Topical Encyclopedia Verse: "The bronze from the wave offering totaled seventy talents and 2,400 shekels." (Exodus 38:29) Context and Background: Exodus 38:29 is situated within the broader narrative of the construction of the Tabernacle, a central place of worship for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. This chapter details the materials used and the craftsmanship involved in creating the Tabernacle and its furnishings, as commanded by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. The Tabernacle served as a tangible representation of God's presence among His people and was a precursor to the Temple in Jerusalem. Analysis: The verse specifically mentions the amount of bronze collected from the wave offering, which was seventy talents and 2,400 shekels. This offering was part of the contributions made by the Israelites for the construction of the Tabernacle. The wave offering, a type of peace offering, involved the presentation of materials or sacrifices before the Lord, symbolizing the dedication and consecration of these gifts for divine purposes. The use of bronze in the Tabernacle was significant. Bronze was a durable and valuable metal, often associated with strength and judgment. In the Tabernacle, bronze was used for the altar of burnt offering, the basin for washing, and various utensils, all of which played crucial roles in the sacrificial system and the purification rituals of the Israelites. Theological Significance: The detailed accounting of materials in Exodus 38 underscores the importance of obedience and precision in worship. The Israelites' contributions reflect their willingness to give generously and sacrificially for the work of God. This act of giving was not merely a physical contribution but a spiritual act of worship, demonstrating their commitment to the covenant relationship with Yahweh. Moreover, the use of bronze in the Tabernacle can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Just as the bronze altar was central to the sacrificial system, pointing to the need for atonement, so too does Christ's sacrifice on the cross fulfill the ultimate atonement for sin, offering believers a way to be reconciled with God. Practical Application: Exodus 38:29 invites believers to reflect on their own contributions to the work of God. It challenges individuals to consider how they can offer their resources, talents, and time for the advancement of God's kingdom. The verse also serves as a reminder of the importance of community in worship, as the collective offerings of the Israelites enabled the construction of a sacred space where God's presence could dwell among them. In contemporary Christian practice, this passage encourages a spirit of generosity and dedication to the church and its mission. It calls believers to participate actively in the life of their faith community, contributing to the building up of the body of Christ and the furtherance of the gospel. Concordance 2400 (1 Occurrence)Exodus 38:29 Thesaurus 2400 (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance 2400 (1 Occurrence). Exodus 38:29 The brass of the offering was seventy talents, and two thousand four hundred shekels. (See NAS NIV). ... /num/2400.htm - 6k 2322 (1 Occurrence) 2600 (1 Occurrence) Tabernacle (333 Occurrences) Valley (187 Occurrences) Jordan (188 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |