Exodus 26:31 – “Make a curtain of blue, purple and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen, with cherubim woven into it by a skilled worker.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Exodus 26:31 describes the creation of a significant element within the tabernacle—the curtain, or veil, that was to be made of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, along with finely twisted linen. This curtain was not just any ordinary fabric; it was to be crafted with great skill, with cherubim (angelic beings) woven into it. The curtain played a crucial role in the tabernacle as it separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept, symbolizing the separation between God and man.
The choice of materials and colors in the curtain was deeply symbolic. Blue, purple, and scarlet were colors associated with royalty, divinity, and sacrifice. The finely twisted linen represented purity and holiness. The cherubim woven into the fabric were a reminder of the presence of God’s heavenly hosts and His holiness. This curtain was not just a physical barrier but a representation of the spiritual separation between a holy God and sinful humanity.
Historical Context
The tabernacle was the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. It served as the central place of worship and the dwelling place of God’s presence among His people. The construction of the tabernacle followed detailed instructions given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. Every element, including the curtain, was designed to reflect the holiness of God and the sacredness of the space.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, curtains or veils were often used to separate sacred spaces from common areas. The veil in the tabernacle was particularly significant because it marked the boundary between the Holy Place, where the priests ministered, and the Most Holy Place, where only the high priest could enter once a year on the Day of Atonement. This separation underscored the holiness of God and the seriousness of approaching Him.
Theological Implications
Exodus 26:31 carries deep theological significance as it highlights the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. The curtain served as a barrier that reminded the Israelites of the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. The cherubim woven into the curtain also recalled the cherubim placed at the entrance of the Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve’s fall, symbolizing the loss of access to God’s presence due to sin.
However, the curtain also pointed to the hope of reconciliation. The detailed and beautiful design of the curtain signified that, although there was a barrier, God had provided a way for His people to approach Him through the sacrificial system. This curtain ultimately foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, who would tear down the barrier between God and humanity through His sacrifice on the cross.
Literary Analysis
This verse is part of the detailed instructions in Exodus for constructing the tabernacle. The mention of the curtain, with its specific colors and intricate design, contributes to the overall theme of holiness and separation in the tabernacle’s layout. The vivid imagery of the curtain, with its bright colors and woven cherubim, reflects the sacredness of the space it guarded.
The use of specific colors—blue, purple, and scarlet—along with finely twisted linen, adds depth to the narrative, emphasizing the importance of every element in the tabernacle’s design. The curtain’s role as a divider between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place underscores the theme of separation and the need for a mediator between God and humanity.
Biblical Cross-References
- Hebrews 9:2-3 – This passage describes the layout of the tabernacle and the significance of the curtain, highlighting its role in separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place.
- Matthew 27:51 – At the moment of Jesus’ death, the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity through Christ’s sacrifice.
- Hebrews 10:19-20 – This passage speaks of believers having confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, through the new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, His body.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christians, Exodus 26:31 serves as a reminder of the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin. The curtain in the tabernacle was a constant reminder to the Israelites that they could not approach God on their own terms; they needed a mediator. This verse challenges us to reflect on the barriers in our own lives that separate us from God and to recognize the importance of holiness in our relationship with Him.
This verse also encourages us to rejoice in the access we now have to God through Jesus Christ. The tearing of the temple curtain at the moment of Jesus’ death symbolizes the removal of the barrier between us and God. Through Christ, we are invited to draw near to God with confidence, knowing that He has made a way for us to enter His presence.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in His desire to dwell among His people while also protecting them from His holiness, which could not tolerate sin. The curtain was a provision of God’s love, allowing the Israelites to worship Him while acknowledging the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. It also pointed to God’s ultimate plan of redemption through Jesus Christ, who would remove the barrier of sin once and for all.
God’s love is evident in the way He provided a means for His people to approach Him, even though they were separated by sin. The intricate design of the curtain, with its beautiful colors and cherubim, showed that God’s holiness was not to be taken lightly, but it also pointed to His desire for a relationship with His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The curtain in the tabernacle ultimately points to Jesus Christ, who is the true mediator between God and humanity. The barrier that the curtain represented was torn down through Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross. As Matthew 27:51 describes, the curtain of the temple was torn in two at the moment of Jesus’ death, symbolizing that through Christ, we now have direct access to God.
Jesus is the fulfillment of what the curtain symbolized. He is the way through which we can enter into the presence of God without fear of judgment because He has paid the price for our sins. As Hebrews 10:19-20 reminds us, we can now approach God with confidence, knowing that Jesus has opened the way for us through His body, which was broken for our sake.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the instruction to make a curtain in the tabernacle remind you of the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin?
- In what ways can you ensure that your approach to God is marked by reverence and a recognition of His holiness?
- How does understanding the significance of the curtain in the tabernacle deepen your appreciation for the access we have to God through Jesus Christ?
- What barriers in your own life might be separating you from a deeper relationship with God, and how can you address them?
- How can you apply the principles of holiness and reverence in your daily walk with Christ, ensuring that your life reflects the access and relationship you now have with God through Jesus?