Exodus 26:36 – “For the entrance to the tent, make a curtain of blue, purple and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen—the work of an embroiderer.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Exodus 26:36 provides instructions for making the curtain that would serve as the entrance to the tabernacle, often referred to as the tent of meeting. This curtain was to be crafted from blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, along with finely twisted linen. The detail about the curtain being the work of an embroiderer suggests that it was not merely functional but also ornamental, displaying intricate designs that would have been both beautiful and symbolic.
The colors used—blue, purple, and scarlet—carry significant meaning. Blue often symbolizes heaven or divinity, purple represents royalty, and scarlet is associated with sacrifice and atonement. The finely twisted linen symbolizes purity and righteousness. The entrance curtain, therefore, was not just a physical barrier but a representation of the holiness, majesty, and sacrificial system that defined the Israelites’ relationship with God.
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 curtain at the entrance was a critical part of the tabernacle’s structure, marking the boundary between the outside world and the holy space where God’s presence dwelled.
In ancient Near Eastern culture, the use of textiles like curtains to separate and designate sacred spaces was common. However, the tabernacle’s entrance curtain was unique in its symbolism and its role in Israel’s worship. The materials and colors specified for the curtain were chosen not only for their aesthetic value but also for their theological significance, pointing to the nature of the God who dwelled within.
Theological Implications
Exodus 26:36 emphasizes the concept of separation and holiness in the worship of God. The entrance curtain symbolized the barrier between the common and the sacred, reminding the Israelites that approaching God required reverence and purity. The specific materials and colors used for the curtain highlight key aspects of God’s character—His divinity, majesty, and the sacrificial system that was necessary for atonement.
The presence of the curtain also underscored the need for a mediator. In the Old Testament, only the priests could pass through the curtain to enter the Holy Place, symbolizing the necessity of mediation between a holy God and sinful humanity. This concept of separation and the need for a mediator would later find its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who became the ultimate mediator, granting believers direct access to God.
Literary Analysis
This verse is part of the detailed narrative in Exodus that outlines the construction of the tabernacle. The specific instructions regarding the creation and placement of the entrance curtain contribute to the overall theme of holiness and separation in the passage. The use of vivid colors and fine materials in the curtain’s design reflects the sacredness of the tabernacle and the importance of approaching God with the appropriate reverence.
The reference to the curtain as “the work of an embroiderer” suggests that it was not only functional but also a piece of art, meant to evoke awe and respect from those who approached the tabernacle. This literary detail highlights the care and intentionality behind every aspect of the tabernacle’s construction, emphasizing the sacred nature of the space.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 26:31 – This verse describes the curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, similar in its craftsmanship and symbolism to the entrance curtain.
- John 10:9 – Jesus says, “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.” This echoes the function of the entrance curtain as the only way to enter the sacred space, pointing to Jesus as the only way to access God’s presence.
- Hebrews 10:19-20 – This passage speaks of the confidence believers now have to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, through the new and living way opened for us through the curtain, symbolizing His body.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christians, Exodus 26:36 serves as a reminder of the importance of approaching God with reverence and purity. The entrance curtain to the tabernacle was a physical representation of the holiness of God and the need for preparation and reverence when entering His presence. This verse challenges us to consider how we approach God in our own lives—whether we come before Him with the respect, humility, and purity that He deserves.
This verse also points us to the ultimate fulfillment of the tabernacle’s symbolism in Jesus Christ. Just as the entrance curtain was the way into the tabernacle, Jesus is the way to enter into a relationship with God. He is the mediator who has made it possible for us to approach God directly, without the barriers that once existed.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in His provision of a way for His people to come into His presence. By instructing the Israelites to create an entrance curtain with such care and symbolism, God was providing a means for them to approach Him, while also protecting them from the consequences of His holiness. His love is evident in the care and detail He invested in making a way for His people to worship Him, even though they were separated from Him by sin.
God’s love is also seen in the way this verse points to the eventual removal of the barriers between Him and humanity through Jesus Christ. The entrance curtain was a temporary solution, but God’s ultimate plan was to make a way for all people to come directly into His presence through His Son.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The entrance curtain in the tabernacle ultimately points to Jesus Christ, who is the true way to God. Just as the curtain was the only way to enter the sacred space of the tabernacle, Jesus is the only way to enter into a relationship with God. In John 10:9, Jesus declares, “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved,” drawing a direct connection to the function of the entrance curtain.
Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus removed the barriers between God and humanity, making it possible for us to approach God with confidence. The symbolism of the entrance curtain, with its colors representing divinity, royalty, and sacrifice, is fulfilled in Jesus, who embodies all of these qualities and offers us direct access to God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the design and purpose of the entrance curtain to the tabernacle challenge you to approach God with reverence and purity in your own life?
- In what ways can you ensure that you are entering God’s presence through Jesus, the true mediator, rather than relying on your own efforts or merit?
- How does understanding the symbolism of the entrance curtain deepen your appreciation for the access we now have to God through Jesus Christ?
- What steps can you take to cultivate a deeper reverence for God in your daily walk with Him, reflecting the holiness symbolized by the tabernacle’s entrance curtain?
- How can you share the message of Jesus as the true way to God with others, helping them to understand the significance of His role as the mediator?