Additionally, he made for the tent a covering of ram skins dyed redThe use of ram skins dyed red for the tabernacle's covering is significant in several ways. Rams were considered valuable animals, often used in sacrifices, symbolizing substitution and atonement. The red dye likely symbolizes blood, pointing to the sacrificial system and ultimately to the blood of Christ, who is the ultimate sacrifice for sin (
Hebrews 9:22). The use of dyed skins also indicates the importance of the tabernacle as a holy place, set apart for God's presence among His people. The meticulous detail in the construction of the tabernacle reflects the care and reverence required in worshiping God.
and over that a covering of fine leather
The fine leather, sometimes translated as "sea cow hides" or "badger skins," served as an additional protective layer for the tabernacle. This outermost covering provided durability and protection from the elements, ensuring the tabernacle's longevity as the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness. The use of fine leather signifies the provision and care of God for His dwelling place, ensuring it was safeguarded against external threats. This layer can also be seen as a type of Christ, who covers and protects His people, providing a refuge and shelter (Psalm 91:4). The dual coverings highlight the balance of beauty and practicality in God's design, emphasizing both the spiritual and physical aspects of His covenant with Israel.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
Bezalel and OholiabSkilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. They were filled with the Spirit of God, wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship (
Exodus 31:1-6).
2.
The TabernacleA portable sanctuary used by the Israelites as a place of worship during their journey through the wilderness. It was a central place for God's presence among His people.
3.
Ram Skins Dyed RedA specific material used for the outer covering of the Tabernacle. The red dye likely symbolized sacrifice and atonement, pointing to the future sacrifice of Christ.
4.
Fine LeatherThe outermost covering of the Tabernacle, providing protection from the elements. The Hebrew term "tachash" is often debated, but it signifies a durable and protective material.
5.
The Wilderness JourneyThe context in which the Tabernacle was constructed, representing the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, a time of reliance on God's provision and guidance.
Teaching Points
Symbolism of SacrificeThe use of ram skins dyed red in the Tabernacle's covering symbolizes the necessity of sacrifice for atonement. This points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who covers our sins with His blood.
God's Detailed InstructionsThe meticulous details given for the Tabernacle's construction remind us of God's order and precision. We are called to follow His instructions in our lives with the same attention to detail.
Protection and ProvisionThe fine leather covering represents God's protection over His people. Just as the Tabernacle was shielded from the elements, God provides spiritual and physical protection for us today.
Presence of GodThe Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence among His people. In our lives, we are called to be aware of and cherish God's presence, seeking to dwell with Him daily.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Exodus 36:19?
2.How does Exodus 36:19 demonstrate God's attention to detail in His instructions?
3.What materials were used for the tent covering, and why are they significant?
4.How can we apply the principle of excellence in our service to God?
5.In what ways does Exodus 36:19 connect to the broader theme of obedience?
6.How does the craftsmanship in Exodus 36:19 reflect God's character and creativity?
7.What is the significance of the ram skins and hides in Exodus 36:19?
8.How do the coverings in Exodus 36:19 reflect God's instructions for the Tabernacle?
9.Why were specific materials chosen for the Tabernacle's covering in Exodus 36:19?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Exodus 36?
11.Why is there so little archaeological evidence for a massive tabernacle project described in Exodus 36?
12.(Exodus 35) From a historical or archeological standpoint, where did the wandering Israelites obtain such large quantities of gold, silver, and other precious materials?
13.Exodus 26:14 - What evidence exists that these exact layers of ram skins and sea cow hides (or 'porpoise skins') ever existed as described?
14.Is there any historical record or physical evidence (Exodus 29:1-9) that the elaborate priestly garments and ordination ceremonies described actually took place as written?What Does Exodus 36:19 Mean
Additionally, he made• The words signal a careful continuation of obedience to the Lord’s blueprint first given inExodus 26:1–14.
• Bezalel and the craftsmen keep adding exactly whatExodus 36:1 calls “every skill” set apart “to do the work just as the LORD has commanded.”
• Cross references:Exodus 35:30–35;Exodus 36:1;Exodus 40:16.
for the tent• The “tent” is the Tabernacle—the earthly dwelling where God chose to place His name and glory (Exodus 29:42–46).
• Every layer safeguards the sacred space where sacrifice, intercession, and divine communion take place (Leviticus 1:1;Numbers 7:89).
• This foreshadows God’s ultimate desire to dwell with His people (John 1:14;Revelation 21:3).
a covering of ram skins dyed red• Rams are linked to substitutionary sacrifice (Genesis 22:13;Exodus 29:15–18).
• The dyed-red hue vividly points to blood, anticipating the atoning work of Christ (Hebrews 9:22;1 Peter 1:18–19).
• The covering reminds worshipers that access to God is always through shed blood (Leviticus 17:11;Romans 3:25).
and over that• A second layer shows the Lord’s double care: protection upon protection (Psalm 91:4).
• It also marks a clear distinction—everything inside belongs wholly to God, while the outermost layer guards it from defilement (Exodus 26:14).
• Cross references:Deuteronomy 33:27;Isaiah 4:5–6.
a covering of fine leather• Fine leather (durable, weather-resistant) forms the Tabernacle’s first line of defense against desert sun, wind, and rain—mirroring God’s steadfast shelter (Psalm 121:5–8).
• The outer layer may look plain compared with gold and embroidery inside, yet it faithfully preserves the beauty within—a picture of Christ’s humble appearance shielding His divine glory (Isaiah 53:2;Philippians 2:7).
• Cross references:Ezekiel 16:10;Psalm 27:5.
summaryExodus 36:19 describes two protective coverings—ram skins dyed red and fine leather—added to the Tabernacle. The first, crimson and linked to sacrifice, proclaims that fellowship with God rests on atoning blood. The second, tough and unobtrusive, underscores God’s constant, practical care. Layer by layer, the verse showcases obedience to divine instruction, the safety of God’s presence, and a forward glance to Christ, who both covers sin and shelters His people forever.
(19) This verse corresponds exactly to
Exodus 26:14, and relates the construction of the two outer coverings.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Additionally, he madeוַיַּ֤עַשׂ(way·ya·‘aś)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6213:To do, makefor the tentלָאֹ֔הֶל(lā·’ō·hel)Preposition-l, Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 168:A tenta coveringמִכְסֶה֙(miḵ·seh)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4372:A covering, weatherboardingof ramאֵלִ֖ים(’ê·lîm)Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 352:Strength, strong, a chief, a ram, a pilaster, an oak, strong treeskinsעֹרֹ֥ת(‘ō·rōṯ)Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 5785:Skin, hide, leatherdyed red,מְאָדָּמִ֑ים(mə·’ād·dā·mîm)Verb - Pual - Participle - masculine plural
Strong's 119:Flush, turn rosyand overמִלְמָֽעְלָה׃(mil·mā·‘ə·lāh)Preposition-m, Preposition-l | Adverb | third person feminine singular
Strong's 4605:The upper part, with prefix upward, above, overhead, from the topthatס(s)Punctuation
Strong's Hebrewa coveringוּמִכְסֵ֛ה(ū·miḵ·sêh)Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4372:A covering, weatherboardingof fine leather.תְּחָשִׁ֖ים(tə·ḥā·šîm)Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 8476:Perhaps porpoise (a kind of leather or skin)
Links
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OT Law: Exodus 36:19 He made a covering for the tent (Exo. Ex) 
