Read the Daily Bible Verse – Exodus 36:34 To Strengthen Your Spiritual Journey.
Exodus 36:34 is a verse that comes in the midst of the detailed instructions about the construction of the Tabernacle, a place where God‘s presence was to dwell among the Israelites. This verse is part of a larger narrative in Exodus that discusses the craftsmanship and materials involved in building the Tabernacle, which is a symbol of God’s presence and holiness. Though it might appear as a simple description of the Tabernacle’s construction, Exodus 36:34 holds deeper meaning when viewed in the context of God’s plan of redemption and His desire to dwell with His people.
In this article, we will explore the context, meaning, applications, comparisons with other biblical texts, and modern relevance of Exodus 36:34. Through a deeper examination of this verse, we can gain insights into how the Tabernacle points forward to Christ and how it speaks to our lives today.
The Context of Exodus 36:34 (KJV)
Exodus 36 is part of the larger section that focuses on the actual construction of the Tabernacle, beginning with Exodus 35. The people of Israel, led by Moses, were instructed by God to build a sanctuary where He would dwell among them (Exodus 25:8). The Tabernacle was a mobile structure that would accompany the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness, and it was designed to be a place where God’s holiness could be symbolized and experienced.
By the time we reach Exodus 36:34, the focus is on the curtains that would form the Tabernacle’s covering and separate the sacred space from the outside world. Exodus 36:34 specifically mentions the curtain of goat’s hair, which was used to cover the Tabernacle.
Here is the verse:
Exodus 36:34 (KJV):
“And he made a covering for the tent of rams’ skins dyed red, and a covering of badgers’ skins above that.”
In this verse, the construction of two layers of coverings for the Tabernacle is described. The first layer, made from rams’ skins dyed red, was a significant covering for the tent, and the second layer, made from badgers’ skins, was placed over the first layer. These coverings were essential to protect the interior of the Tabernacle from external elements, and they also symbolized the protection and holiness that God offers to His people.
Significance of the Materials
The materials mentioned in Exodus 36:34—the rams’ skins dyed red and badgers’ skins—are of particular interest because of their symbolic value:
Rams’ skins dyed red: Rams were sacrificial animals, and the red dye could symbolize the sacrifice made for the atonement of sin. The color red also brings to mind the blood of the lamb (Exodus 12:7), which was used during the Passover and pointed forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the cross.
Badgers’ skins: The use of badgers’ skins is less clear, but it may symbolize protection and covering. The badger’s skin may have been durable and waterproof, providing the necessary protection for the Tabernacle in the wilderness. It can also be seen as representing the covering that God provides for His people, safeguarding them from harm.
The Meaning of Exodus 36:34
Exodus 36:34 has both a literal and symbolic meaning. On the literal level, the verse describes the materials used to construct the Tabernacle’s coverings. These coverings were essential for providing the necessary protection for the Tabernacle, ensuring that the sacred space remained intact and secure as the Israelites traveled through the wilderness.
However, the symbolic meaning of this verse is more profound. The layers of coverings represent how God’s holiness and presence were to be protected from the outside world. The red-dyed rams’ skins symbolize the sacrifice that would be required for God to dwell among His people, while the badgers’ skins symbolize protection—the covering that God provides to safeguard His people.
Christ as Our Covering
The layers of coverings can also be seen as a metaphor for the way in which Christ is the ultimate covering for believers. Just as the Tabernacle was covered by these layers to protect it, Christ’s sacrifice and righteousness are the coverings under which we find security and access to God. The rams’ skins dyed red point to Christ’s blood shed on the cross for our sins, while the badgers’ skins symbolize the protection that God provides through Christ.
The coverings also serve as a reminder that God’s holiness is protected and safeguarded in His presence. As sinners, we can only approach God through the sacrifice of Jesus and by being clothed in His righteousness. Our access to the presence of God is made possible through the covering of Christ, who takes away our sins and provides us with spiritual protection.
Exodus 36:34 Application in Life
Exodus 36:34 may seem like a technical detail regarding the construction of the Tabernacle, but it holds profound spiritual lessons for us today. This verse invites us to reflect on how we, as believers, are to respond to God’s provision, holiness, and protection.
1. Christ as Our Sacrifice and Covering
The rams’ skins dyed red are a clear symbol of Christ’s sacrifice on our behalf. As believers, we must continually recognize that our access to God is not based on our own merit or righteousness, but on the atoning work of Jesus Christ. Just as the Tabernacle’s coverings made the sacred space accessible and protected, Christ’s sacrifice makes it possible for us to come into God’s presence.
In practical terms, this means that we must live in the light of Christ’s finished work on the cross. We can approach God with boldness because we are covered by the blood of Christ. This reality should shape the way we live, as we strive to live out our faith with gratitude for the sacrifice that provides us with eternal life.
2. God’s Protection Over Our Lives
The badgers’ skins used in the Tabernacle’s construction may symbolize the protection that God provides. Just as the Tabernacle was covered to protect it from the elements, we are covered by God’s divine protection. This does not mean that we will not face difficulties, but it means that God is always with us, protecting us and safeguarding us from spiritual harm.
In life, we can find comfort in knowing that God is our protector. We should trust in His ability to shield us from harm and guide us through the challenges of life. Whether facing personal trials or spiritual warfare, we can rest in the fact that God has covered us with His grace and love.
3. Holiness and Reverence for God’s Presence
The Tabernacle’s coverings also highlight the importance of approaching God with reverence and holiness. Just as the Tabernacle had to be carefully constructed and covered to protect God’s holiness, we, too, must recognize the holiness of God’s presence in our lives. We are called to live in holiness, understanding that God’s presence is not something to be taken lightly.
In everyday life, this means cultivating a lifestyle of purity and obedience. We must actively seek to live in a manner that honors God’s holiness, keeping our hearts and minds focused on Him. This involves prioritizing time in prayer, Scripture reading, and worship, as we draw near to God in reverence.
Comparison with Other Biblical Texts
Exodus 36:34 resonates with several other biblical themes and scriptures, especially those that deal with Christ as our covering and God’s protection.
1. Romans 3:25 – Christ as Our Propitiation
In Romans 3:25, Paul writes, “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God.” Christ is the ultimate covering for our sins. Just as the rams’ skins dyed red covered the Tabernacle, Christ’s blood covers our sins and grants us access to God.
2. Psalm 91:4 – God’s Protection
Psalm 91:4 is a beautiful description of God’s protection: “He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.” This verse mirrors the symbolism of the badgers’ skins in Exodus 36:34. Just as the Tabernacle was covered to provide protection, God’s faithful protection is likened to the covering of a mother bird shielding her young.
3. Colossians 3:3 – Hidden in Christ
In Colossians 3:3, Paul writes, “For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” This verse speaks to the security we have in Christ, who is our ultimate covering. Just as the Tabernacle was hidden and protected by its coverings, we are hidden and protected in Christ.
Modern-Day Relevance
The relevance of Exodus 36:34 extends far beyond the construction of the Tabernacle in the wilderness. The symbolism of the coverings points forward to Christ, whose sacrifice is the ultimate covering for our sins. As we navigate life today, we can draw strength from the understanding that Christ covers us in our weaknesses and provides protection from the storms of life.
The layers of coverings also remind us of the holiness and sacredness of God’s presence. In a world that often diminishes the importance of God’s holiness, Exodus 36:34 challenges us to honor and reverence God’s presence in our lives, living in obedience and humility before Him.
Conclusion
Exodus 36:34 is more than just a description of the materials used in the Tabernacle. It is a profound reminder of God’s protection and holiness, which is symbolized in the coverings of the Tabernacle. Through Christ, we have the ultimate covering for our sins and the protection we need to face life’s challenges. This verse challenges us to honor God’s holiness, to find security in Christ’s sacrifice, and to live in obedience to the One who covers us with His love and grace.
Exodus 36:34 Commentary
Exodus 36:34 is rich in symbolism. The materials used in the Tabernacle’s construction—rams’ skins dyed red and badgers’ skins—represent Christ’s sacrifice and divine protection. These coverings point to the redemptive work of Christ, who provided the ultimate covering for our sins and the security we need to approach God. As we apply these truths to our lives, we are reminded to live with a sense of reverence and gratitude for the covering we have in Christ, who is our eternal protection and refuge.
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