Exodus 36:35 – “They made the curtain of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen, with cherubim worked into it by a skilled craftsman.”
Extended Explanation
Exodus 36:35 describes the making of the curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place within the Tabernacle. This curtain was intricately crafted using blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, as well as finely twisted linen. The cherubim, angelic figures, were skillfully woven into the fabric by a craftsman. This curtain, also known as the veil, was not just a decorative piece but a significant element within the Tabernacle, symbolizing the separation between God’s holiness and the sinfulness of humanity. Only the high priest could pass through this curtain once a year on the Day of Atonement to offer sacrifices for the sins of the people, making it a profound symbol of the holiness and sacredness of God’s presence.
Historical Context
The Tabernacle was constructed by the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness after leaving Egypt. It was a portable sanctuary where God’s presence dwelled among His people. The construction of the Tabernacle, including the curtain, followed specific instructions given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. The colors used in the curtain—blue, purple, and scarlet—were expensive and symbolic, often associated with royalty, divinity, and sacrifice. The cherubim woven into the fabric were meant to represent the guardians of God’s holiness, much like the cherubim who guarded the Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve were expelled. The curtain’s purpose was to create a barrier that protected the people from the direct presence of God, which was too holy for sinful humanity to approach.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Exodus 36:35 speaks to the holiness of God and the separation that exists between God and humanity due to sin. The curtain served as a physical reminder that access to God was limited and required mediation by a priest. It highlighted the seriousness of sin and the need for atonement. However, this separation also pointed forward to the eventual tearing of the veil at the moment of Jesus’ death on the cross (Matthew 27:51), symbolizing that through Christ’s sacrifice, the barrier between God and humanity was removed, granting believers direct access to God. This verse, therefore, foreshadows the ultimate reconciliation between God and His people through Jesus Christ.
Literary Analysis
In literary terms, Exodus 36:35 is part of the detailed narrative that describes the construction of the Tabernacle. The verse is rich in symbolic language, with each element—the colors, the fabric, and the cherubim—carrying deep spiritual significance. The use of skilled craftsmanship in the creation of the curtain reflects the importance of beauty and excellence in worship and in the things dedicated to God. The imagery of the cherubim woven into the fabric adds a sense of awe and reverence, emphasizing the sacredness of the space the curtain was meant to protect. This verse contributes to the broader theme of holiness and the meticulous care taken in creating a place where God’s presence could dwell.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 26:31-33 – These verses give the original instructions for making the curtain, which are fulfilled in Exodus 36:35.
- Hebrews 9:3 – “Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy Place,” referring to the purpose of the curtain in separating the Most Holy Place within the Tabernacle.
- Matthew 27:51 – “At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom,” symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity through Jesus’ death.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Exodus 36:35 serves as a reminder of the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin. The curtain represents the separation that once existed between God and humanity, a separation that was bridged by Jesus Christ. This verse challenges us to consider the reverence with which we approach God, recognizing that, while we now have direct access to Him through Christ, God’s holiness remains unchanged. It also encourages us to reflect on the beauty and excellence we bring to our worship and service to God, striving to offer our best just as the craftsmen did in creating the Tabernacle.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in His desire to dwell among His people, even with the barrier of sin between them. The curtain was both a symbol of separation and a provision of God’s grace, protecting the Israelites from the full intensity of His holiness while still allowing for His presence to be near. God’s love is also evident in the eventual tearing of the curtain at Jesus’ death, signifying that the way to God was now open to all who believe. This act of love shows that God desires a close and intimate relationship with His people, a relationship made possible through the sacrifice of Jesus.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Exodus 36:35 directly connects to Jesus Christ through the symbolism of the curtain. The curtain in the Tabernacle separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, just as sin separates humanity from God. However, Jesus’ death tore this curtain, symbolically and literally, removing the barrier between God and humanity. In Hebrews 10:19-20, it says, “Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body.” Jesus, by His sacrifice, became the way for us to enter into the presence of God freely, without the need for a human mediator.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the holiness of God, as symbolized by the curtain, influence the way you approach Him in prayer and worship?
- In what ways can you strive to offer your best to God, reflecting the care and excellence shown in the construction of the Tabernacle?
- How does understanding the significance of the curtain being torn at Jesus’ death impact your view of your relationship with God?
- What does it mean to you that Jesus removed the barrier between God and humanity, granting us direct access to the Father?