Exodus 36:19 - He made a covering for the tent of rams’ skins dyed red, and a covering of sea cow hides above.
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What does "Exodus 36:19" mean?
This verse from Exodus 36:19 describes one layer of the Tabernacle's covering. Let's break it down:
"He made a covering for the tent..." This refers to a specific layer of the coverings for the Tabernacle. The Tabernacle was the portable sanctuary that the Israelites carried with them during their wanderings in the wilderness. It housed the Ark of the Covenant and was the central place of worship.
"...of rams’ skins dyed red..." This describes one of the layers of the Tabernacle covering.
Rams' skins: These were the hides of male sheep.
Dyed red: The skins were intentionally dyed red, likely using a natural dye. Red held symbolic significance in ancient cultures and possibly in Israelite tradition, representing blood, sacrifice, or royalty.
"...and a covering of sea cow hides above." This refers to another layer placed on top of the rams' skins.
Sea cow hides: The Hebrew word translated as "sea cow" is "tachash" (תחש). The exact animal is debated among scholars. Possibilities include:
Dugong or Sea Cow (Manatee): These marine mammals were known in the region.
A species of dolphin or porpoise.
A type of cured leather: Some scholars believe the term refers to a specially treated, durable leather rather than a specific animal. This could explain how it would have been available in the desert.
Badger skins: This is an older, less accepted translation.
Above: This indicates that this layer was the outermost layer, providing the most exposure to the elements. Given the potential interpretations of the "tachash," it's likely this layer was chosen for its durability and water resistance.
In Summary:
The verse describes a layered covering for the Tabernacle:
1. Rams' Skins Dyed Red: An inner layer, possibly for aesthetic and symbolic purposes.
2. Sea Cow (or Durable Leather) Hides: An outer, more durable and waterproof layer to protect the Tabernacle from the elements.
Significance:
Practical Protection: The layered coverings served a practical purpose, protecting the Tabernacle from the sun, rain, and wind of the desert.
Symbolism: The materials and colors may have had symbolic meaning, reflecting the holiness and importance of the Tabernacle.
Resourcefulness: The Israelites used available resources, including animal hides, to construct their sanctuary.
God's Provision: The ability to acquire these materials, whether through trade, hunting, or divine provision, was seen as a sign of God's care for His people.
The precise significance and nature of the "sea cow hides" remain a matter of scholarly debate. However, the overall picture is one of a carefully constructed and symbolically rich covering for the Tabernacle, designed to protect the sacred space and reflect the glory of God.
Exodus 36:19 - He made a covering for the tent of rams’ skins dyed red, and a covering of sea cow hides above.
What does "Exodus 36:19" mean?
This verse from Exodus 36:19 describes one layer of the Tabernacle's covering. Let's break it down:
"He made a covering for the tent..." This refers to a specific layer of the coverings for the Tabernacle. The Tabernacle was the portable sanctuary that the Israelites carried with them during their wanderings in the wilderness. It housed the Ark of the Covenant and was the central place of worship.
"...of rams’ skins dyed red..." This describes one of the layers of the Tabernacle covering.
Rams' skins: These were the hides of male sheep.
Dyed red: The skins were intentionally dyed red, likely using a natural dye. Red held symbolic significance in ancient cultures and possibly in Israelite tradition, representing blood, sacrifice, or royalty.
"...and a covering of sea cow hides above." This refers to another layer placed on top of the rams' skins.
Sea cow hides: The Hebrew word translated as "sea cow" is "tachash" (תחש). The exact animal is debated among scholars. Possibilities include:
Dugong or Sea Cow (Manatee): These marine mammals were known in the region.
A species of dolphin or porpoise.
A type of cured leather: Some scholars believe the term refers to a specially treated, durable leather rather than a specific animal. This could explain how it would have been available in the desert.
Badger skins: This is an older, less accepted translation.
Above: This indicates that this layer was the outermost layer, providing the most exposure to the elements. Given the potential interpretations of the "tachash," it's likely this layer was chosen for its durability and water resistance.
In Summary:
The verse describes a layered covering for the Tabernacle:
1. Rams' Skins Dyed Red: An inner layer, possibly for aesthetic and symbolic purposes.
2. Sea Cow (or Durable Leather) Hides: An outer, more durable and waterproof layer to protect the Tabernacle from the elements.
Significance:
Practical Protection: The layered coverings served a practical purpose, protecting the Tabernacle from the sun, rain, and wind of the desert.
Symbolism: The materials and colors may have had symbolic meaning, reflecting the holiness and importance of the Tabernacle.
Resourcefulness: The Israelites used available resources, including animal hides, to construct their sanctuary.
God's Provision: The ability to acquire these materials, whether through trade, hunting, or divine provision, was seen as a sign of God's care for His people.
The precise significance and nature of the "sea cow hides" remain a matter of scholarly debate. However, the overall picture is one of a carefully constructed and symbolically rich covering for the Tabernacle, designed to protect the sacred space and reflect the glory of God.