What is the meaning of Exodus 36:11? He made loops “Bezalel made fifty loops” (Exodus 36:11). • These loops acted like buttonholes, allowing clasps to join the large curtain panels. • The craftsman did exactly what God had outlined earlier in Exodus 26:4–5, showing the importance of detailed obedience (cf. Hebrews 3:2, where Jesus is praised for perfect faithfulness in all God’s house). • In practical terms, the loops kept the sanctuary from flapping or tearing—reminding us that God’s worship is marked by both beauty and order (1 Corinthians 14:33). of blue material • Blue thread stood out vividly against the woven cherub-patterned fabric (Exodus 26:1). • Throughout the tabernacle, blue points our eyes heavenward—echoing the sapphire-like pavement under God’s feet (Exodus 24:10) and the tassels commanded in Numbers 15:38 that helped Israel remember the Lord’s commands. • Whenever the priests saw the blue loops, they were reminded that earthly service was tied to a heavenly calling (Colossians 3:1). on the edge • Placing the loops “on the edge” (Exodus 36:11) guaranteed the panels could meet perfectly without gaps. • Edges, borders, boundaries—Scripture often notes God’s care for limits (Proverbs 8:29). The tabernacle’s edges underline that God sets safe borders for worship: close enough to draw near, never casual enough to drift into irreverence. of the end curtain • The “end curtain” was the outermost piece of the first group of five panels (Exodus 26:3). • Ending pieces matter; what seems peripheral still carries weight in God’s house (1 Corinthians 12:22). Even the last panel received precise detailing, affirming that nothing in our service is insignificant. in the first set • The tabernacle curtains were divided into two matching sets of five. This first set formed half the sanctuary roof (Exodus 26:1–6). • God’s pattern shows both distinction and unity: separate panels, one covering. That arrangement whispers the principle Paul later teaches—many members, one body (Romans 12:4–5). and also on the end curtain in the second set • “Likewise he made loops on the end curtain of the second set” (Exodus 36:11). • Mirrored loops ensured the two halves would align perfectly when linked by gold clasps (Exodus 36:12). • The symmetry stresses equality and harmony—no part superior, all joined by a common connector (Ephesians 4:16). God fashions His dwelling so that every piece, whether first or second, fits snugly into His unified design (1 Peter 2:5). summary Exodus 36:11 highlights meticulous craftsmanship that mirrors God’s meticulous heart. Blue loops placed precisely on the edges of both curtain sets provided the means to bind the sanctuary into one seamless whole. In those small details we glimpse big truths: obedience in the little things, heavenly identity stitched into earthly service, boundaries that foster closeness, and diverse parts drawn together in perfect unity. |
    |