Exodus 27:12

The curtains on the west side of the courtyard shall be fifty cubits wide, with ten posts and ten bases.

Study Bible

The curtains on the west side of the courtyard
The west side of the tabernacle courtyard was an essential part of the overall structure, which was a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The tabernacle itself was a central place of worship and symbolized God's presence among His people. The use of curtains for the courtyard provided a boundary that separated the sacred space from the common areas, emphasizing the holiness of the tabernacle. The west side, in particular, was significant as it was opposite the entrance, which faced east. This orientation is consistent with other biblical structures, such as Solomon's Temple, and reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of eastward-facing entrances.

shall be fifty cubits wide
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches or 45 centimeters. Therefore, fifty cubits would be approximately 75 feet or 22.5 meters. This specific measurement for the width of the west side of the courtyard indicates the precise and orderly nature of God's instructions for the tabernacle's construction. The dimensions of the tabernacle and its courtyard were divinely ordained, reflecting God's desire for order and symmetry in worship. The number fifty can also symbolize completeness or fullness in biblical numerology, which may suggest the completeness of God's provision and presence.

with ten posts and ten bases
The use of ten posts and ten bases for the west side of the courtyard highlights the structural integrity and stability required for the tabernacle's construction. Each post would have been set into a base, likely made of bronze, providing a firm foundation. The number ten often represents completeness or divine order in the Bible, as seen in the Ten Commandments. This could symbolize the completeness of God's law and His covenant with Israel. The posts and bases were part of the larger framework that supported the curtains, ensuring that the sacred space was both secure and distinct from the surrounding environment. This separation underscores the holiness of the tabernacle and the need for reverence in approaching God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions for the Tabernacle from God on Mount Sinai.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were to construct the Tabernacle as a place of worship during their journey through the wilderness.

3. The Tabernacle Courtyard
A sacred space surrounding the Tabernacle, where the Israelites would gather for worship and sacrifices.

4. The West Side of the Courtyard
Specifically mentioned in this verse, it was part of the larger structure that enclosed the Tabernacle.

5. The Curtains, Posts, and Bases
Elements of the Tabernacle's construction, symbolizing order, structure, and the separation between the sacred and the common.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle remind us of the importance of following God's commands precisely, as they are given for our benefit and His glory.

The Holiness of God
The structure and design of the Tabernacle, including the courtyard, reflect God's holiness and the need for His people to approach Him with reverence and respect.

Community Worship
The courtyard was a place for the community to gather, highlighting the importance of corporate worship and fellowship among believers.

Symbolism of Separation
The curtains and posts symbolize the separation between the holy and the common, reminding us of the need for purity and sanctification in our lives.

God's Presence Among His People
The Tabernacle was a tangible sign of God's presence with the Israelites, encouraging us to seek and recognize God's presence in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed construction of the Tabernacle, including the courtyard, reflect the character of God?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of obedience to God's instructions in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of the Tabernacle as a place of worship and community gathering relate to the modern church?

4. What does the separation of the sacred and the common in the Tabernacle teach us about holiness in our personal lives?

5. How can we cultivate an awareness of God's presence in our lives, similar to how the Israelites experienced His presence in the Tabernacle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of following God's precise directions.

Hebrews 9
This chapter in the New Testament reflects on the significance of the Tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice and the heavenly sanctuary.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Paul speaks of believers as the temple of God, drawing a parallel between the physical Tabernacle and the spiritual dwelling of God within His people.