Topical Encyclopedia The curtains of the Tabernacle hold significant importance in the biblical narrative, serving both functional and symbolic roles in the construction of the Tabernacle, the portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The detailed instructions for the making of these curtains are found primarily in the Book of Exodus.Biblical Description and Construction The instructions for the Tabernacle's curtains are meticulously outlined in Exodus 26. The Tabernacle was to be constructed with ten curtains made of finely twisted linen and blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully woven into them. Each curtain was to be twenty-eight cubits long and four cubits wide, all of the same size (Exodus 26:1-2). These curtains were to be joined together in sets of five, with loops of blue material along the edge of the end curtain in each set, and fifty gold clasps to fasten the curtains together, making the Tabernacle a single unit (Exodus 26:3-6). In addition to these inner curtains, there were also curtains made of goat hair to serve as a tent over the Tabernacle. Eleven such curtains were to be made, each thirty cubits long and four cubits wide. These were to be joined into two sets, one of five curtains and the other of six, with fifty bronze clasps to connect them (Exodus 26:7-11). Furthermore, a covering for the tent was to be made of ram skins dyed red, and another covering of fine leather to go over that (Exodus 26:14). Symbolism and Significance The curtains of the Tabernacle were not merely functional; they were rich in symbolism. The use of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, along with the fine linen, signifies royalty, divinity, and sacrifice. The cherubim woven into the fabric symbolize the presence and protection of God, reminiscent of the cherubim guarding the way to the Tree of Life in Genesis 3:24. The structure of the curtains also reflects the holiness of God and the separation between the divine and the human. The inner curtains, with their intricate designs and precious materials, were part of the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. This separation was further emphasized by the veil, another curtain that divided the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, where only the high priest could enter once a year on the Day of Atonement (Exodus 26:31-33). Theological Implications The curtains of the Tabernacle underscore the concept of God's holiness and the need for a mediator between God and humanity. They illustrate the separation caused by sin and the necessity of atonement and purification to approach God. The detailed craftsmanship and the materials used reflect the glory and majesty of God, who dwelt among His people. In the New Testament, the tearing of the temple veil at the moment of Christ's death (Matthew 27:51) signifies the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, granting believers direct access to God through the atoning work of Jesus Christ. This event fulfills the symbolic role of the Tabernacle's curtains, pointing to the ultimate reconciliation between God and man through the new covenant. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 26:1Moreover you shall make the tabernacle with ten curtains of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet: with cherubim of cunning work shall you make them. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 27:9-18 Exodus 36:8-18 Library Every Inch a King. Concerning the Tabernacle which Moses Built in the Wilderness for ... Lamps and Bushels Concerning Peaceableness The Child Samuel. The True Tabernacle, and Its Glory of Grace and Peace 'Three Tabernacles' Whether Sufficient Reason Can be Assigned for the Ceremonies ... Of the Purifications. The Copies of Things in the Heavens Resources What is the significance of a scarlet thread? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the sons of Korah in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org Who was Shimei in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Curtains: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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