Exodus 36:35

Next, he made the veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, with cherubim skillfully worked into it.

Study Bible

Next, he made a veil
The word "veil" in Hebrew is "פָּרֹכֶת" (paroket), which signifies a curtain or a screen. In the context of the Tabernacle, the veil served as a physical and symbolic barrier between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. This separation underscores the holiness of God and the need for reverence and purity when approaching Him. The veil represents the separation between God and humanity due to sin, a theme that is echoed throughout Scripture until the veil is torn at Christ's crucifixion, symbolizing the new access to God through Jesus.

of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn
The colors blue, purple, and scarlet are significant in biblical symbolism. Blue often represents the heavens and divine revelation, purple is a color of royalty and wealth, and scarlet signifies sacrifice and atonement. The use of these colors in the veil highlights the divine nature of the Tabernacle and the kingly and sacrificial aspects of God's covenant with Israel. Historically, these dyes were costly and labor-intensive to produce, indicating the value and sacredness of the materials used in worship.

and finely spun linen
Linen, derived from the flax plant, was a fabric of high quality and purity, often associated with righteousness and holiness in Scripture. The "finely spun" aspect suggests meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, reflecting the care and reverence required in the service of God. Linen's natural properties, such as its breathability and durability, made it suitable for the sacred environment of the Tabernacle.

with cherubim skillfully worked into it
Cherubim are angelic beings often associated with the presence and glory of God. In the Hebrew, "cherubim" (כְּרוּבִים, keruvim) are depicted as guardians of sacred spaces, as seen in Genesis 3:24, where they guard the way to the Tree of Life. The skillful embroidery of cherubim into the veil signifies the divine protection and the holiness of the space beyond the veil. This artistry required exceptional skill, symbolizing the beauty and majesty of God's dwelling place. The presence of cherubim on the veil serves as a reminder of the heavenly realities and the spiritual truths that the Tabernacle represents.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle from God.

2. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God dwelled among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

4. Cherubim
Angelic beings depicted in the veil, symbolizing the presence and holiness of God.

5. The Veil
A curtain separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place in the Tabernacle, representing the barrier between God and humanity due to sin.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Veil
The veil represents the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. It reminds us of the need for atonement and reconciliation with God.

Colors and Materials
The use of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, along with finely spun linen, signifies royalty, divinity, and sacrifice. These elements point to the majesty and holiness of God.

Role of the Cherubim
The cherubim woven into the veil symbolize God's presence and serve as a reminder of the cherubim guarding the way to the Tree of Life in Genesis, highlighting the theme of access to God.

Fulfillment in Christ
The tearing of the veil at Christ's death signifies the new access to God through Jesus, our High Priest, who has made a way for us to enter the Most Holy Place.

Craftsmanship and Worship
The skillful work of the craftsmen reflects the importance of using our God-given talents in service and worship, encouraging us to offer our best to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the veil in the Tabernacle reflect the holiness of God, and what does this teach us about approaching Him in worship today?

2. In what ways do the colors and materials used in the veil's construction point to the character and work of Christ?

3. How does the presence of cherubim in the veil connect to other biblical instances of cherubim, and what does this reveal about God's nature?

4. What is the significance of the veil being torn at the crucifixion of Jesus, and how does this event impact our relationship with God?

5. How can we apply the example of Bezalel and Oholiab's craftsmanship in our own lives, particularly in the context of serving God and the church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 26:31-33
Provides the original instructions for making the veil, emphasizing its role in separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place.

Hebrews 9:3-8
Discusses the significance of the veil in the context of the Old Covenant and its fulfillment in Christ.

Matthew 27:51
Describes the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity.

2 Chronicles 3:14
Describes the veil in Solomon's Temple, showing continuity in the design and purpose of the veil across different periods.