King James Version

What Does Exodus 25:5 Mean?

Exodus 25:5 in the King James Version says “And rams' skins dyed red, and badgers' skins, and shittim wood, — study this verse from Exodus chapter 25 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And rams' skins dyed red, and badgers' skins, and shittim wood,

Exodus 25:5 · KJV


Context

3

And this is the offering which ye shall take of them; gold, and silver, and brass, offering: or, heave offering

4

And blue, and purple, and scarlet , and fine linen, and goats' hair, fine: or, silk

5

And rams' skins dyed red, and badgers' skins, and shittim wood,

6

Oil for the light, spices for anointing oil, and for sweet incense,

7

Onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Materials continue to be listed comprehensively, showing God's attention to detail. Every element—from the structural (acacia wood) to the decorative (precious stones)—matters in constructing His dwelling place. This exhaustive inventory teaches that nothing is too small or insignificant when devoted to God's service. All of creation is marshaled to house His presence.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The badger/dugong skins (Hebrew תְּחָשִׁים, techashim, possibly marine mammals from the Red Sea) provided waterproof protection. Even practical, humble materials serve essential purposes in God's design.

Reflection Questions

  1. What 'practical' or 'humble' elements of your life serve essential purposes in God's plan?
  2. How does God's attention to detail encourage you about His care for your life?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וְעֹרֹ֥ת1 of 7

skins

H5785

skin (as naked); by implication, hide, leather

אֵילִ֧ם2 of 7

And rams

H352

properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree

מְאָדָּמִ֛ים3 of 7

dyed red

H119

to show blood (in the face), i.e., flush or turn rosy

וְעֹרֹ֥ת4 of 7

skins

H5785

skin (as naked); by implication, hide, leather

תְּחָשִׁ֖ים5 of 7

and badgers

H8476

a (clean) animal with fur, probably a species of antelope

וַֽעֲצֵ֥י6 of 7

wood

H6086

a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)

שִׁטִּֽים׃7 of 7

and shittim

H7848

the acacia (from its scourging thorns)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 25:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Exodus 25:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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