Exodus 38:14
The curtains on one side of the entrance were fifteen cubits long, with three posts and three bases.
The hangings
The term "hangings" refers to the curtains or fabric panels used in the construction of the Tabernacle's courtyard. In Hebrew, the word is "קְלָעִים" (qela'im), which denotes woven or embroidered fabric. These hangings were not merely functional but also symbolic, representing the separation between the sacred space of the Tabernacle and the outside world. The use of fine linen for these hangings signifies purity and holiness, reflecting God's call for His people to be set apart.

on one side of the entrance
This phrase indicates the specific location of the hangings, emphasizing the organized and intentional design of the Tabernacle. The entrance to the Tabernacle was a place of transition from the common to the holy. Historically, the entrance would have been a focal point for the Israelites, symbolizing access to God's presence. The careful description of the hangings on one side underscores the importance of order and precision in worship.

were fifteen cubits long
The measurement of "fifteen cubits" (approximately 22.5 feet or 6.8 meters) highlights the specific dimensions given by God for the construction of the Tabernacle. The use of cubits, an ancient unit of measure based on the length of the forearm, reflects the practical aspects of construction in the ancient Near East. The precision of these measurements demonstrates God's attention to detail and His desire for His dwelling place to be constructed according to His exact specifications.

with three posts and three bases
The "three posts and three bases" refer to the structural elements that supported the hangings. In Hebrew, "posts" is "עַמּוּדִים" (ammudim), meaning pillars or columns, and "bases" is "אֲדָנִים" (adanim), meaning sockets or foundations. These components provided stability and support, ensuring that the hangings were securely positioned. The number three often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection in Scripture, suggesting that even the smallest details of the Tabernacle's construction were infused with spiritual significance. The posts and bases remind us of the strength and stability found in God's presence, encouraging believers to build their lives on a firm foundation of faith.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle from God.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God during their journey in the wilderness.

3. The Entrance of the Tabernacle
The specific area being described in this verse, which was part of the outer court.

4. The Israelites
The people of God who were commanded to build the Tabernacle according to the divine specifications.

5. Bezalel and Oholiab
The craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings.
Teaching Points
Attention to Detail in Worship
The specific measurements and materials for the Tabernacle remind us of the importance of following God's instructions in our worship and daily lives.

God's Presence Among His People
The Tabernacle symbolizes God's desire to dwell among His people, pointing to the greater reality of Christ's incarnation and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Community Involvement in God's Work
The construction of the Tabernacle involved the entire community, highlighting the importance of each person's contribution to the work of God.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The physical structure of the Tabernacle serves as a symbol of spiritual truths, encouraging us to seek deeper understanding of God's plans and purposes.

Preparation for Worship
The detailed preparation for the Tabernacle's entrance teaches us the value of preparing our hearts and minds for worship.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the detailed construction of the Tabernacle reflect God's character and His expectations for worship?

2. In what ways does the Tabernacle serve as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ and His work of redemption?

3. How can we apply the principle of community involvement in the construction of the Tabernacle to our local church or ministry today?

4. What does the concept of God dwelling among His people mean for us as believers in the context of the New Testament?

5. How can we prepare our hearts and minds for worship in a way that honors God, similar to the preparation of the Tabernacle?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Exodus 26
Provides detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, including the dimensions and materials, which are being executed in Exodus 38.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of the Tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ's work and the heavenly sanctuary.

John 1:14
Relates to the concept of God dwelling among His people, as the Word became flesh and "tabernacled" among us.

1 Corinthians 3:16
Connects the idea of the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place to believers being the temple of the Holy Spirit.

Revelation 21:3
Looks forward to the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence dwelling with His people in the new heaven and new earth.
The Brazen Altar, the Laver, and the CourtJ. Orr Exodus 38:1-21
The Court and its LessonsJ. Urquhart Exodus 38:1-31
People
Aaron, Ahisamach, Aholiab, Bezaleel, Dan, Hur, Ithamar, Levites, Moses, Uri
Places
Sinai
Topics
Bases, Cubits, Doorway, Entrance, Fifteen, Gate, Hangings, Pillars, Posts, Sockets, Wing
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Exodus 38:9-15

     5618   measures, linear

Exodus 38:9-19

     7344   curtain

Exodus 38:9-20

     5271   courtyard

Library
The Unmerciful Servant.
"Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord

The Doctrine of the Scriptures.
I. NAMES AND TITLES. 1. THE BIBLE. 2. THE TESTAMENTS. 3. THE SCRIPTURES. 4. THE WORD OF GOD. II. INSPIRATION. 1. DEFINITION. 2. DISTINCTIONS. a) Revelation. b) Illumination. c) Reporting. 3. VIEWS: a) Natural Inspiration. b) Christian Illumination. c) Dynamic Theory. d) Concept Theory. e) Verbal Inspiration. f) Partial Inspiration. g) Plenary Inspiration. 4. THE CLAIMS OF THE SCRIPTURES THEMSELVES: a) The Old Testament. b) The New Testament. 5. THE CHARACTER (OR DEGREES) OF INSPIRATION. a) Actual
Rev. William Evans—The Great Doctrines of the Bible

Exodus
The book of Exodus--so named in the Greek version from the march of Israel out of Egypt--opens upon a scene of oppression very different from the prosperity and triumph in which Genesis had closed. Israel is being cruelly crushed by the new dynasty which has arisen in Egypt (i.) and the story of the book is the story of her redemption. Ultimately it is Israel's God that is her redeemer, but He operates largely by human means; and the first step is the preparation of a deliverer, Moses, whose parentage,
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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