What is the meaning of Exodus 26:31? Make a veil “Make a veil…” (Exodus 26:31). The very first instruction centers on forming a physical barrier. • The veil marks the division between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place, as clarified two verses later: “Hang the veil…so the veil will separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place” (Exodus 26:33). • This separation speaks of the holiness of God that sinful humanity cannot approach without atonement (Leviticus 16:2; Hebrews 9:3). • The later tearing of the temple veil at Christ’s death (Matthew 27:51) shows how Jesus’ sacrifice opened direct access to God, fulfilling what this original veil only foreshadowed. of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn These three colors are repeatedly linked with worship furnishings (Exodus 25:4; 28:5–6). • Blue—often associated with the sky—reminds worshipers of God’s heavenly throne (Numbers 15:38–41). • Purple—an expensive royal dye—signals kingship, hinting at God’s sovereign rule (Judges 8:26). • Scarlet—a vivid red—recalls sacrifice and cleansing through blood (Hebrews 9:22). Together the colors weave a visual lesson: the King of heaven grants access only through blood. and finely spun linen Linen threads are strong, bright, and pure.Elsewhere, linen garments set priests apart for holy service (Exodus 39:27–29). • Linen’s whiteness pictures righteousness; Revelation 19:8 says, “Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints.” • The quality “finely spun” underscores excellence in everything offered to God (Malachi 1:14). In the tabernacle, even fabric demonstrates that approaching the Lord requires purity and care. with cherubim skillfully worked into it Cherubim are first seen guarding Eden after the fall (Genesis 3:24). Their woven images announce that entrance to God’s presence is watched and restricted. • Solomon later carved cherubim into temple walls (1 Kings 6:29), reinforcing the same truth. • Over the ark, real gold cherubim “overshadowed the mercy seat” (Hebrews 9:5), turning eyes to God’s throne of grace. The word “skillfully” shows that artistry itself is a God-given calling (Exodus 31:1–5). Beauty in worship points to the beauty of the One worshiped. summary Exodus 26:31 instructs Israel to craft a beautiful, color-rich, linen veil embroidered with guardian cherubim. Literally, it functioned as the sacred curtain shielding the Most Holy Place. Symbolically, it declared God’s untouchable holiness, the cost of access, and the promise that one day the barrier would be removed. In Christ the veil’s message is fulfilled: the heavenly King, pure and righteous, has opened the way for us to draw near with confidence (Hebrews 10:19–22). |
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