Exodus 25

Exodus 25 read aloud, in a fresh direct translation from the Hebrew — plain modern English, nothing added. Translator's notes: • Exodus 25:5 — תחשים (techashim): chose “tachash skins”. Alternatives: “dolphin skins”, “badger skins”, “fine leather”. Why: the animal meant by tachash is uncertain, so the name is kept. • Exodus 25:17 — כפרת (kapporet): chose “cover”. Alternatives: “mercy seat”, “atonement cover”. Why: the word names the ark's lid and is related to the verb for making atonement; “cover” keeps the plain sense.