Exodus 39:34 - the covering of rams’ skins dyed red, the covering of sea cow hides, the veil of the screen,

Generated Verse: Exodus 39:34

What does "Exodus 39:34" mean?


This verse is part of a detailed inventory of the materials used to construct the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary the Israelites built in the wilderness after the Exodus. Let's break down each element:

"The covering of rams’ skins dyed red": This refers to one of the layers of the Tabernacle's roof. Rams' skins were durable and provided protection from the elements. Dyeing them red likely added to the visual richness and symbolic importance of the structure. The specific shade of red may have had symbolic significance, possibly relating to atonement or sacrifice.

"The covering of sea cow hides": The Hebrew word translated as "sea cow" is tachash (תחשׁ). The exact animal it refers to is uncertain. It could have been a sea cow (dugong or manatee), or a type of seal, dolphin, or even a badger. Regardless, these hides were known for their durability and water resistance, making them an ideal outer layer of the Tabernacle's roof. They protected the more ornate layers beneath from the weather. This was the outermost covering, and therefore would have given the Tabernacle its outward appearance. It was most likely very plain and undecorated.

"The veil of the screen": This refers to the screen placed at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. It was made of finely woven linen embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet threads (Exodus 36:37). It separated the holy space from the outside world.

In Summary:

This verse is a list of specific materials used to build different parts of the Tabernacle, particularly the roof and the entrance to the holy space.

The rams' skins dyed red and sea cow hides formed the outer coverings of the Tabernacle, offering protection and visual distinction.
The veil of the screen marked the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, symbolizing the boundary between the sacred and the profane.

These materials were essential components of the Tabernacle, which served as a physical representation of God's presence among the Israelites and a place for worship and sacrifice.

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