6 The exact meaning of the Hebrew word here is difficult to determine. The term תַּחַשׁ (takhash) has been translated “badgers’ [skins]” by . has “sealskin” while uses “goatskin”; and have “porpoise skin,” and has “hides of sea cows.” This is close to “porpoise,” and seems influenced by the Arabic. The evidence is not strong for any of these meanings, and some of the suggestions would be problematic. It is possible the word is simply used for “fine leather,” based on the Egyptian ths. This has been followed by (“fine leather”) and (“fine goatskin leather”) along with the present translation. See further תַּחַשׁ.

In other versions

ESVEnglish Standard Version

Then they shall put on it a covering of goatskin and spread on top of that a cloth all of blue, and shall put in its poles.

NIVNew International Version (2011)

Then they are to cover the curtain with a durable leather, spread a cloth of solid blue over that and put the poles in place.

CSBChristian Standard Bible

They are to place over this a covering made of fine leather, spread a solid blue cloth on top, and insert its poles.

NLTNew Living Translation

Then they must cover the inner curtain with fine goatskin leather and spread over that a single piece of blue cloth. Finally, they must put the carrying poles of the Ark in place.

LEBThe Lexham English Bible

They will put on it a covering of fine leather, and they will spread a cloth of perfect blue over it, and they will place its poles.

KJV 1900King James Version

And shall put thereon the covering of badgers’ skins, and shall spread over it a cloth wholly of blue, and shall put in the staves thereof.

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