Exodus 27:13

The east side of the courtyard, toward the sunrise, is to be fifty cubits wide.

Study Bible

The east side of the courtyard
The east side of the tabernacle courtyard holds significant symbolic meaning. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the east was often associated with new beginnings and life, as it is the direction from which the sun rises. Biblically, the east is also significant as the direction from which God's glory enters the temple (Ezekiel 43:1-4). The entrance to the Garden of Eden was on the east (Genesis 3:24), and the Israelites would have seen the east as a direction of hope and divine presence.

toward the sunrise
The mention of the sunrise emphasizes the importance of light and new beginnings. In Scripture, light often symbolizes God's presence and truth (John 8:12). The orientation of the tabernacle toward the sunrise could symbolize the Israelites' orientation toward God and His guidance. It also reflects the natural order and rhythm established by God, aligning worship with the daily cycle of creation.

is to be fifty cubits wide
A cubit is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to 18 inches or 45 centimeters. Thus, fifty cubits would be about 75 feet or 22.5 meters. The specific dimensions of the tabernacle and its courtyard were given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25:9), emphasizing the importance of divine order and precision in worship. The size of the courtyard allowed for the gathering of the Israelites for worship and sacrifice, symbolizing the community's collective approach to God. The number fifty can also be significant in biblical numerology, often associated with jubilee and freedom (Leviticus 25:10), hinting at the liberation and redemption found in God's presence.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where the courtyard was a significant part.

3. The Courtyard
The outer area surrounding the Tabernacle, where the altar of burnt offering and the bronze basin were located.

4. East Side
The direction specified for the entrance of the courtyard, symbolizing new beginnings and the presence of God.

5. The Israelites
The people of God who were to construct and worship at the Tabernacle according to God's instructions.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the East
The east side of the Tabernacle courtyard represents new beginnings and the hope of God's presence. As believers, we are called to seek God’s presence daily, starting each day with a renewed commitment to Him.

Order and Precision in Worship
God's specific instructions for the Tabernacle's construction highlight the importance of order and reverence in worship. Our worship should reflect a heart of obedience and respect for God's holiness.

Community and Access
The courtyard was accessible to all Israelites, symbolizing the communal aspect of worship. In the New Covenant, we are reminded of the importance of gathering together as a community of believers to worship and encourage one another.

Anticipation of Christ
The eastward orientation of the Tabernacle points to the coming of Christ, the true Tabernacle, who provides access to God. We are to live in anticipation of His return, aligning our lives with His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. What significance does the eastward orientation of the Tabernacle courtyard have in the context of biblical symbolism, and how can this understanding impact our daily walk with God?

2. How does the detailed construction of the Tabernacle reflect God's character, and what does this teach us about the nature of worship today?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship, both individually and corporately, reflects the order and reverence seen in the Tabernacle's design?

4. How does the communal aspect of the Tabernacle courtyard inform our understanding of the church as a community of believers?

5. Considering the anticipation of Christ's return, how can we live our lives in a way that reflects readiness and alignment with His purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:8
The Garden of Eden was planted in the east, symbolizing the beginning of God's relationship with humanity.

Numbers 2:3
The tribe of Judah was camped on the east side of the Tabernacle, indicating leadership and prominence.

Matthew 24:27
Jesus speaks of His return being like lightning from the east, symbolizing His coming in glory.

Revelation 7:2
An angel ascends from the east, having the seal of the living God, indicating divine authority and protection.