Exodus 35:21 Meaning and Explanation
“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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The people voluntarily return, bringing offerings for the tabernacle construction and priestly vestments.
The Context of Exodus 35:21
The people's willing response begins: they bring offerings for the tabernacle.
What Does Exodus 35:21 Mean?
Those whose hearts were 'stirred up' and whose spirits were 'made willing' represent an internal motivation, not external compulsion. The repetition of these phrases emphasizes the voluntary nature: people gave because they genuinely wanted to, not because they were forced or even strongly persuaded. This stirring—described as something that happened to them—suggests a spiritual prompting, an inward movement toward participation. The phrase 'every one' underscores the inclusivity: rich and poor, young and old, skilled and unskilled could all respond.
The people brought 'the LORD's offering'—designating their gifts as given to God, not simply for a communal project. The breadth of their giving covered everything: 'the work' (materials and labor), 'his service' (the ongoing priestly function), and 'the holy garments' (the vestments). This comprehensive giving, emerging from willing hearts, fulfilled God's design: a sanctuary built not by decree but by the people's joyful participation.
Exodus 35:21 in the Original Language
nedabah (נְדָבָה), 'offering' — a freewill or voluntary offering; here the people actively bring it rather than being asked repeatedly or assessed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 35:21
What does Exodus 35:21 mean?
The people voluntarily return, bringing offerings for the tabernacle construction and priestly vestments.
What is the context of Exodus 35:21?
The people's willing response begins: they bring offerings for the tabernacle.