Ex 35 – Then Moses said to the Israelites, “See, the LORD has chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills — to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic crafts. And he has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others. He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers—all of them skilled workers and designers.
Michael Fallon Biblical Commentary
World behind the text. Many of the Israelites of the late 6th century were to sent into exile. The prophets informed people that their behaviour both to each other but also in relation to God were not at rights. People’s sense of identity was really at the crossroads.
World of the text. Artisans of all kinds were called upon to make the elements for the sanctuary. What makes this even more profound is that the materials were donated by the ordinary people. Peoples skill and artistry was profoundly acknowledged.
The world in front of the text is for us to explore…
I am thinking about all forms of art which is not just about information but about ideas and experiences that shape our everyday lives. It is the creative and inspires a better world. All creativity is God in action.