Exodus 38 Study Notes

38:8 Since the instructions for the tabernacle do not refer to the women who served at the entrance to the tent of meeting, little is known about them beyond this mention (cp. 1Sm 2:22-25). The Hebrew verb that describes their service is somewhat rare; a related noun and this verb also describe service by Levites at the tabernacle (Nm 4:23; 8:24). Its connections with military service give it overtones of organization and service in the sense of being “on duty” (cp. 2Kg 25:19). A letter written in the mid-fourteenth century BC indirectly shows the value of this donation; the letter mentions a shipment of mirrors from Egypt to the king of Babylon.

38:21 The inventory was appropriate even when supplies were plentiful. It promoted order, showed concern for conservation rather than waste or theft, and let people know what had been accomplished with their offerings. Similar accountings are known from Egyptian records.

38:26 Each man moved from one group to another when he had paid his half a shekel (30:11-16).