What connections exist between Exodus 39:34 and the construction of the Tabernacle? The Verse in Focus “the covering of ram skins dyed red, the covering of fine leather, and the veil of the screen;” (Exodus 39:34) From Blueprint to Build • Exodus 25–31: God gives detailed blueprints to Moses. • Exodus 39:34 records the craftsmen completing three specific items exactly as commanded—clear evidence that what God designs, He expects to be carried out precisely (cf. Exodus 25:9; 31:11). • The verse sits in a running inventory that proves every prescribed component of the Tabernacle has now moved from divine plan to finished reality. Layered Coverings and Their Meaning 1. Covering of ram skins dyed red • First mentioned in Exodus 26:14. • Rams were substitutionary sacrifices (Genesis 22:13; Exodus 29:15). • The red dye echoes blood, foreshadowing atonement fulfilled in Christ (Hebrews 9:12). 2. Covering of fine leather • Also in Exodus 26:14. • Provides durability and weatherproofing—God’s dwelling needed literal protection, underscoring both His holiness and His condescension to live among a pilgrim people. 3. Veil of the screen • Parallels Exodus 26:36–37. • Separates Holy Place from courtyard, proclaiming that access to God is restricted apart from appointed mediation (Hebrews 9:7–8). Ensuring God’s Presence • When every item—including those in 39:34—stood ready, “the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle” (Exodus 40:34). • The physical layers safeguarded the sanctuary so the consuming holiness of God could dwell among sinners without destroying them (Exodus 33:20; Leviticus 16:2). Christ-Fulfilled Patterns • Just as multiple coverings shielded Israel, Christ’s righteousness now covers believers (Isaiah 61:10; Romans 3:24). • The veil symbolizes His flesh; at the cross “the veil of the temple was torn in two” (Luke 23:45), granting direct access (Hebrews 10:19–20). • In Jesus “the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us” (John 1:14), the ultimate, literal embodiment of what the Exodus coverings anticipated. |
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