Exodus 38:9 – “Next they made the courtyard. The south side was a hundred cubits long and had curtains of finely twisted linen.”

Extended Explanation

Exodus 38:9 begins the description of the construction of the courtyard surrounding the Tabernacle. The verse specifically mentions the south side of the courtyard, which was 100 cubits long (about 150 feet or 45 meters) and was enclosed by curtains made of finely twisted linen. These curtains served as a boundary, marking the space that was set apart for worship and sacrifice.

The courtyard was a significant part of the Tabernacle complex, acting as the outermost area where the people of Israel could bring their offerings and where the priests would conduct various rituals. The use of finely twisted linen for the curtains indicates the quality and care that went into every aspect of the Tabernacle’s construction. This material was not just functional; it was also symbolic of purity and holiness, setting the courtyard apart as a sacred space.

Historical Context

The construction of the Tabernacle took place while the Israelites were in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. The Tabernacle was designed as a portable sanctuary, where God’s presence would dwell among His people as they journeyed toward the Promised Land. The courtyard, described in this verse, was the area where the general population could come to offer sacrifices and seek atonement.

The curtains made of finely twisted linen were more than just physical barriers; they represented a separation between the sacred space of the Tabernacle and the common areas where the people lived. This separation emphasized the holiness of the Tabernacle and the need for the Israelites to approach God with reverence and respect.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the construction of the courtyard with its finely twisted linen curtains speaks to the concept of sacred space. The courtyard created a physical and symbolic boundary that set apart the area for worship and sacrifice. This separation highlights the holiness of God and the importance of approaching Him with the proper respect and preparation.

The use of finely twisted linen also has theological significance. Linen, often associated with purity and righteousness in the Bible, was used here to enclose the space where the Israelites would come to meet with God. This reflects the idea that entering into God’s presence requires a level of purity and preparation, symbolized by the linen curtains.

The dimensions of the courtyard also suggest order and structure in worship. The precise measurements indicate that God is a God of order, and that the worship of Him should be conducted in an orderly and respectful manner.

Literary Analysis

In the literary context of Exodus, this verse is part of a detailed description of the Tabernacle’s construction. The attention to detail, including the specific materials and measurements, reflects the importance of following God’s instructions precisely. The mention of the finely twisted linen highlights the quality and care involved in creating the Tabernacle, reinforcing the idea that nothing but the best was to be used in worship.

The courtyard, as described here, serves as a transition space between the ordinary world and the holy space of the Tabernacle. This reinforces the theme of separation between the sacred and the profane, a recurring motif in the Bible that underscores the holiness of God.

Biblical Cross-References

• Exodus 27:9-19 – These verses provide the original instructions for the construction of the courtyard, including the dimensions and materials used.
• Isaiah 61:10 – Describes being clothed in garments of salvation and a robe of righteousness, using the imagery of fine linen to represent purity and righteousness, which connects with the linen curtains of the courtyard.
• Revelation 19:8 – Refers to fine linen, bright and clean, being given to the saints to wear, symbolizing the righteous acts of God’s people, further reinforcing the symbolism of linen in biblical literature.

Application for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, Exodus 38:9 serves as a reminder of the importance of approaching God with reverence and respect. The construction of the courtyard with its finely twisted linen curtains symbolizes the need to create space in our lives that is set apart for God, where we can worship Him without distraction. This could mean dedicating time and effort to prayer, worship, and reading Scripture, ensuring that we approach God with the same care and intentionality that the Israelites showed in constructing the Tabernacle.

The use of high-quality materials in the Tabernacle’s construction also challenges us to give our best to God. Whether in our work, our relationships, or our worship, we are called to offer God the finest of what we have, reflecting His worthiness and our devotion.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love in His desire to dwell among His people and provide a way for them to approach Him. By giving detailed instructions for the construction of the courtyard and the Tabernacle as a whole, God was showing His desire for a relationship with His people, while also teaching them the importance of holiness and respect in that relationship. The courtyard was a place where the people could draw near to God, offering their sacrifices and seeking His presence, all within the boundaries He established.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

The courtyard of the Tabernacle, enclosed by linen curtains, foreshadows the way Jesus Christ has made for us to enter into God’s presence. Just as the courtyard created a space where the Israelites could come near to God, Jesus has opened the way for us to approach God through His sacrifice. Hebrews 10:19-22 speaks of having 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. The linen curtains that once separated the holy from the common are now fulfilled in Christ, who removes the barriers between us and God.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does the construction of the courtyard with finely twisted linen challenge us to think about the sacred spaces we create in our own lives for worship and devotion?
2. In what ways can we ensure that we are approaching God with the same reverence and respect that the Israelites showed in constructing the Tabernacle?
3. What does this passage teach us about the importance of giving our best to God in all areas of our lives?
4. How does the symbolism of the linen curtains enhance our understanding of the need for purity and preparation in worship?
5. How can we see the connection between the Tabernacle’s courtyard and the way Jesus has made for us to approach God through His sacrifice?

This verse encourages us to reflect on the importance of sacred space, reverence in worship, and the connection between the Tabernacle’s courtyard and the access to God that we now have through Jesus Christ.