Exodus 27:16 – “For the entrance to the courtyard, provide a curtain twenty cubits long, of blue, purple and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen—the work of an embroiderer—with four posts and four bases.”
Extended Explanation
In Exodus 27:16, God gives Moses specific instructions for the entrance to the Tabernacle’s courtyard. The entrance was to be covered by a curtain that was twenty cubits long (about 30 feet) and made from finely twisted linen, decorated with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn. This curtain was to be crafted by an embroiderer, indicating that it was to be a work of art, not just a functional piece. The curtain was to be supported by four posts, each set in a base, ensuring that the entrance was both secure and beautiful.
The colors mentioned—blue, purple, and scarlet—were significant. Blue often symbolized heaven, purple was associated with royalty and majesty, and scarlet represented sacrifice and redemption. Together, these colors combined with the fine linen created a visual reminder of God’s holiness, majesty, and the sacrificial system that allowed the Israelites to approach Him. The entrance curtain was not merely a barrier; it was an invitation to enter a sacred space, prepared and adorned with reverence.
Historical Context
The Tabernacle was the portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped during their time in the wilderness. It was central to their religious life and was where God’s presence dwelled among His people. The courtyard was the outermost area of the Tabernacle, and the entrance was where people would first come when they approached the sanctuary to offer sacrifices or to seek God.
The use of specific colors and materials in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings was common in ancient Israelite worship. These elements were chosen not only for their aesthetic value but also for their symbolic meanings. The work of an embroiderer on the entrance curtain indicates that this was a place of great significance, where artistry and skill were employed to honor God.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 27:16 highlights the importance of beauty and reverence in worship. The entrance curtain, with its rich colors and fine craftsmanship, reflects the idea that approaching God is both a privilege and a serious matter. The beauty of the curtain signifies the glory and majesty of God, reminding worshipers that they are entering a holy space.
The detailed instructions for the entrance also emphasize the concept of access to God. The entrance was carefully designed to be both inviting and guarded, symbolizing the balance between God’s openness to His people and the holiness that requires reverence when approaching Him. The colors of the curtain point to various aspects of God’s nature—His heavenly authority, His royal majesty, and the sacrificial system that provided atonement for sin.
Literary Analysis
Exodus 27:16 is part of the broader narrative that details the construction of the Tabernacle. The verse is rich in descriptive language, focusing on the materials, colors, and craftsmanship involved in creating the entrance curtain. The repetition of specific instructions for the Tabernacle’s design throughout Exodus emphasizes the importance of following God’s commands precisely.
The use of color and fabric in this verse adds a layer of symbolism to the text, inviting readers to reflect on the deeper meanings behind the materials chosen. The emphasis on the work of an embroiderer highlights the care and intentionality involved in creating the Tabernacle, showing that worship was meant to be a beautiful and reverent experience.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 26:31 – Describes the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, also made of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen, indicating the sacredness of these colors.
- 2 Chronicles 3:14 – Describes the curtain in Solomon’s Temple, also made with these same colors, showing continuity in the use of these symbols in Israelite worship.
- Hebrews 10:19-20 – Refers to Jesus as the new and living way into the Most Holy Place, connecting the concept of the Tabernacle’s entrance to Christ’s role in providing access to God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 27:16 serves as a reminder of the importance of approaching God with both reverence and joy. The curtain at the entrance to the Tabernacle’s courtyard was not just a functional item but a beautiful work of art that reflected the glory of God. This verse encourages us to bring our best to God in worship, whether through music, art, service, or prayer, recognizing that God is worthy of our highest efforts and greatest devotion.
The specific instructions for the entrance curtain also remind us that access to God is both a gift and a responsibility. While God invites us to draw near to Him, we must do so with a heart that is prepared and a spirit that is reverent. The beauty and craftsmanship of the entrance curtain reflect the value of the relationship we have with God and the care we should take in nurturing it.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Exodus 27:16 reflects God’s love in the way He provided a beautiful and intentional way for His people to enter into His presence. The entrance curtain, with its rich colors and fine craftsmanship, was a visual reminder of God’s glory and His desire to dwell among His people. By giving these detailed instructions, God was ensuring that the Israelites could approach Him in a way that honored His holiness and reflected His beauty.
God’s care in designing the entrance to the Tabernacle shows His desire for His people to experience His presence in a meaningful and reverent way. The invitation to enter through this beautiful curtain demonstrates God’s love and His desire for a relationship with His people, while also reminding them of the seriousness of coming into His presence.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The entrance to the Tabernacle’s courtyard, as described in Exodus 27:16, points to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate way into God’s presence. Just as the entrance curtain was beautifully crafted and symbolized the way into the sacred space of the Tabernacle, Jesus is the way through which we enter into a relationship with God. In John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
The colors of the curtain—blue, purple, and scarlet—can also be seen as foreshadowing Christ’s work on earth. Blue symbolizes His heavenly origin, purple His royal kingship, and scarlet His sacrificial death on the cross. Through Jesus, the barriers that once separated us from God are removed, and we are invited to enter into His presence with confidence and joy.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge you to approach God with both reverence and joy in your worship?
- In what ways can you bring your best to God, recognizing that He is worthy of your highest efforts and greatest devotion?
- How does understanding the significance of the Tabernacle’s entrance help you appreciate the access to God provided through Jesus?
- What steps can you take to ensure that your relationship with God is marked by both beauty and reverence, reflecting the care and craftsmanship seen in the design of the Tabernacle’s entrance?