The curtain, also referred to as the veil, holds profound symbolic significance within the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Tabernacle and the Temple. It serves as a powerful representation of the separation between God and humanity due to sin, as well as the eventual reconciliation made possible through Jesus Christ.

The Tabernacle and the Temple

In the Old Testament, the curtain was a central feature of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings, and later in the Temple built by Solomon in Jerusalem. The curtain separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, or the Holy of Holies, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. This inner sanctuary was considered the dwelling place of God's presence on earth.

Exodus 26:31-33 describes the construction of the curtain: "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 intricate design and the presence of cherubim on the curtain underscored the holiness and the inaccessibility of God's presence. Only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), to offer sacrifices for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16:2-34).

Symbol of Separation

The curtain symbolized the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. It was a constant reminder of the barrier that sin had erected between God and His creation. The holiness of God could not be approached casually or without the proper atonement, highlighting the gravity of sin and the need for a mediator.

Isaiah 59:2 states, "But your iniquities have built barriers between you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He does not hear." The curtain served as a physical manifestation of this spiritual truth, emphasizing the need for purification and atonement to approach God.

The Curtain Torn

The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of the symbolism of the curtain through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. At the moment of Christ's crucifixion, the curtain in the Temple was torn in two from top to bottom, signifying the removal of the barrier between God and humanity. Matthew 27:50-51 records, "When Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, He yielded up His spirit. At that moment the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth quaked and the rocks were split."

This miraculous event symbolized the new access to God made possible through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus. Hebrews 10:19-20 explains, "Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way opened for us through the veil of His flesh."

Access to God

The tearing of the curtain signifies that through Christ, believers now have direct access to God. The need for an earthly high priest and the annual sacrifices of the Day of Atonement were fulfilled in the once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus. This access is not limited to a select few but is available to all who come to God through faith in Christ.

Ephesians 2:13-14 states, "But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility."

Conclusion

The symbolism of the curtain in the Bible is a profound testament to the holiness of God, the seriousness of sin, and the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. It serves as a reminder of the separation that once existed and the reconciliation that is now available through faith in the Savior.