Betsalel: Called by Name to Build for God

Betsalel is a key figure in the Bible, mentioned mainly in Exodus 31:1–11 and Exodus 35–36. God specifically chose him to be the chief artisan of the tabernacle and its sacred furnishings, including the Ark of the Covenant. He was from the tribe of Judah, the son of Uri, and grandson of Hur.

God gifted Betsalel with exceptional wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and craftsmanship in all kinds of artistic work—metalworking, woodcarving, and designing intricate patterns. Exodus 31:3 says: “And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.” He also worked alongside Oholiab from the tribe of Dan.

Bezalel represents God’s choice of skilled, faithful individuals to accomplish His purposes. His story highlights that God values not just heart and devotion, but also talents and skills used for His service.

Betsalel, the man chosen by name by God to make the tabernacle where God planned to dwell with his people. This story imaginatively tries to understand the meaning of the ancient Jewish sanctuary and its services from the perspective of a group of young Israelites wandering in the desert for forty years. The lessons they might have derived from their discussions with Betsalel are explored. Betsalel connects them with Moses, inspires them to teach others, so that on the borders of the promised land the people are ready to move forward and follow God’s plans for conquest. The narrative also explores how understanding the tabernacle services can inform Christian theology and prophetic interpretation.

“When we read some descriptions of the Tabernacle in the Pentateuch, it can be rather boring and distant from us. But this book makes it interesting through imaginative dialogues between characters in the story. With wit and simplicity, the questions many would struggle with reading through the Pentateuch are beautifully answered. I would recommend it to anyone.”—DANIELA SCHUBERT, senior executive, Operation Food for Life

“Elizabeth Ostring promises a work of ‘imaginative narrative theology,’ and she delivers on her promise. She brings to life biblical characters left at the margins, proving that they are worth our time. Ostring shows that their journey in ancient times offers direction for us and that we, too, are called by name to build for God. I found many illuminating surprises in her book and much food for thought.”—SIGVE K. TONSTAD, research professor of biblical interpretation, Loma Linda University

“This book is meticulously researched and well written. It is educational, engaging, and manages complicated subjects candidly and compassionately. The stories come alive and become relevant to today. I enjoyed the attention to detail and vibrant colors as well as relatable, well-rounded characters. This book is sure to appeal to everyone, young and old and is a must-read for all.”—ADRIENNE ACKERMANN, retired general practitioner

“I have been reading Betsalel with delight and in detail. This is an important book with nothing else like it. It is perfect for teens, though young people and adults will also enjoy it. The world needs this book.”—EILEEN BAILDAM, elder, Ringway Seventh Day Adventist Church

ELIZABETH ELLEN OSTRING, MB, ChB, MMin, PhD, a retired physician, married, with adult twins, is currently an adjunct lecturer in the Theology Department of Avondale University, Australia, and has pastoral roles in her local church. She and her husband worked as missionaries in Asia for many years, before running their own practice. She is the author of Just 30 Minutes (2013), Crafting a Symphony in Wood (2016), Be a Blessing (2016), Tyra (2021), and Hannah (2024).