What is the meaning of Exodus 35:6? Blue, purple, and scarlet yarn Exodus 35:6 begins, “blue, purple, and scarlet yarn,” describing threads the people gladly brought for the tabernacle. God specified these exact colors earlier (Exodus 26:1; 28:5–6), so Moses repeats them here—showing faithful obedience. • Blue often draws the eye upward, reminding Israel of the heavens and God’s throne (Numbers 15:38–40; Ezekiel 1:26). • Purple, a royal dye, points to the Kingly authority of the LORD and foreshadows Christ’s kingship (Judges 8:26; John 19:2). • Scarlet echoes sacrifice and atonement, sounding the theme of blood that runs from the Passover lamb (Exodus 12:7) to Jesus’ redemptive work (Matthew 27:28; Hebrews 9:14). These threads were woven into curtains, veils, and priestly garments (Exodus 26:31; 28:33), filling the sanctuary with constant visual theology: heaven’s King provides blood-bought access to His presence. Fine linen and goat hair The verse continues, “fine linen and goat hair,” two more gifts with practical and spiritual weight. Fine linen • Used for the inner curtains (Exodus 26:1) and priestly garments (Exodus 28:39–42), its bright whiteness speaks of purity and righteousness (Revelation 19:8). • Worn next to the priest’s skin, it reminded him—and Israel—that holy service requires clean living (Leviticus 6:10; Ezekiel 44:17). Goat hair • Spun into coarse fabric for the tabernacle’s weather-proof tent (Exodus 26:7–13). While the inner layers dazzled, this outer covering protected God’s dwelling through wilderness storms. • Goats were central to sin offerings (Leviticus 16:5–22; 2 Chronicles 29:21). Using their hair to shield the sanctuary pictured atonement covering God’s people, anticipating Christ who “became sin for us” (2 Corinthians 5:21). Both materials were tangible, everyday reminders: purity within, protection without—gifts God Himself supplied through His people’s willing hearts (Exodus 35:21). summary Exodus 35:6 highlights specific, literal materials the Israelites freely offered. Each element—vivid yarns, spotless linen, rugged goat hair—carried meaning rooted in earlier commands and pointing ahead to Christ. Together they declare that worship must be exactly as God directs, beautifully displaying His royalty, sacrifice, purity, and protective grace. |
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