The joining and overlapping of goat hair curtains is a significant aspect of the construction of the Tabernacle, as described in the Book of Exodus. This process is detailed in Exodus 26, where God provides Moses with specific instructions for building the Tabernacle, the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

Biblical Description

In Exodus 26:7-13 , the instructions for the curtains made of goat hair are outlined:

“You are to make curtains of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle—eleven curtains in all. Each of the eleven curtains is to be the same size—thirty cubits long and four cubits wide. Join five of the curtains into one set and the other six into another set. Fold the sixth curtain double at the front of the tent. Make fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain in one set, and fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain in the other set. Make fifty bronze clasps and put them through the loops to join the tent together as a unit. As for the additional length of the tent curtains, the half curtain that is left over is to hang down at the rear of the tabernacle. The tent curtains will be a cubit longer on either side, and the excess will hang over the sides of the tabernacle to cover it.”

Construction and Symbolism

The goat hair curtains served as the second layer of covering for the Tabernacle, placed over the fine linen curtains. The use of goat hair, a durable and weather-resistant material, provided protection from the elements, symbolizing God's provision and care for His people. The specific instructions for joining and overlapping the curtains ensured that the Tabernacle was both functional and aesthetically pleasing, reflecting the order and precision of God's design.

The joining of the curtains into two sets, with one set having an additional curtain folded at the front, demonstrates the importance of unity and completeness in the construction of the Tabernacle. The use of loops and bronze clasps to join the curtains signifies the interconnectedness and strength of the community of believers, held together by divine purpose.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the goat hair curtains and their precise joining and overlapping can be seen as a foreshadowing of the unity and covering provided by Christ. Just as the curtains covered and protected the Tabernacle, Christ's sacrifice covers and protects believers, offering them a place of refuge and communion with God. The meticulous instructions for the curtains highlight the importance of obedience to God's commands and the beauty of His divine order.

The overlapping of the curtains, with the excess hanging over the sides of the Tabernacle, can also be interpreted as a symbol of God's abundant grace, which extends beyond the immediate needs of His people, providing them with more than enough for their journey.

Historical Context

In the historical context of the Israelites, the use of goat hair was practical and readily available, as goats were common in the region. The craftsmanship required to create these curtains would have been a communal effort, involving skilled artisans who were filled with the Spirit of God, as described in Exodus 31:1-6. This communal effort underscores the collective responsibility of the Israelites to maintain the sanctity and functionality of the Tabernacle, a central aspect of their worship and identity as God's chosen people.