Exodus 31

Chapter 31: The Craftsman Bezalel and the Sabbath

Background History and Timeline: Exodus continues the narrative of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, following their deliverance from Egypt. The events likely occurred around the late 15th or early 14th century BCE.

Locations Mentioned: The chapter primarily focuses on the appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab as craftsmen for the construction of the tabernacle.

Themes and Conflicts: Exodus 31 elaborates on the importance of craftsmanship, creativity, and the observance of the Sabbath. It underscores the role of skilled artisans in the construction of the tabernacle and emphasizes the sanctity of the Sabbath as a day of rest and worship.

Main Characters: The main characters in this chapter include Moses, Bezalel, Oholiab, and the Israelites.

Specific Passages:

• Exodus 31:1-11: The appointment of Bezalel and Oholiab as craftsmen filled with the Spirit of God, tasked with creating the furnishings and utensils for the tabernacle.

• Exodus 31:12-17: Instructions for the observance of the Sabbath as a sign of the covenant between God and His people, emphasizing its importance and sanctity.

Explanation: In Exodus 31, God appoints Bezalel and Oholiab as craftsmen filled with the Spirit of God, empowering them with the skills and abilities needed to construct the tabernacle and its furnishings. Bezalel is specifically mentioned as a skilled craftsman in gold, silver, bronze, stone cutting, and woodworking, while Oholiab is designated as his assistant.

God provides them with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship, enabling them to carry out the intricate work required for the tabernacle according to His specifications.

The chapter also emphasizes the importance of observing the Sabbath as a sign of the covenant between God and His people. The Sabbath is to be a day of rest and worship, set apart from the other days of the week. Anyone who profanes the Sabbath is to be put to death, underscoring the seriousness of Sabbath observance in Israelite society.

Exodus 31 underscores the value of skilled craftsmanship and creativity in the service of God. Bezalel and Oholiab exemplify the idea that artistic talents and abilities can be used for sacred purposes, contributing to the construction of a space dedicated to worship and communion with God.

The observance of the Sabbath serves as a reminder of God's rest after the work of creation and as a symbol of His covenant relationship with His people. It reinforces the importance of rest, worship, and spiritual renewal in the rhythm of life.

The authorship of Exodus is traditionally attributed to Moses, who recorded the events and interactions with God during the Israelites' journey to liberation. While non-biblical sources may not directly verify the specific accounts, archaeological evidence corroborates aspects of ancient Israelite history and culture, providing context for the biblical narrative.

Exodus 31 highlights the role of skilled artisans in the construction of the tabernacle and emphasizes the sanctity of the Sabbath as a day of rest and worship.