Exodus 35:21
And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the LORD'S offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all his service, and for the holy garments.
Exodus 35:21 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, it is described how the people who were willing and had a heart stirred to serve the Lord brought offerings for the construction of the tabernacle and all its related services. This verse emphasizes the importance of serving the Lord willingly and with a joyful heart. The people's offerings were not forced or obligatory, but rather a genuine expression of their devotion and commitment to the Lord. This act of giving reflects the people's desire to contribute to the work of the tabernacle and to support the sacred service being carried out. By willingly offering their resources and possessions, the people played a vital role in the establishment of the tabernacle as a place of worship and in the fulfillment of God's purposes for His people. Overall, this verse highlights the significance of voluntary giving and service in the worship of the Lord and in the advancement of His kingdom.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see the act of offering to the Lord as a response to a stirring in the hearts of the people. It highlights the importance of willing and joyful giving in the context of worship. The phrase "whose heart stirred him up" speaks to the prompting of the Holy Spirit within individuals to contribute to the work of the tabernacle. This highlights the intimate connection between the spiritual and physical aspects of worship, indicating that true giving should come from a place of genuine desire. Additionally, the mention of the "holy garments" emphasizes the sacred nature of the offerings being made, as they are intended for use in the service of God. Through this act of giving, the people demonstrate their commitment to the Lord and His work, illustrating an important aspect of faith - responsive and joyful stewardship of one's resources for the glory of God.
Exodus 35:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, [and] brought Jehovah's offering, for the work of the tent of meeting, and for all the service thereof, and for the holy garments.
World English Bible
They came, everyone whose heart stirred him up, and everyone whom his spirit made willing, and brought Yahweh’s offering, for the work of the Tent of Meeting, and for all of its service, and for the holy garments.
Douay-Rheims
Offered firstfruits to the Lord with a most ready and devout mind, to make the work of the tabernacle of the testimony. Whatever was necessary to the service and to the holy vestments,
Geneva Bible (1599)
And euery one, whose heart encouraged him, and euery one, whose spirit made him willing, came and brought an offring to the Lord, for the worke of the Tabernacle of the Congregation, and for all his vses, and for the holy garments.