Who is…
Oholiab

also known as: Aholiab

Meaning: tent of the father; father’s tent

Aholiab is an ancient skilled artisan of the tribe of Dan who was among the Israelites who left Egypt in the Exodus. His father is Ahisamach (aka Ahisamakh) (Exodus 31:6).

Yahweh appointed Oholiab to the work of preparing high quality materials and furnishings needed for the Holy Tabernacle, as described by God Himself (Exo. 36:1-2).

And behold, I Myself have appointed with him Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and in the hearts of all who are wise at heart I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded you: —Exodus 31:6

In addition to being honored as a man of wisdom and knowledge, Oholiab is called “a craftsman and a skillful designer and a weaver in blue and in purple and in scarlet material and fine linen” (Exo. 38:23). He worked on this vital project sometime between Mt. Sinai and the wanderings in the wilderness.

His teacher and overseer was the skilled Bezalel (aka Bezaleel) (Exo. 35:34). Oholiab seems to have been his number one man in the project, so Oholiab would have also been involved in constructing the Ark of the Covenant, and in all parts of sanctuary—the needed carpentry, furniture, metalwork, precious metals, dyes, fabrics, precious stones, altars, vessels, required garments for Aaron as High Priest, etc.

It was a very daunting job for many reasons, especially considering that they were far from major marketplaces and cities where supplies could be purchased. But God supplied all that was needed, in one way or another.

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Article Version: January 24, 2025