was my help.”

Verses 7–12: Jethro Acknowledges God

Key Events:

• Moses goes out to greet Jethro, bows, and kisses him. They talk about all the things
God had done to deliver Israel.

• Jethro rejoices and declares, “Now I know that the Lord is greater than all the gods.”

• Jethro offers a burnt offering and sacrifices to God, and Aaron and the elders of
Israel eat a sacred meal with him.

Verses 13–23: Jethro’s Advice to Moses

Key Events:

• The next day, Moses judges the people from morning until evening.
 • Jethro observes and questions the workload, asking why Moses is doing it all alone.

• Moses explains the people come to him for God’s laws and judgment.

• Jethro advises Moses to delegate authority:

• Teach the people God’s statutes and laws.

• Select able men: those who fear God, love truth, and hate covetousness.

• Appoint them as rulers over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens.

• Let them judge smaller matters; let Moses handle the major cases.

Verses 24–27: Moses Implements the Advice

Key Events:

• Moses listens to Jethro’s counsel and follows it.

• He appoints capable men as leaders/judges over the people.

• Jethro returns to his own land after this visit.

Exodus 19:1-25 Israel at Mount Sinai

Verses 1–2: Arrival at Mount Sinai

Key Events:

• In the third month after the children of Israel left Egypt, they come to the Wilderness
of Sinai.

• They set up camp at the base of Mount Sinai (also known as Horeb).

• Israel camps “before the mountain,” indicating the beginning of a significant

moment in salvation history.
 Verses 3–6: God’s Covenant Proposal

Key Events:

• Moses ascends the mountain, and God calls to him from the mountain.

God reminds Moses of:

• What He did to the Egyptians.

• How He “bore them on eagles' wings” and brought them to Himself.

If Israel obeys His voice and keeps His covenant:

• They will be His special treasure above all people.

• They will be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.

Verses 7–9: The People's Response & God’s Presence Promised

Key Events:

• Moses relays the Lord’s message to the elders and people.

• The people respond: “All that the Lord has spoken we will do.”

• God tells Moses He will come in a dense cloud so the people will hear Him speaking
and believe Moses.

• This is God’s way of confirming Moses’ leadership publicly.

Verses 10–15: Preparation for God’s Appearance

Key Events:

• The Lord instructs Moses to sanctify the people for two days:

• Wash their clothes.

 • Be ready by the third day, for on that day God will come down on Mount Sinai in sight
of the people.

• A boundary must be set around the mountain.

• Anyone who touches the mountain will be put to death, even animals.

• They are to abstain from sexual relations during this time of consecration.

Verses 16–25: God Descends on Mount Sinai

Key Events:

• On the third day, there is thunder, lightning, a thick cloud, and the sound of a
trumpet, causing the people to tremble.

• Mount Sinai is completely in smoke, because the Lord descended upon it in fire.

• The whole mountain quakes greatly.

• The sound of the trumpet grows louder and louder.

• Moses speaks, and God answers with a voice.

• God calls Moses up again and warns:

• Don’t let the people break through or touch the mountain, or they will die.

• Only Moses and Aaron are allowed up.

• Moses descends to warn the people again.

Exodus 20:1-26 The Ten Commandments

The Ten Commandments (Verses 1–17)

1. You shall have no other gods before Me.

2. You shall not make for yourself a carved image…”
 3. Do Not Take the Lord’s Name in Vain

4. Remember the Sabbath Day and keep it holy

5. “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land
which the Lord your God is giving you.

6. You shall not murder.

7. You shall not commit adultery.

8. You shall not steal.

9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.

10. You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s
wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor
anything that is your neighbor’s.”

Verses 18–21: The People Fear God’s Presence

Key Events:

• The people witness the thunder, lightning, trumpet sound, and smoke on
Mount Sinai.

• They tremble with fear and stand afar off.

They tell Moses:

• You speak with us, and we will hear; but let not God speak with us, lest
we die.”

• Moses tells them not to fear in terms of destruction, but to maintain a

holy fear reverence that keeps them from sin.

Verses 22–26: Additional Instructions on Worship

Key Events:
 • God instructs Moses on how altars should be made:

• You shall sacrifice on it your burnt offerings and your peace offerings,
your sheep and your oxen. In every place where I record My name, I will
come to you, and I will bless you.

• And if you make Me an altar of stone, you shall not build it of hewn stone;
for if you use your tool on it, you have profaned it.

• Nor shall you go up by steps to My altar, that your nakedness may not be
exposed on it.’

• Moses is around 80 years old; Aaron is about 83 (Exodus 7:7).

Exodus 21:1-36 The Law Concerning Servants

Laws Regarding Hebrew Servants (vv. 1–11)

• A Hebrew servant serves for six years; in the seventh year, he must be set
free without payment (v. 2).

• If the servant came single, he leaves single; if married, his wife goes with
him (v. 3).

• If his master gave him a wife and he has children with her, the wife and
children stay with the master, unless the master sets them free.

• If the servant chooses to stay out of love for his master and family, he is
formally bound for life — marked by boring his ear with an awl (vv. 5–6).

Special laws for female servants (vv. 7–11):

• She is not to be treated like a male slave.

• If taken as a wife, she must receive proper rights: food, clothing, and
marriage rights.
 • If these are denied, she is to go free without paying money.

Laws Regarding Violence and Personal Injury (vv. 12–27)

Capital and Civil Crimes:

• Murder → punishable by death (v. 12)

• Manslaughter → provision of cities of refuge (v. 13)

• Premeditated murder → no mercy, even if at the altar (v. 14)

• Striking or cursing parents → death penalty (vv. 15, 17)

• Kidnapping (for slavery) → death (v. 16)

Fights and Injuries:

• If two people fight and one is injured, the one who caused the injury must
pay for lost time and provide healing (v. 19).

• If a master hits a servant and the servant dies, the master is to be

punished (v. 20).

• If the servant survives a few days, the master is not punished, as the
servant is considered his property (v. 21).

• If a master injures a servant’s eye or tooth, the servant must be freed (vv.
26–27).

Laws on Injury to Pregnant Women and Others (vv. 22–25)

• If men fight and hurt a pregnant woman, causing her to give birth
prematurely:

• If no harm follows: the offender pays a fine.

• If there is serious injury or death: the punishment is "life for life, eye for
eye…" (vv. 23–25).
 • This "law of retaliation" (Latin: lex talionis) was meant to ensure fair
justice, not personal revenge.

Laws Regarding Animal Responsibility (vv. 28–36)

Ox Goring:

• If an ox gores a person to death, the ox is stoned (v. 28).

• If the ox had a history of aggression and the owner was warned but did
nothing, and someone dies — the owner is held responsible, possibly
punished by death or ransom (vv. 29–30).

• If an ox gores a servant, the owner pays 30 shekels of silver to the master

(v. 32) — this price is later echoed in the betrayal of Jesus (Matthew
26:15).

Pit Responsibility:

• If someone opens or leaves a pit uncovered and an ox or donkey falls in,

he shall give money to their owner, but the dead animal shall be his.

• If one man’s ox hurts another’s, so that it dies, then they shall sell the live
ox and divide the money from it; and the dead ox they shall also divide.

• Or if it was known that the ox tended to thrust in time past, and its owner
has not kept it confined, he shall surely pay ox for ox, and the dead animal
shall be his own.

Exodus 22:1-31 Responsibility for Property

Laws on Theft and Property Damage (vv. 1–15)

Theft Restitution:

• Stealing an ox or sheep requires restitution:

• Five oxen for one ox, four sheep for one sheep (v. 1).
 • If a thief is caught breaking in at night and killed, there is no guilt for the
homeowner (v. 2).

• If theft is proven, the thief must pay double (v. 4).

Property Destruction:

• If someone lets his animal graze in another man’s field or vineyard, he

must repay with the best of his own (v. 5).

• If a fire breaks out and burns stacked grain or fields, the one who started
it must make restitution (v. 6).

Responsibility of a Keeper:

If someone entrusts property to another person:

• If it is stolen, the thief must repay.

• If it’s lost or damaged, the matter goes before the judges, and if innocent,
the keeper is not liable.

• If an animal dies or is hurt, the truth must be verified by oath or witness

(vv. 7–15).

Laws on Social and Moral Responsibility (vv. 16–31)

Seduction and Marriage:

• If a man seduces a virgin who is not betrothed:

• He must pay a bride-price and marry her.

• If the father refuses the marriage, the man must still pay the dowry (vv.
16–17).

Capital Crimes (vv. 18–20):

 • Sorcery (witchcraft) → Punishable by death (v. 18).

• Bestiality → Punishable by death (v. 19).

• Idolatry (sacrificing to other gods) → Punishable by death (v. 20).

Protection of the Vulnerable (vv. 21–27):

• Do not oppress a stranger (you were strangers in Egypt).

• Do not afflict widows or orphans: If they cry out to God, He will hear and
act in wrath (vv. 22–24).

• If you lend money to the poor: Do not act like a creditor or charge interest
(v. 25).

• If you take a poor man’s garment as collateral, return it before sundown

— it may be all he has for warmth (vv. 26–27).

Reverence Toward God and Leaders (vv. 28–30):

• Do not revile God or curse a ruler of your people (v. 28).

• Offer your first fruits and firstborn to God (vv. 29–30).

• Let the firstborn animal stay with its mother seven days, then give it to the
Lord (v. 30).

Holiness Command (v. 31):

• “You shall be holy men to Me.”

• Israelites must not eat meat torn by beasts in the field — throw it to the
dogs (unclean).

Exodus 23:1-33 Justice for All

Justice and Fairness in Society (vv. 1–9)

Commands:

• No false reports; do not join hands with the wicked or become a

malicious witness (v. 1).

• Do not follow a crowd to do evil or pervert justice in a dispute (v. 2).

• Do not show partiality to a poor man in a dispute (v. 3).

• Return your enemy’s stray ox or donkey (v. 4) — an act of unexpected

kindness.

• If you see your enemy's donkey struggling, help, even if it belongs to

someone who hates you (v. 5).

• Justice must be impartial — don’t oppress the poor in court (v. 6).

• Keep far from false charges, and do not kill the innocent (v. 7).

• Do not take bribes; they blind justice (v. 8).

• Do not oppress a stranger — remember you were strangers in Egypt (v. 9).

• God demands honesty, integrity, and compassion, even to enemies and

outsiders.

Sabbath and Sacred Times (vv. 10–13)

Land & Rest:

• Six years you shall sow the land and gather its produce.

• In the seventh year, let the land rest (Sabbath year) — the poor and
animals may eat what grows (vv. 10–11).
 Weekly Sabbath:

• Six days work, seventh day rest — for servants, foreigners, and animals to
be refreshed (v. 12).

• Do not mention the names of other gods or let them be heard from your
lips (v. 13) — protect spiritual purity.

Three Annual Feasts (vv. 14–19)

Pilgrimage Feasts:

• Three times you shall keep a feast to Me in the year:

• You shall keep the Feast of Unleavened Bread (you shall eat unleavened
bread seven days, as I commanded you, at the time appointed in the
month of Abib,

• and the Feast of Harvest, the first fruits of your labor which you have
sown in the field; and the Feast of Ingathering at the end of the year, when
you have gathered in the fruit of your labor from the field.

• Three times in the year all your males shall appear before the Lord God.

• You shall not offer the blood of My sacrifice with leavened bread; nor shall
the fat of My sacrifice remain until morning.

• The first of the first fruits of your land you shall bring into the house of the
Lord your God. You should not boil a young goat in its mother’s milk.

Promise of the Angel and the Conquest (vv. 20–33)

God's Angel of Guidance:

• God sends “My Angel” before Israel to keep them and bring them to the
promised place (v. 20).

• They must obey His voice — He will not pardon transgressions, for God’s
name is in Him (v. 21).
 • This "Angel" is often interpreted as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ.

The Land Promised:

• God will drive out the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Canaanites, Hivites,
and Jebusites (v. 23).

• They must not bow to or serve the gods of the land but utterly overthrow
them (vv. 24–25).

Blessings Promised:

• God promises to:

• Bless their bread and water (v. 25).

• Remove sickness (v. 25).

• Prevent miscarriages and barrenness (v. 26).

• Fulfill their days (long life).

Gradual Victory:

• God will drive out the inhabitants little by little to prevent the land from
becoming desolate (vv. 29–30).

Boundaries of the Land (v. 31):

• From the Red Sea to the Sea of the Philistines, and from the desert to the
River (Euphrates).

• Make no covenant with them or their gods (vv. 32–33).

• Allowing them to remain may cause spiritual compromise.

Exodus 24:1-18 Israel Affirms the Covenant

God Calls Moses and the Leaders (vv. 1–2)

• God tells Moses: “Come up to the Lord, you and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and
seventy of the elders of Israel.”

• They are to worship from afar, but only Moses is allowed to approach closely.

• The others shall not come near.

Moses Declares the Covenant (vv. 3–8)

• Moses tells the people all the words and judgments of the Lord.

• The people respond: “All the words which the Lord has said we will do.” (v. 3)

• Moses writes down all the laws.

• He builds an altar at the base of Mount Sinai and sets up twelve pillars for the twelve
tribes of Israel (v. 4).

Offerings: Young men offer burnt offerings and peace offerings of oxen to the Lord (v. 5).

Blood of the Covenant:

• Moses collects half of the blood in basins and sprinkles half on the altar (v. 6).

• He reads the Book of the Covenant aloud.

• The people repeat: “All that the Lord has said we will do, and be obedient.” (v. 7)

• Moses sprinkles the remaining blood on the people, saying: “This is the blood of the
covenant…” (v. 8)

Leaders See God’s Glory (vv. 9–11)

• Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and the seventy elders go up and see the God of Israel
(v. 10).
 • Under God's feet was something like a paved work of sapphire stone, as clear as the
sky.

• God does not lay His hand on them — they see God, eat and drink.

• This shows a covenantal meal in God’s presence — an act of fellowship and peace.

Moses Goes Up the Mountain for 40 Days (vv. 12–18)

• God calls Moses to come up to receive the tablets of stone, written by God Himself
(v. 12).

• Moses arises with Joshua, his assistant, and ascends Mount Sinai (v. 13).

Leadership Setup:

• Moses tells the elders to wait and that Aaron and Hur will judge in his absence (v.
14).

Glory on Sinai:

• The glory of the Lord rests on Mount Sinai in a cloud for six days.

• On the seventh day, God calls to Moses from within the cloud (v. 16).

Visual Glory:

• To the Israelites below, God’s glory looked like a consuming fire on the mountain (v.
17).
• Moses enters the cloud and is on the mountain for forty days and forty nights (v. 18).

Exodus chapter 25:1-40

1. The Offering for the Tabernacle (vv. 1–9)

• The Lord speaks to Moses: “Speak to the children of Israel, that they bring Me an
offering. From everyone who gives it willingly with his heart you shall take My
offering.” (v. 2)

Materials Requested (vv. 3–7):

• The Israelites are to bring items such as:

 • Gold, silver, bronze

• Blue, purple, and scarlet thread

• Fine linen and goat hair

• Ram skins dyed red, badger skins

• Acacia wood

• Oil, spices, incense

• Onyx stones and other precious stones (for priestly garments)

🛖 Purpose:

• “Let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them.” (v. 8)

• God instructs Moses to follow the pattern shown on the mountain (v. 9).

2. The Ark of the Covenant (vv. 10–22)

Construction Details:

• Made of acacia wood, overlaid with pure gold (inside and out).

• Dimensions: 2½ cubits long, 1½ cubits wide, 1½ cubits high (~3.75 x 2.25 x 2.25
feet).

• Rings and poles for carrying.

Mercy Seat:

• A gold lid with two cherubim (angelic figures) at each end, facing each other.

• The Ark will hold the Testimony (the stone tablets with the Law) (v. 16).

• “There I will meet with you… from between the two cherubim.” (v. 22)

Symbolism:
 • The Ark represents God’s throne on earth.

• The Mercy Seat is the place of atonement and divine presence.

3. The Table of Showbread (vv. 23–30)

Details:

• Made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold.

• Dimensions: 2 cubits long, 1 cubit wide, 1½ cubits high (~3 x 1.5 x 2.25 feet).

• Gold molding, rings, and poles for carrying.

Purpose:

• Holds the Showbread (Bread of the Presence) — twelve loaves, one for each tribe of
Israel.

• Represents God’s provision and covenant relationship.

• “And you shall set the showbread on the table before Me always.” (v. 30)

4. The Golden Lampstand (vv. 31–40)

Construction:

• Made of pure hammered gold.

• One central shaft with six branches, three on each side (making seven lamps total).

• Cups shaped like almond blossoms with ornamental knobs and flowers.

• Tools: wick trimmers and trays, also made of gold.

• “It shall be made of a talent of pure gold.” (v. 39)

Purpose:

• Provides light in the Holy Place.

• Symbolizes divine illumination, God's Word, and spiritual enlightenment.

 • “See to it that you make them according to the pattern which was shown you on the
mountain.” (v. 40)

Comparison of the Ark, Table, and Lampstand (Exodus 25)

Feature Ark of the Covenant Table of Showbread Golden Lampstand
Material Acacia wood Acacia wood Pure gold (entirely
overlaid with pure overlaid with pure hammered)
gold gold
Dimensions 2.5 x 1.5 x 1.5 cubits 2 x 1 x 1.5 cubits No specific size;
based on design
shown
Function Contains the stone Holds 12 loaves of Holds 7 oil lamps for
tablets of the Law bread (one per tribe) continual light
Spiritual God's presence and God's provision and God’s light, Spirit,
Symbolism mercy seat fellowship and guidance
(atonement)
Key Details Two cherubim on lid 12 loaves renewed Almond blossom
(Mercy Seat); poles weekly: poles for design; cups, knobs,
to carry transport flowers
Placement in Most Holy Place Holy Place (north Holy Place (south
Tabernacle (behind the veil) side) side)
Pointing to Christ Jesus as the Jesus as the Bread Jesus as the Light of
atonement and of Life (John 6:35) the World (John 8:12
God’s presence

Tabernacle Elements & Symbolism

Item Location Purpose Symbolism
Bronze Altar Outer Court Burnt sacrifices for Christ's sacrifice
sin
Bronze Laver Outer Court Washing for priestly Spiritual cleansing
cleansing (Titus 3:5)
Table of Holy Place Bread of Presence Christ the Bread of
Showbread (12 loaves) Life (John 6:35)
Golden Lampstand Holy Place 7 lamps for light Christ the Light of
the World (John
8:12)
Altar of Holy Place Incense symbolizing Christ our
Incense prayer intercessor (Rev.
8:3-4)
 Ark of the Holy of Holies Contained the Law; God's throne; Christ
Covenant Mercy Seat on top our atonement
(Rom. 3:25)
Mercy Seat (Ark Holy of Holies Blood sprinkled for Jesus’ blood
Lid) atonement atonement

Exodus 26:1-37 The Tabernacle

1. The Tabernacle’s Curtains (vv. 1–6)

• God commands the making of ten curtains.

• Made from fine woven linen, blue, purple, and scarlet thread.

• Decorated with cherubim (angelic designs).

• Each curtain: 28 cubits long, 4 cubits wide (~42 ft x 6 ft).

• Joined in sets of five with loops of blue yarn and gold clasps to make it one
Tabernacle covering.

• Spiritual Note: The cherubim signify heavenly presence and holiness.

2. Curtains of Goats' Hair (vv. 7–13)

• 11 curtains made of goats' hair for a tent covering over the Tabernacle.

• Each: 30 cubits long, 4 cubits wide (~45 ft x 6 ft).

• Joined in groups and fastened with bronze clasps.

• The extra length covered the sides and back of the Tabernacle.

• Symbolism: The goat hair may represent atonement (as in the sin offering goats).

3. Outer Coverings (v. 14)

• Two additional layers:

 • Ram skins dyed red

• Badger skins (some translations say sea cow, porpoise, or durable leather)

• These were protective, outermost coverings.

4. The Boards and Sockets (vv. 15–30)

• The Tabernacle's frame made of acacia wood boards, standing upright.

• Each board: 10 cubits high, 1.5 cubits wide (~15 ft x 2.25 ft).

• Boards overlaid with gold, with two tenons each (fitting into silver sockets).

Boards arranged:

• 20 on each side (north and south)

• 6 for the west side, with 2 corner boards

• Held together with bars and rings — 5 bars per side (middle bar runs through the
center).

• Entire frame overlaid with gold, with rings of gold for the bars.

• Symbolism: The acacia wood (resistant and durable) overlaid with gold shows divine
glory in human vessel (a picture of Christ and the church).

5. The Veil (vv. 31–33)

• A veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn with cherubim, separating the Holy Place
from the Most Holy Place.

• Hung on four gold-covered pillars of acacia wood, standing in silver sockets.

• Key Purpose: Divides the Tabernacle into two sections — Holy Place and Most Holy
Place.
 • New Testament Link: The veil torn at Jesus’ crucifixion (Matthew 27:51),
symbolizing direct access to God through Christ.

6. The Most Holy Place & Ark (v. 34)

• The Ark of the Testimony placed behind the veil, in the Most Holy Place.

• The Mercy Seat is placed on top of the Ark.

7. The Holy Place: Table and Lampstand (v. 35)

• The table of Showbread is placed on the north side.

• Golden Lampstand is placed on the south side, opposite the table.

8. The Tabernacle Entrance Screen (vv. 36–37)

• A screen (curtain) made of blue, purple, and scarlet thread and fine linen.

• Hung on five pillars of acacia wood overlaid with gold, set in bronze sockets.

Exodus 27:1-21 The Altar of Burnt Offering

1. The Bronze Altar (vv. 1–8)

Instructions to build:

• An altar of acacia wood, overlaid with bronze.

Dimensions:

• 5 cubits long, 5 cubits wide, and 3 cubits high

• (approx. 7.5 ft x 7.5 ft x 4.5 ft).

Design Features:

• Four horns on its corners (integral to the altar), overlaid with bronze.

• Bronze utensils made for its use: pans, shovels, basins, forks, firepans.

• A bronze grating under the rim.

 • Rings and poles for carrying the altar—made of acacia wood, overlaid with bronze.

🕊 Symbolism: The altar represents sacrifice and atonement. Blood offerings were made
here for sin. The horns symbolize strength and were sometimes touched for refuge (see 1
Kings 1:50).

2. The Court of the Tabernacle (vv. 9–19)

The Courtyard dimensions:

Rectangular space:

➤ 100 cubits (150 ft) long on the north and south sides.

➤ 50 cubits (75 ft) wide on the west and east.

Materials:

• Fine woven linen hangings, held up by 20 pillars on each long side.

• Bronze sockets, silver hooks and bands.

• East side (entrance):

50 cubits wide:

• ➤ 15 cubits on each side for hangings.

• ➤ A screen of 20 cubits (30 ft) in the center — woven with blue, purple, and scarlet
thread, supported by 4 pillars.

🏕 Function: This courtyard separated holy space from the common camp and was the
area where sacrifices and washings occurred. Only priests could go further.

3. The Oil for the Lamp (vv. 20–21)

• Command to the Israelites:

• Bring clear oil of pressed olives for the lampstand to keep it burning continually.

• Placement:
 • In the tabernacle of meeting, outside the veil before the Ark, in the Holy Place.

• Duty: Aaron and his sons (the priests) were to tend the lamp continually from
evening to morning before the LORD.

• This command was to be a perpetual statute throughout generations.

Spiritual Significance: The light represents God’s presence, guidance, and truth. Christ
is later referred to as the Light of the World (John 8:12).

Exodus 28:1-43 Garments for the Priesthood

1. Call of Aaron and His Sons to the Priesthood (v. 1)

• God commands Moses to set apart Aaron and his sons:

• Aaron (as High Priest)

• Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar

• These men were to minister to God as priests — a sacred, consecrated role.

2. Garments for Glory and Beauty (vv. 2–3)

• Special garments were to be made for Aaron:

• To reflect glory and beauty

• Crafted by skillful artisans filled with the Spirit of wisdom

Symbolism: The High Priest represented God’s holiness and Israel before God — so his
garments had to reflect that divine role.

3. List of High Priest Garments (v. 4)

• The garments included:

 • Breastplate

• Ephod

• Robe

• Skillfully woven tunic

• Turban

• Sash

These garments were for Aaron only. His sons received tunics, sashes, and hats (v. 40).

4. The Ephod (vv. 5–14)

• Made from gold, blue, purple, scarlet thread, and fine linen.

• Had shoulder straps and a skillfully woven waistband.

• Two onyx stones engraved with the names of the 12 tribes of Israel (6 names per
stone).

• Mounted in gold settings, placed on the shoulders.

🛖 Symbolism: The High Priest bore the names of the tribes before God — showing
representation and intercession.

5. The Breastplate of Judgment (vv. 15–30)

• A square piece folded double, made of the same materials as the ephod.

• Set with 12 precious stones, each engraved with one of the 12 tribes:

• Sardius, Topaz, Emerald, Turquoise, Sapphire, Diamond, Jacinth, Agate, Amethyst,

Beryl, Onyx, Jasper

• Attached to the ephod with gold chains and rings.

 • Contained the Urim and Thummim — means for discerning God’s will.

Symbolism: The priest carried Israel over his heart — for mercy, guidance, and
judgment.

6. The Robe of the Ephod (vv. 31–35)

• Made entirely of blue.

• Designed with an opening at the top (like a tunic), reinforced to prevent tearing.

• The bottom edge had alternating pomegranates (blue, purple, scarlet) and gold
bells.

• The bells would ring as the priest moved — ensuring he wouldn't die in God’s
presence (v. 35).

7. The Turban and Golden Plate (vv. 36–39)

• A pure gold plate engraved with “HOLINESS TO THE LORD”.

• Fastened to the turban with a blue cord — worn on Aaron’s forehead.

• Worn to bear the iniquity of the holy things offered by Israel.

🛖 Symbolism: A constant reminder that the priest's role was to bear sin and stand holy
before the LORD.

8. Garments for Aaron’s Sons (vv. 40–43)

• Made for dignity and beauty:

• Tunics

• Sashes

• Hats
 • All priests wore linen trousers (undergarments) from waist to thighs — as a symbol
of modesty and purity.

• These garments were to be worn when they entered the Tabernacle, lest they die.

Exodus 29:1-46 Aaron and His Sons Consecrated

1. God Commands the Consecration of Priests (vv. 1–3)

• Purpose: To consecrate Aaron and his sons so they may minister as priests.

• Required items for the consecration: One young bull and two rams without blemish.

• Unleavened bread, unleavened cakes, and unleavened wafers made with oil.

• Placed in a basket to be presented at the Tabernacle entrance.

• This ceremony emphasizes purity, sacrifice, and sanctification.

2. Washing & Clothing of the Priests (vv. 4–9)

• Aaron and his sons were to be washed with water at the Tabernacle door.

• Moses was to dress Aaron in the High Priest garments: tunic, robe, ephod,
breastplate, turban, and crown.

• Aaron’s sons were clothed in tunics, sashes, and hats.

• Moses was to anoint and consecrate them for service.

Symbolism: Washing = purification. Clothing = righteousness. Oil = the Holy Spirit.

3. Sin Offering: The Bull (vv. 10–14)

• Aaron and sons lay their hands on the bull’s head (identifying with the sacrifice).
• The bull is slaughtered as a sin offering:

• Blood applied to the horns of the altar and poured at the base.

• Fat parts burned on the altar.

• Flesh and hide burned outside the camp.

• This offering atones for sin — pointing to Christ as the ultimate sin offering
(Hebrews 13:11-12).

4. Burnt Offering: First Ram (vv. 15–18)

• Hands laid on the first ram.

• Entire animal burned on the altar.

• A burnt offering to the LORD, producing a sweet aroma.

Symbolism: Total surrender and dedication to God.

5. Ram of Ordination: Second Ram (vv. 19–28)

• Aaron and sons lay hands on the second ram.

• Its blood is applied to:

• Aaron’s right ear, right thumb, and right big toe — and likewise for his sons.

• The altar and garments are sprinkled with blood and anointing oil.

• Parts of the ram are waved before the LORD (wave offering).

• Moses takes the breast as his portion.

• The offering is considered holy, to be shared by Aaron and his sons.

Symbolism: Ear to hear God, hand to serve, foot to walk in His ways.
 6. Eating of the Ordination Offering (vv. 29–34)

• Aaron and sons eat the consecrated food at the Tabernacle entrance.

• Leftovers are burned the next day — not kept.

• 🍽 This meal symbolizes fellowship with God.

7. Seven Days of Consecration (vv. 35–37)

• This ordination ritual lasts 7 days.

• Daily sacrifices of a bull as a sin offering.

• The altar is consecrated and anointed.

• Whatever touches the altar becomes holy.

• Seven represents completeness — a full consecration.

8. Daily Offerings Commanded (vv. 38–46)

• Two lambs offered daily: one in the morning, one at twilight.

• With flour, oil, and wine as a grain and drink offering.

• Ongoing worship — a continual burnt offering before the LORD.

• This daily offering represents regular communion with God.

• God’s promise (vv. 42–46):

• “I will meet with you.”

• “I will sanctify the Tabernacle.”

• “I will dwell among the children of Israel and be their God.”

Exodus 30:1-38 The Altar of Incense

1. The Altar of Incense (vv. 1–10)

• Made of acacia wood, overlaid with pure gold.

• Dimensions: 1 cubit long, 1 cubit wide, 2 cubits high (approx. 18" x 18" x 36").

• Placed before the veil, opposite the Ark of the Testimony.

Purpose:

• Burn incense every morning and evening when the lamps are trimmed.

• Incense symbolizes prayer and God’s presence (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 8:3–4).

Important Notes:

• Only sacred incense allowed.

• No burnt or grain offerings, or drink offerings on it.

• Aaron makes atonement once a year by placing blood on its horns (Day of
Atonement).

Symbolism: Intercession and holiness. The priest represents the people before God
through prayer.

2. The Ransom Money (Atonement Offering) (vv. 11–16)

• Every Israelite 20 years and older must give a half-shekel offering when counted (a
census).

• Same amount for rich and poor — a ransom for his soul.

• Money used for the service of the Tabernacle.

Spiritual Meaning: A universal atonement offering — all stand equal before God. This
foreshadows Christ paying the ransom for all (1 Timothy 2:5–6).
 3. The Bronze Laver (Basin for Washing) (vv. 17–21)

• Made of bronze and placed between the altar and the Tabernacle entrance.

• Filled with water for Aaron and his sons to wash their hands and feet before
ministering.

Symbolism: Cleansing before entering God's presence. Without washing, the priest
would die (v. 20). This reflects the importance of spiritual purity (John 13:10; 1 John 1:9).

4. The Holy Anointing Oil (vv. 22–33)

Ingredients:

• Myrrh (500 shekels)

• Cinnamon (250)
• Cane (250)
• Cassia (500)
• Olive oil (1 hin ≈ 1 gallon)

Purpose: Used to anoint the Tabernacle, furniture, Ark, altars, laver, and Aaron and his
sons.

Restrictions:

• Not to be used on laypeople or made for common use.

• Whoever copies it or uses it unlawfully shall be cut off.

Symbolism: Represents the Holy Spirit, consecration, and God’s presence (1 Samuel
16:13; 2 Corinthians 1:21-22).

5. The Incense Recipe (vv. 34–38)

Ingredients:

• Stacte
• Onycha
• Galbanum
• Pure frankincense (equal parts)

Usage:

• Burned on the altar of incense.

 • Considered most holy — not to be replicated for personal fragrance.
• Violation leads to being cut off from the people.

Symbolism: Incense = prayer, reverence, and worship. God desires genuine, sacred
devotion, not imitation.

•
• Timeline / Age Context
• Timing: Still during Moses’ 40 days on Mount Sinai (Exodus 24:18).
•
• The people of Israel are encamped at Mount Sinai.
•
• Age reference: All men 20 years and older give the atonement money (v. 14).
•
• Moses is approximately 80 years old.
•

Summary Recap

• Exodus 30 describes several key components of the Tabernacle:

• The altar of incense for daily prayer,
• The atonement money required for every adult male,
• The bronze laver for ritual cleansing,
• The holy anointing oil to set apart the priests and furniture,
• And the sacred incense for worship.

Exodus 31:1-18 Artisans for Building the Tabernacle

1. Bezalel and Aholiab Are Chosen and Empowered (Exodus 31:1–11)

Main Individuals:

• Bezalel (v.2):

Tribe: Judah

Grandson of Hur, son of Uri

Chosen by God and filled with the Spirit of God, Wisdom. Understanding, Knowledge and

All kinds of workmanship.

Skills: Artistic design, working with gold, silver, bronze, cutting jewels, carving wood, and

crafting artistic works.

• Aholiab (v.6):

Tribe: Dan

Son of Ahisamach

Appointed to assist Bezalel.

Mission: To Construct the Tabernacle of Meeting, Ark of the Testimony, Mercy Seat, all

furnishings, altar of burnt offering, basin, priestly garments, anointing oil, and incense—all

“according to all that I have commanded you” (v.11).

2. The Sabbath Law Reiterated (Exodus 31:12–17)

Key Teachings:

• The Sabbath is a sign between God and Israel forever. Observing it shows that God

sanctifies them (v.13). It is to be kept holy:

• Whoever profanes it shall be put to death (v.14).

• Anyone who works on the Sabbath shall be cut off from among his people.

Symbolic Importance:

Reflects God’s creation pattern—He made heaven and earth in six days and rested on the

seventh (v.17).

3. God Gives Moses the Tablets of the Testimony (Exodus 31:18)

 • After speaking with Moses on Mount Sinai, God gives him two tablets of the

Testimony.

• Tablets are made of stone, written with the finger of God—not man-made.

Exodus chapter 32:1-35 The Gold Calf

Key Theme: Israel’s Rebellion and Moses’ Intercession

• While Moses is receiving the commandments on Mount Sinai, the Israelites fall into

idolatry by worshiping a golden calf, provoking God's wrath. Moses intercedes on

their behalf.

Key Events & Details

1. The Golden Calf is Made and Worshiped (vv. 1–6)

Key Actions:

• People grow impatient (v.1) with Moses being gone (he's been on Mount Sinai for 40

days. Exodus 24:18).

• They demand gods, saying: "As for this Moses… we do not know what has become of

him."

• Aaron asks for gold earrings from the people and fashions a golden calf (v.4) using

an engraving tool.
The people proclaim: “This is your god, O Israel, that brought you out of the land of Egypt!”

(v.4)

• Aaron builds an altar before it and declares a feast to the LORD.

• The people offer burnt offerings, eat, drink, and rise up to play (possibly immorality

involved).

2. God’s Anger and Moses’ Intercession (vv. 7–14)

God’s Reaction:

• God tells Moses: “Go, get down! For your people… have corrupted themselves.”

(v.7)

• He declares they have turned aside quickly and made a molten calf.

• God wants to consume them in His wrath and make a great nation from Moses

instead.

Moses pleads for mercy: Appeals to God's reputation among the Egyptians (v.12).

• Reminds God of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Israel.

• God relents from the disaster He planned (v.14)—not because He changed, but

because Moses fulfilled his mediatory role.

3. Moses Breaks the Tablets (vv. 15–20)

Coming Down the Mountain: Moses descends with two tablets of the Testimony,

written on both sides (v.15).

 • Tablets are written by the finger of God (v.16).

• Joshua: Accompanies Moses, hears noise and thinks it’s war (v.17).

• Moses says it’s the sound of singing and revelry.

Moses’ Anger: Sees the calf and dancing.

• Throws down the tablets and breaks them at the foot of the mountain (symbolizing

the broken covenant).

• Burns the calf, grinds it to powder, scatters it on water, and makes the Israelites

drink it (v.20).

4. Judgment on the Idolaters (vv. 25–29)

Moses Sees the People Unrestrained: Especially because of Aaron’s weak leadership.

The Levites’ Loyalty:

• Moses calls: “Whoever is on the LORD’s side—come to me!” (v.26)

• The sons of Levi gather around Moses.

• He commands them to kill their brothers, companions, and neighbors.

• About 3,000 men die by the sword (v.28).

Blessing on Levi: Moses declares they have consecrated themselves that day by

executing justice.

5. Moses Again Intercedes – Offers Himself (vv. 30–35)

 • He returns to God, saying: “Oh, these people have committed a great sin… Yet now,

if You will forgive their sin, but if not, I pray, blot me out of Your book…” (v.32)

God’s Response:

• God says: “Whoever has sinned against Me, I will blot him out of My book.” (v.33)

• God promises to send His Angel to lead them, but:

• Plague is sent on the people because of the golden calf (v.35).

Exodus 33:1-23 The Command to Leave Sinai

Key Theme: God’s Presence, Moses’ Intercession, and the Tent of Meeting

After the sin of the golden calf, God tells Moses He will not go with Israel to the Promised

Land—but Moses pleads for God's presence to remain with them.

1. God Tells Moses to Depart Sinai (vv. 1–3)

• God’s Instructions: “Depart… go up from here, you and the people whom you

have brought out of the land of Egypt.” (v.1)

• God promises to: Send an Angel before them (instead of His own presence).

• Drive out the Canaanite, Amorite, Hittite, Perizzite, Hivite, and Jebusite.

• Lead them to a land “flowing with milk and honey.”

• God says, “I will not go up in your midst” (v.3), because Israel is a stiff-necked

people, and He might destroy them on the way.

2. The People Mourn (vv. 4–6)

• When the people hear God will not go with them, they mourn deeply.

• They remove their ornaments (jewelry), a sign of repentance and humility.

• From Mount Horeb (another name for Sinai) onward, the Israelites did not wear their

ornaments (v.6), symbolizing lasting regret over their rebellion.

3. The Tent of Meeting Outside the Camp (vv. 7–11)

• Outside the camp (not yet the Tabernacle; this is a temporary tent where Moses

meets with God).

• Moses pitches the tent far from the camp.

• Anyone seeking the LORD would go to this tent of meeting.

When Moses entered: A pillar of clouds would descend and stand at the door.

• God would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend (v.11).

• Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ assistant, a young man, did not depart from the tent

(v.11).

• This hints at Joshua’s growing intimacy with God and future leadership role.

4. Moses Pleads for God’s Presence (vv. 12–17)

• Moses reminds God: “You have not let me know whom You will send with me…”

(v.12)

• He pleads for God’s personal presence, not just an angel: “If Your Presence does not

go with us, do not bring us up from here.” (v.15)

 • Moses says God’s presence is what sets Israel apart from all other nations (v.16).

God’s Response: “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” (v.14)

• He agrees to Moses’ request because: “You have found grace in My sight, and I know

you by name.” (v.17)

5. Moses Asks to See God’s Glory (vv. 18–23)

Moses’ Request: “Please, show me Your glory.” (v.18)

God’s Answer: God will make all His goodness pass before Moses (v.19).

• He will proclaim His name: “The LORD” (Yahweh).

• He declares His sovereignty: “I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious…” (v.19)

• No man can see God’s face and live (v.20).

• God's Provision: God places Moses in a cleft of the rock.

• He will cover Moses with His hand as His glory passes by.

• Moses will see God's back, but not His face (v.23).

Exodus 34:1-35 Moses Makes New Tablets

Key Theme: Covenant Renewal, God’s Mercy, and Moses’ Radiant Face

After the golden calf incident, God calls Moses to return to Mount Sinai. He gives Moses a

second set of stone tablets, reveals His name and character, renews His covenant, and

Moses’ face shines after being in God's presence.

1. God Commands Moses to Make New Tablets (v. 1–4)

• 🛖 Stone Tablets: God tells Moses to cut two tablets of stone like the first ones he

broke (Exodus 32:19).

• God will write the same words on them—the Ten Commandments.

• Moses’ Actions: Moses cuts the tablets and rises early.

• He ascends Mount Sinai, as commanded, with the two tablets in his hand.

2. God Reveals His Name and Character (vv. 5–9)

• God Descends: The LORD descends in a cloud.

• Stands with Moses and proclaims the name of the LORD.

The LORD’s Self-Description (v. 6–7):

• "The LORD, the LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in

goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and

transgression and sin..."

• BUT: "...by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the

children..."

Moses’ Response: He bows down and worships.

• Pleads: “If now I have found grace in Your sight... go among us… pardon our iniquity

and our sin and take us as Your inheritance.” (v.9)

3. Covenant Renewed (vv. 10–28)

• God promises to do marvels never seen before (v.10).

• He will drive out the Amorite, Canaanite, Hittite, Perizzite, Hivite, and Jebusite (v.11).

God's Conditions: No covenants with the inhabitants of the land (v.12).

• Tear down their altars, break sacred pillars, and destroy wooden images (v.13).

• Do not worship any other god, for: “The LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous

God.” (v.14)

• No intermarriage with pagans (v.16).

• No molten images (v.17).

Religious Instructions (vv.18–26):

• Feast of Unleavened Bread to be observed (v.18).

• All firstborn males belong to God (v.19).

• Keep the Sabbath (v.21).

• Observe the Feast of Weeks and Feast of Ingathering (v.22).

• All males must appear before God three times a year (v.23).

• God will protect their land while they travel to worship.

Offerings:

• No leaven with blood sacrifice (v.25).

• Firstfruits to be offered.

• “You shall not boil a young goat in its mother’s milk” (v.26)—a repeated and

mysterious command (also in Ex. 23:19).

 Writing of the Covenant: Moses was with the Lord 40 days and 40 nights (v.28).

• He neither ate bread nor drank water.

• God wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant, specifically the Ten

Commandments.

4. Moses’ Face Shines (vv. 29–35)

What Happened: When Moses comes down Mount Sinai with the new tablets, his face

shines because he had spoken with God.

• Aaron and the Israelites are afraid to come near him.

• Moses calls them, gives them God’s commands, and afterward puts a veil over his

face.

• When he goes in to speak with the LORD, he removes the veil.

• When he comes out, his face shines again, and then he veils himself again.

Exodus 35:1-35 Sabbath Regulations

Key Theme: Sabbath Rest and the Willing Offering for the Tabernacle

Moses gathers the Israelites, reminds them of the Sabbath law, and calls them to bring

voluntary offerings for the building of the Tabernacle. The people respond with great

generosity, and skilled artisans prepare to begin the work.

1. Moses Commands Sabbath Observance (vv. 1–3)

Instruction:
 • Work for six days, rest on the seventh—the Sabbath is holy to the LORD.

• Penalty for breaking Sabbath: Death (v.2).

• Do not even kindle fire in dwellings on the Sabbath day (v.3).

Note: This reinforces the seriousness of the Sabbath law, showing it's foundational

even during the Tabernacle construction.

2. Freewill Offering for the Tabernacle (vv. 4–9)

Moses Invites Offerings: Everyone with a willing heart is to bring an offering to the LORD.

Materials Requested:

Gold, silver, bronze, blue, purple, and scarlet thread, Fine linen, goat hair, rams' skins dyed

red, badger skins, Acacia wood, Oil for the light. Spices for anointing oil and incense, Onyx

stones and gems for the high priest’s ephod and breastplate

3. Call for Skilled Artisans (vv. 10–19)

All gifted artisans among the people are called to help construct:

• The Tabernacle and its furnishings

• The Ark, mercy seat, and veil

• Tables, lampstand, altars, utensils

• Garments for Aaron the priest and his sons

Important: This is the first public announcement to begin actual construction after all

the earlier instructions given on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25–31).

4. The People’s Generous Response (vv. 20–29)

Who Gave?

• Men and women whose hearts were stirred and spirits willing. Brought:

• Jewelry: earrings, rings, bracelets, Fabrics, leather, and wood, Spun yarn (women

especially contributed in spinning), Stones and spices

• “Everyone whose heart was stirred” and “whose spirit was willing” (vv. 21–22).

• Women contributed by spinning yarn and weaving (v.25).

• Leaders brought precious stones and spices (v.27).

• “The children of Israel brought a freewill offering to the LORD, all the men and

women whose hearts were willing...” (v.29)

5. Bezalel and Aholiab Are Appointed Again (vv. 30–35)

• The actual construction site for the Tabernacle is not yet defined, but the materials

are being collected here.

Exodus chapter 36:1-38 Building the Tabernacle

Key Theme: Skilled Work Begins & The People's Overwhelming Generosity

God’s appointed artisans begin constructing the Tabernacle exactly as instructed, and the

people’s freewill offerings are so abundant that Moses has to command them to stop

giving.
 Key Point: They were filled with the Spirit of God in wisdom and understanding to

perform the work exactly as the LORD commanded (v.1).

2. The People Give Too Much—Moses Tells Them to Stop (vv. 3–7)

• Process: The people continued bringing freewill offerings every morning (v.3). So

much material was collected that the craftsmen told Moses:

• “The people bring much more than enough for the service of the work which the

LORD commanded us to do.” (v.5)

Moses gives an order: “Let neither man nor woman do any more work for the offering of the

sanctuary.” (v.6)

• The people were restrained from bringing.

• The material they had was more than enough (v.7).

3. Construction of the Tabernacle Begins (vv. 8–38)

• This section begins the detailed execution of all the items God had previously

commanded (see Exodus 25–30). Now, instead of instructions, it describes actual

construction:

a. The Curtains of the Tabernacle (vv. 8–13)

• Made of fine woven linen with blue, purple, and scarlet thread, cherubim woven into

them.
• Ten curtains in total; joined in two sets of five, with loops and clasps of gold to unite

them.

b. Curtains of Goats’ Hair for the Tent Over the Tabernacle (vv. 14–18)

• Eleven curtains made of goat hair, forming the tent layer over the Tabernacle.

• Joined similarly with loops and bronze clasps.

c. Coverings for the Tent (v.19)

• Ram skins dyed red for the outer covering.

• Badger skins (or possibly porpoise/dolphin skins depending on interpretation) as a

final waterproofing layer.

d. Boards for the Tabernacle Walls (vv. 20–30)

• Boards made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold.

• Set upright with silver sockets as bases.

• 20 boards for the north and south sides, 6 for the west, plus 2 corner boards.

e. Bars for the Boards (vv. 31–34)

• Crossbars (horizontal supports) also made of acacia wood overlaid with gold.

• Held the boards together; one central bar ran through the boards from end to end.

f. Veil and Its Pillars (vv. 35–36)

• Made of blue, purple, and scarlet thread, fine woven linen with cherubim.

• Hung on four pillars of acacia wood, overlaid with gold, set in silver sockets.
 g. Screen for the Tabernacle Door (vv. 37–38)

• Woven from blue, purple, scarlet thread, and fine linen.

• Hung on five pillars, overlaid with gold, set in bronze sockets.

Camp at Mount Sinai—the centralized place where the Tabernacle is being constructed

under Moses’ leadership and God’s instruction.

Exodus 37:1-29 Making the Ark of the Testimony

Key Theme: Crafting the Holy Furniture of the Tabernacle

In Exodus 37, Bezalel and his team of artisans construct the most sacred items for the

Tabernacle—the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Golden Lampstand, and

the Altar of Incense—exactly as God instructed Moses.

1. The Ark of the Covenant Is Constructed (vv. 1–9)

🛖 Materials: Acacia wood overlaid with pure gold

Dimensions: 2½ cubits long, 1½ cubits wide, 1½ cubits high (~45 in. x 27 in. x 27 in.)

Key Features:

• Gold molding (crown) all around

• Four rings of gold for carrying poles

• Poles made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold

The Mercy Seat:

 • Made of pure gold, same dimensions as the top of the Ark

• Two cherubim of gold, one on each end

• Cherubim faced each other and covered the mercy seat with their wings

This is where God’s presence would dwell and speak with Moses (. Exodus 25:22)

2. The Table for the Showbread (vv. 10–16)

Materials & Dimensions:

• Acacia wood, overlaid with pure gold

Dimensions: 2 cubits long, 1 cubit wide, 1½ cubits high (~36 in. x 18 in. x 27 in.)

• Gold molding and rings for carrying poles

Accessories: Utensils: dishes, pans, bowls, pitchers

• All made of pure gold

3. The Golden Lampstand (Menorah) (vv. 17–24)

Made from:

• One talent of pure gold (about 75 pounds)

• Entirely hammered work—crafted as one piece

Design:

• Central shaft with six branches—three on each side

• Each branch decorated with almond blossoms, knobs, and flowers

 • Seven lamps on top Includes gold wick trimmers and trays

Symbolism: Light, life (almond blossoms), God's presence

4. The Altar of Incense (vv. 25–28)

🛖 Materials & Size:

• Acacia wood, overlaid with pure gold

• Dimensions: 1 cubit long, 1 cubit wide, 2 cubits high (~18 in. x 18 in. x 36 in.)

• Horns at the corners, all one piece

• Gold molding around it

• Gold rings for poles to carry it

• Poles made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold

Purpose: Burn incense (symbol of prayers going up to God)

5. The Anointing Oil and Incense (v. 29)

• Made by the perfumer

• Holy anointing oil used to consecrate priests and furnishings

• Pure incense made with specific ingredients as prescribed earlier (. Exodus 30:34–

38)

Exodus chapter 38:1-31 Making the Altar of Burnt Offering

Key Theme: Construction of the Outer Court & Inventory of the Tabernacle Materials
 The skilled workers, under Bezalel’s leadership, construct the bronze altar, basin, outer

court, and provide a detailed account of all materials used, based on a census of the

people.

1. The Altar of Burnt Offering (Bronze Altar) (vv. 1–7)

🛖 Materials & Design:

• Made of acacia wood, overlaid with bronze

• Size: 5 cubits long × 5 cubits wide × 3 cubits high (~7.5 ft × 7.5 ft × 4.5 ft)

• Four horns on the corners (symbol of strength and sacrifice)

• Grate of bronze mesh inside the altar

• Poles of acacia wood overlaid with bronze for carrying

Purpose: This altar was for burnt sacrifices—it stood in the courtyard, accessible to the

priests and the people.

2. The Bronze Laver (Wash Basin) (v. 8)

• Made from the bronze mirrors of the serving women who assembled at the

entrance of the Tabernacle (v.8)

• No specific dimensions are given

Purpose: Used by Aaron and his sons to wash their hands and feet before entering

the Tabernacle or offering sacrifices (Exodus 30:17–21)

3. The Court of the Tabernacle (vv. 9–20)

 Structure:

• Length: 100 cubits (~150 feet)

• Width: 50 cubits (~75 feet)

• Height: 5 cubits (~7.5 feet)

Materials:

• Curtains of fine woven linen (white, symbolizing purity)

• Bronze sockets (bases), silver hooks, and overlay of caps with silver

• Gate on the east side had colored embroidery (blue, purple, and scarlet)

Purpose: This outer courtyard surrounded the Tabernacle and contained the bronze

altar and laver. It separated sacred space from the ordinary camp.

4. Inventory: The Metals Used in the Tabernacle (vv. 21–31)

The Accounting: This is "the inventory of the Tabernacle" (v.21)

• Taken at Moses’ command by the Levites under the leadership of Ithamar, son of

Aaron the high priest

Breakdown of Materials:

• 🛖 Gold: Total: 29 talents and 730 shekels (v.24) (~1 ton or 2,200 lbs of gold)

• Silver: Total: 100 talents and 1,775 shekels (v.25) Came from the census tax—

half a shekel per person

 Census Data:

• Total men (20 years and older): 603,550 (same as in Numbers 1:46)

• Used for making the silver bases for the Tabernacle and pillars (v.27)

Bronze: Total: 70 talents and 2,400 shekels (v.29) Used for altar, laver, sockets, court

pegs, etc.

Importance: This detailed inventory emphasizes transparency, accountability, and the

sheer scale of Israel’s generosity and God’s instructions.

Exodus 39:1-43 Making the Garments of the Priesthood

Key Theme: Completion of the Priestly Garments & Final Inspection of Tabernacle Work

The skilled craftsmen finish making the holy garments for Aaron and his sons—including

the ephod, breastplate, robe, tunic, turban, and sash—just as the LORD commanded.

Then, the entire Tabernacle and its components are brought to Moses for inspection and

approval.

1. Making the Holy Garments for Aaron and His Sons (vv. 1–31)

“As the LORD had commanded Moses” – this phrase is repeated 8 times in this section,

showing complete obedience.

a. The Ephod (vv. 2–7) Worn by the high priest

• Made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet thread, and fine woven linen

• Gold was beaten into thin sheets and cut into threads, woven into the fabric (v.3)
 • Two onyx stones engraved with the names of the 12 tribes of Israel (6 on each

stone), set in gold settings

• Fastened with shoulder straps and a skillfully woven waistband

Purpose: Symbolized the high priest carrying the names of Israel before the LORD

b. The Breastplate of Judgment (vv. 8–21)

• Square, folded double; about 9 inches by 9 inches

• Set with 12 precious stones representing the 12 tribes

• Stones include sardius, topaz, emerald, sapphire, diamond, etc.

• Engraved like signets with the tribal names

• Attached to the ephod with blue cords and gold rings

Purpose: High priest wore it over his heart to represent justice and intercession for the

people

c. The Robe of the Ephod (vv. 22–26)

• Made entirely of blue

• Around its hem were pomegranates (blue, purple, scarlet) and gold bells, alternating

Purpose: The sound of the bells signified the priest’s movement before the LORD (Ex.

28:35)

d. Other Garments (vv. 27–29)

• Tunics of fine linen for Aaron and his sons

 • Turban (head covering) for Aaron, and caps for his sons

• Sashes of woven linen and colored thread

e. The Golden Plate (Holy Crown) (v. 30–31)

• Engraved with “HOLINESS TO THE LORD”

• Fastened to the turban with a blue cord

Purpose: A symbol of the priest’s consecration to God (Ex. 28:36–38)

2. Presentation of the Completed Tabernacle Items to Moses (vv. 32–41)

• All the work of the Tabernacle (tent, furnishings, garments, accessories) was

completed

• The items were brought to Moses for inspection

Items Listed Include:

• Tabernacle tent and coverings

• Ark of the Testimony and its poles

• Table of Showbread, Lampstand, Altar of Incense

• Bronze Altar, Laver, courtyard materials

• Priestly garments (sacred vestments for Aaron and his sons)

Everything was done “just as the LORD had commanded Moses”

3. Moses Inspects and Blesses the Work (v. 42–43)

 • “Then Moses looked over all the work, and indeed they had done it; as the LORD had

commanded... and Moses blessed them.” (v.43)

• Moses confirms everything was made according to the divine pattern

• He blesses the workers and the people for their faithful, obedient labor

Exodus chapter 40:1-38 The Tabernacle Erected and Arranged

Key Theme: The Tabernacle Is Set Up, Anointed, and Filled with God’s Glory

In this climactic chapter, Moses sets up the Tabernacle according to God’s instructions. All

the furnishings and the priests are anointed, and then the glory of the LORD fills the

Tabernacle, symbolizing God’s presence with Israel.

1. God Commands the Tabernacle Be Set Up on the First Day of the First Month (vv. 1–2)

• Date given: "On the first day of the first month, you shall set up the Tabernacle of

the tent of meeting." (v.2)

• This is exactly one year after Israel left Egypt (. Exodus 12:2; Exodus 40:17 confirms

it).

• Year 2, Month 1, Day 1 of the Exodus calendar

2. Instructions for Setting Up the Tabernacle and Its Furnishings (vv. 3–8)

• God gives Moses detailed instructions for how to arrange and position each item:

Key Items Placed:

• Ark of the Testimony: In the Most Holy Place; covered by the veil
 • Table of Showbread: Set in the Holy Place, with bread arranged on it

• Lampstand: Placed across from the table and lit

• Golden Altar of Incense: In front of the veil

• Altar of Burnt Offering: Outside the tent, in front of the entrance

• Laver (wash basin): Between the altar and the Tabernacle

• Court: Outer perimeter set up with curtains and gate

All items are arranged exactly as previously commanded (. Exodus 25–30).

3. Anointing and Consecration of the Tabernacle and Its Elements (vv. 9–11)

• Moses is to anoint the Tabernacle and all its furnishings with anointing oil

• This act consecrates them as holy

• The altar and the laver are especially emphasized—they must be anointed and

sanctified for service

4. Consecration of Aaron and His Sons (vv. 12–15)

• Aaron and his sons brought to the entrance of the Tabernacle

• They are washed with water

• Moses dresses Aaron in the holy garments (ephod, breastplate, turban, etc.)

• He anoints him and his sons to serve as priests forever

This marks the beginning of the Aaronic priesthood.

5. Moses Sets Up the Tabernacle (vv. 16–33)

 • “Thus Moses did; according to all that the LORD had commanded him, so he did.”

(v.16)

This section is a step-by-step account of Moses personally:

• Setting up the tent

• Placing the ark, table, lampstand, altars, and laver

• Hanging the veils and screens

• Washing and dressing Aaron and his sons

• Anointing everything

"So Moses finished the work."

6. The Glory of the LORD Fills the Tabernacle (vv. 34–38)

Divine Presence Descends:

• “Then the cloud covered the Tabernacle of meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled

the Tabernacle.” (v.34)

• God's cloud of glory (Shekinah) filled the sanctuary

• Moses could not enter because of the overwhelming presence of God

Guidance System for Israel:

• When the cloud lifted, Israel would set out on their journey

• If the cloud remained, they stayed in camp

• The cloud was present by day, and fire was in it by night, in full view of all Israel
 This confirmed that God was now dwelling among His people, fulfilling His promise in

Exodus 25:8 — "Let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them."