Symbolism of veil in Exodus 40:28?
What does the "veil" in Exodus 40:28 symbolize in our spiritual lives?

Setting the Scene: Exodus 40:28

“Then he hung the curtain at the entrance to the tabernacle.” (Exodus 40:28)


What the Veil Meant for Israel

• A visible boundary between a holy God and a sinful people

• Protection from God’s overwhelming glory (Exodus 26:33)

• A continual reminder that access to the Most Holy Place was limited to the high priest, once a year, and only with blood (Leviticus 16:2, 34)

• A symbol of God’s willingness to dwell among His people, yet on His terms of holiness


How the Veil Points to Christ

Hebrews 10:19-20—“Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way opened for us through the curtain of His body.”

Matthew 27:51—“At that moment the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.”

• The torn veil declares Christ’s atoning sacrifice fully satisfied God’s justice, opening direct access to the Father.

• Jesus Himself is both High Priest and Veil; through Him alone we draw near (John 14:6).


What the Veil Teaches Our Spiritual Lives Today

• God’s holiness has never changed; sin still separates.

• Christ’s cross removed the barrier permanently—no more yearly sacrifices or human intermediaries.

• We now approach confidently, yet reverently, in prayer and worship (Hebrews 4:16).

• Any attempt to reach God apart from Christ tries to re-hang the veil that God has already torn.

• The veil imagery warns against a casual view of sin while assuring us of complete forgiveness in Jesus.


Living on the Right Side of the Veil

• Cultivate a heart of thanksgiving for unrestricted access.

• Keep short accounts with God—confession keeps fellowship clear (1 John 1:9).

• Walk in the Spirit rather than under old covenant shadows (Galatians 5:1).

• Reflect unveiled glory by beholding Christ daily in the Word (2 Corinthians 3:18).

• Invite others to step through the torn veil by proclaiming the gospel.


Key Takeaways

• The veil originally proclaimed separation; in Christ it now proclaims access.

• God’s holiness and mercy meet perfectly at the torn curtain.

• Spiritual vitality flows from living consciously “inside” the Most Holy Place, enjoying unbroken fellowship with the Father through the Son.

How does Exodus 40:28 emphasize the importance of following God's specific instructions?
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