Exodus 39:34 Meaning and Explanation
“And the covering of rams' skins dyed red, and the covering of badgers' skins, and the vail of the covering,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The fabric coverings for the tabernacle—dyed ram skins, badger skins, and the inner veil—were presented.
The Context of Exodus 39:34
The external and internal coverings of the tabernacle are listed.
What Does Exodus 39:34 Mean?
The coverings served both practical and symbolic purposes. The outer layer of red-dyed ram skins was durable and visible; the badger-skin layer beneath provided additional protection and weatherproofing. Together, they created a multi-layered defense that protected the holy items inside from the elements and from unauthorized entry.
The mention of coverings emphasizes protection: what was holy needed to be guarded. The materials themselves—animal skins, durable and humble—reminded the people that the tabernacle's purpose was not earthly luxury but the preservation and accessibility of divine presence amid an ordinary, sometimes hostile world.
Exodus 39:34 in the Original Language
coverings (מִכְסֶה) — coverings or protective layers; rams' skins (עֹרוֹת אֵילִם) — hides of male sheep; badgers' skins (עֹרוֹת תְּחָשִׁים) — possibly a seal or badger-like animal
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 39:34
What does Exodus 39:34 mean?
The fabric coverings for the tabernacle—dyed ram skins, badger skins, and the inner veil—were presented.
What is the context of Exodus 39:34?
The external and internal coverings of the tabernacle are listed.