The making of the veil and the curtain for the entrance of the Tabernacle is a significant event in the biblical narrative, reflecting the holiness and separateness of God, as well as His desire to dwell among His people. These elements are described in detail in the Book of Exodus, where God provides Moses with specific instructions for their construction.

The Veil

The veil, or "parochet" in Hebrew, served as a divider between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies) within the Tabernacle. It was a symbol of the separation between God and humanity due to sin, as only the High Priest could enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur).

In Exodus 26:31-33 , the instructions for the veil are as follows: "You are to make a veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, with cherubim skillfully worked into it. Hang it with gold hooks on four posts of acacia wood overlaid with gold, standing on four silver bases. Hang the veil from the clasps and place the ark of the Testimony behind the veil. The veil will separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place."

The materials and colors used in the veil are significant. Blue, purple, and scarlet were colors associated with royalty and divinity, while the finely spun linen represented purity. The cherubim woven into the fabric symbolized the presence of heavenly beings, guardians of the divine presence.

The Curtain for the Entrance

The curtain for the entrance of the Tabernacle, also known as the "screen" or "hanging," served as the doorway to the Holy Place. It was distinct from the veil but shared similar craftsmanship and symbolism.

Exodus 26:36-37 provides the instructions: "For the entrance to the tent, make a curtain of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, the work of an embroiderer. Make five posts of acacia wood for the curtain, overlay them with gold hooks, and cast five bronze bases for them."

The entrance curtain, like the veil, was made of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and finely spun linen, emphasizing the sacredness of the space it enclosed. The use of acacia wood and gold for the posts, along with bronze bases, highlighted the blend of earthly and divine elements, as bronze was often associated with judgment and strength.

Symbolism and Significance

The veil and the entrance curtain were not merely functional elements of the Tabernacle; they were rich in symbolism. The veil's role as a barrier underscored the holiness of God and the need for atonement and mediation. The entrance curtain, while allowing access to the Holy Place, reminded the Israelites of the sanctity required to approach God.

In the New Testament, the tearing of the veil at the moment of Jesus' death (Matthew 27:51) is a profound event, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity through the atoning sacrifice of Christ. This act fulfilled the purpose of the veil, granting believers direct access to the presence of God.

The making of the veil and the curtain for the entrance of the Tabernacle thus holds deep theological significance, pointing to the holiness of God, the separation caused by sin, and the ultimate reconciliation achieved through Jesus Christ.