How does Exodus 26:33 illustrate the separation between the holy and most holy? “Hang the veil under the clasps, and bring the ark of the Testimony behind the veil, so the veil will separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place.” Tabernacle Layout at a Glance • Courtyard – open to all consecrated worshipers • Holy Place – entered daily by priests for lampstand, bread, and incense ministry (Exodus 26:35; 30:7-8) • Most Holy Place – housing the Ark and God’s manifest presence, entered only by the high priest once a year (Leviticus 16:2, 34) The Veil: Material and Meaning • Blue, purple, scarlet yarn, fine linen, skilled work with cherubim (Exodus 26:31) • Hung “under the clasps,” firmly fixed—no casual crossing • Function: “separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place” (v. 33) • Visual lesson: holiness increases the closer one approaches God’s presence Separation Emphasized • Physical barrier: an embroidered wall where ministry stopped • Limited access: only the high priest, only with blood, only once yearly (Leviticus 16:11-15) • Death warning: unauthorized entry meant death (Leviticus 16:2) • Sin’s reality: humanity kept at a distance until atonement is made The Veil and God’s Character • God is holy—distinct, pure, unapproachable in sin (Isaiah 6:3) • Mercy balanced with justice—He provides a way, yet maintains boundaries • Cherubim imagery recalls Eden’s guarded gate (Genesis 3:24), underscoring lost fellowship Foreshadows and Fulfillment • Hebrews 9:7-8 – the veil shows “the way into the Most Holy Place had not yet been disclosed” • Matthew 27:51 – “the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom” at Christ’s death • Hebrews 10:19-20 – Jesus’ flesh called “the veil,” giving believers “boldness to enter the Most Holy Place” Practical Takeaways for Today • God’s holiness remains unchanged; sin still separates (Romans 3:23) • Christ’s sacrifice removed the barrier, granting direct access by faith (Ephesians 2:13-18) • Approach God with reverence and gratitude, remembering the cost of that torn veil (Hebrews 4:16) |
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