NOTES for Exo 37:1-29
What makes these gold ornaments, angels, leaves, and faces different from the calf built by the people (see Exod 32)? At first glance, this describes the careful making of objects that will likewise be objects of worship. But the point is precisely that only God can be worshiped, and a person is called to use everything he has for His sake. The sanctuary is to be adorned; the most precious and valuable things are to be brought. Every object sanctified by the presence of God should be beautiful in appearance and precious. By itself this object means nothing. It merely expresses reverence and adoration before God.