share torah logo

Exodus 35:6 - Colors of sacred Tabernacle materials

Exodus 35:6 - שמות 35:6

Hebrew Text

וּתְכֵלֶת וְאַרְגָּמָן וְתוֹלַעַת שָׁנִי וְשֵׁשׁ וְעִזִּים׃

English Translation

and blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats’ hair,

Transliteration

V'techelet v'argaman v'tola'at shani v'shesh v'izim

Hebrew Leining Text

וּתְכֵ֧לֶת וְאַרְגָּמָ֛ן וְתוֹלַ֥עַת שָׁנִ֖י וְשֵׁ֥שׁ וְעִזִּֽים׃
וּתְכֵ֧לֶת וְאַרְגָּמָ֛ן וְתוֹלַ֥עַת שָׁנִ֖י וְשֵׁ֥שׁ וְעִזִּֽים׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Colors and Materials in the Mishkan

The verse lists materials used in the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle), each carrying deep symbolic meaning according to traditional Jewish sources:

  • תכלת (Tekhelet - Blue): Rashi (Shemot 25:4) explains that this deep blue dye, derived from the Chilazon sea creature, resembles the color of the heavens, reminding us of the Divine Presence (Shechinah). The Talmud (Menachot 43b) teaches that wearing Tekhelet on tzitzit helps one remember mitzvot, as the blue evokes the sea, which reflects the sky, which in turn points to Hashem's throne.
  • ארגמן (Argaman - Purple): Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 8:13) describes this as a royal color, symbolizing the majesty of the Mishkan as the dwelling place of the King of Kings. The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 12:4) connects it to the concept of מלכות (kingship).
  • תולעת שני (Tola'at Shani - Scarlet): Ibn Ezra (Shemot 25:4) notes this vibrant red comes from a worm, teaching humility - that even the lowest creature contributes to Divine service. The Zohar (Terumah 170a) associates it with the attribute of גבורה (strength/judgment).
  • שש (Shesh - Fine Linen): Rashi (Shemot 26:1) explains this refers to six-ply linen threads, representing refinement in serving Hashem. The Talmud (Yoma 71b) connects white linen to atonement and purity.
  • עזים (Izim - Goats' Hair): The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 35:5) teaches this represents protection, as goats' hair was used for the outer covering of the Mishkan, shielding the sacred interior just as the Jewish people are protected by Hashem.

Symbolic Unity

The Kli Yakar (Shemot 25:4) explains these materials correspond to different aspects of divine service: Tekhelet represents heavenly aspirations, Argaman represents royal devotion, Tola'at Shani represents passionate commitment, Shesh represents pure intentions, and Izim represents practical protection - showing that complete avodat Hashem requires multiple dimensions working in harmony.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Yoma 71b
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the materials used for the priestly garments, particularly the High Priest's attire.
📖 Menachot 42b
The verse is cited in the context of discussing the types of materials and colors used in the construction of the Tabernacle and its utensils.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What do the colors blue, purple, and scarlet represent in Exodus 35:6?
A: According to Rashi and other commentators, these colors were used in the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and the priestly garments. The blue (תְּכֵלֶת - techelet) represents the heavens and divine connection, purple (אַרְגָּמָן - argaman) symbolizes royalty, and scarlet (תּוֹלַעַת שָׁנִי - tola'at shani) represents atonement and sacrifice.
Q: Why were fine linen and goats' hair mentioned in Exodus 35:6?
A: Fine linen (שֵׁשׁ - shesh) was used for the priestly garments and the Mishkan's curtains, symbolizing purity and refinement. Goats' hair (עִזִּים - izzim) was used for the outer covering of the Mishkan, representing durability and protection, as taught in the Talmud (Shabbat 28a) and Midrash.
Q: What is the significance of these materials in the Mishkan?
A: These materials were donated by the Israelites for building the Mishkan, as described in Exodus 35. Each material had a specific purpose, reflecting the holiness and order of the Mishkan. The Rambam explains that the use of these materials teaches us about the importance of dedicating our finest resources to serving Hashem.
Q: How does the concept of donating materials for the Mishkan apply today?
A: The donation of materials for the Mishkan teaches the value of contributing to holy causes with generosity and joy. Today, this applies to supporting synagogues, Torah study, and acts of kindness, as the Midrash teaches that our contributions should be given with a full heart, just as the Israelites gave willingly (Shemot Rabbah 33:6).
Q: What is the spiritual meaning behind the colors and materials in this verse?
A: The colors and materials symbolize different spiritual qualities. Techelet (blue) reminds us of the heavens and mitzvot (Menachot 43b), argaman (purple) represents humility despite royalty, and tola'at shani (scarlet) signifies repentance. The fine linen and goats' hair teach balance between refinement and practicality in serving Hashem, as explained in Kabbalistic sources like the Zohar.