The $62 million tabernacle

 Welcome to the Daily Bible Chapter. My name is James Leroy Wilson and I invite you to join me as we discover new insights and new perspectives from a very old book.

Exodus 35

I'm reading Young's Literal Translation (YLT) and the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV).

Once again Moses says that the LORD commands the death penalty for those who do any work on the Sabbath. It's a very serious matter. You would think that the Israelites were made for the Sabbath..

The rest of the chapter indicates that the Israelites had nice things, very nice things. I think the most interesting thing about the chapter is that they weren't commanded to offer them to the tabernacle, but only if their heart was stirred to do so. Apparently the LORD and Moses didn't want to treat them like slaves.

On the other hand, the previous chapters show us that the LORD's presence was made known to the Israelites through the "cloud" over the tent of meeting. I know I would have been frightened enough to hand over whatever was asked of me.

Chapters 36, 37, and 38

Well, the freewill offerings were more than enough for the tabernacle. It goes to show what can be achieved when people are asked to give, but not coerced.

The details of the tabernacle's construction and the making of its furnishings are testaments to vision (the LORD's vision as told to Moses) and craftsmanship. Beautiful surroundings are good, and I think the intention is to impress the reader of the importance and grandness of the tabernacle.

This is an informal estimate , but the cost of the tabernacle might have been $62 million (based on 2012 gold and silver prices). That would have been a little over $100 from each Israelite man.

James Leroy Wilson writes Daily Miracles, The Daily Bible Chapter, JL Cells, and The MVP Chase. Thanks for your subscriptions and support!

(Photo credit: TyshkunVictor)