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Journey Through the Bible

Exodus 26 The Covenant and the Tabernacle

1 The Tabernacle
“Make the tabernacle with ten curtains of finely twisted linen and blue, purple and scarlet yarn, with cherubim worked into them by a skilled craftsman.

2 All the curtains are to be the same size—twenty-eight cubits long and four cubits wide.

3 Join five of the curtains together, and do the same with the other five.

4 Make loops of blue material along the edge of the end curtain in one set, and do the same with the end curtain in the other set.

5 Make fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops on the end curtain of the other set, with the loops opposite each other.

6 Then make fifty gold clasps and use them to fasten the curtains together so that the tabernacle is a unit.

7 “Make curtains of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle—eleven altogether.

8 All eleven curtains are to be the same size—thirty cubits long and four cubits wide.

9 Join five of the curtains together into one set and the other six into another set. Fold the sixth curtain double at the front of the tent.

10 Make fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain in one set and also along the edge of the end curtain in the other set.

11 Then make fifty bronze clasps and put them in the loops to fasten the tent together as a unit.

12 As for the additional length of the tent curtains, the half curtain that is left over is to hang down at the rear of the tabernacle.

13 The tent curtains will be a cubit longer on both sides; what is left will hang over the sides of the tabernacle so as to cover it.

14 Make for the tent a covering of ram skins dyed red, and over that a covering of hides of sea cows.

15 “Make upright frames of acacia wood for the tabernacle.

16 Each frame is to be ten cubits long and a cubit and a half wide,

17 with two projections set parallel to each other. Make all the frames of the tabernacle in this way.

18 Make twenty frames for the south side of the tabernacle

19 and make forty silver bases to go under them—two bases for each frame, one under each projection.

20 For the other side, the north side of the tabernacle, make twenty frames

21 and forty silver bases—two under each frame.

22 Make six frames for the far end, that is, the west end of the tabernacle,

23 and make two frames for the corners at the far end.

24 At these two corners they must be double from the bottom all the way to the top, and fitted into a single ring; both shall be like that.

25 So there will be eight frames and sixteen silver bases—two under each frame.

26 “Also make crossbars of acacia wood: five for the frames on one side of the tabernacle,

27 five for those on the other side, and five for the frames on the west, at the far end of the tabernacle.

28 The center crossbar is to extend from end to end at the middle of the frames.

29 Overlay the frames with gold and make gold rings to hold the crossbars. Also overlay the crossbars with gold.

30 “Set up the tabernacle according to the plan shown you on the mountain.

31 “Make a curtain of blue, purple and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen, with cherubim worked into it by a skilled craftsman.

32 Hang it with gold hooks on four posts of acacia wood overlaid with gold and standing on four silver bases.

33 Hang the curtain from the clasps and place the ark of the Testimony behind the curtain. The curtain will separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place.

34 Put the atonement cover on the ark of the Testimony in the Most Holy Place.

35 Place the table outside the curtain on the north side of the tabernacle and put the lampstand opposite it on the south side.

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.

37 Make gold hooks for this curtain and five posts of acacia wood overlaid with gold. And cast five bronze bases for them.

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Analysis of Exodus Chapter 26

Introduction

Exodus Chapter 26 is a detailed account of God’s instructions to Moses regarding the construction of the Tabernacle. The Tabernacle, also referred to as the Tent of Meeting, was a portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites as they journeyed through the desert. This chapter highlights intricate details on how the Tabernacle was to be constructed, including the materials to be used and the dimensions for various components. By adhering to these divinely given instructions, the Israelites were to create a sacred space for worship and communication with God.

Verses 1-6: The Curtains of the Tabernacle

The chapter begins with instructions for the ten curtains, which serve as the Tabernacle’s initial covering:

  • “Make the tabernacle with ten curtains of finely twisted linen and blue, purple and scarlet yarn, with cherubim woven into them by a skilled worker.”

    • These curtains are to be made of finely twisted linen and yarn dyed in blue, purple, and scarlet. The colors signify royalty (purple) and sacrifice or atonement (scarlet), while the linen symbolizes purity and holiness. Cherubim, angelic beings representing God’s divine presence, are to be woven into the fabric, emphasizing the sanctity of the Tabernacle as a holy dwelling place.

    The curtains themselves are detailed, with precise measurements provided to Moses:

  • “All the curtains are to be the same size—twenty-eight cubits long and four cubits wide.”

    • These measurements ensure uniformity, reflecting God’s order and precision. The curtains are to be joined together, five on one end and five on the other, using loops and clasps made of gold:

  • “Make fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops on the end curtain of the other set, with the loops opposite each other.”

    • These loops and clasps facilitate the connection, ensuring that the curtain functions as a single, cohesive unit. Such specificity underscores the need for careful craftsmanship and unity within the community.

    Verses 7-14: Covering Layers

    Next, the additional coverings for the Tabernacle are introduced. These layers offer both beauty and protection:

    • “Make curtains of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle—eleven altogether.”
    • “Make for the tent a covering of ram skins dyed red, and over that a covering of the other durable leather.”

    The second layer, made of goat hair, is to have eleven curtains, each longer than those of fine linen, symbolizing additional coverage and protection. Having a secondary layer of ram skins dyed red alludes to the theme of sacrifice and redemption. Finally, the outermost covering of durable leather ensures resilience against the elements, signifying God’s enduring protection over His people.

    Verses 15-30: Frames and Crossbars

    These verses provide meticulous blueprints for the frames and crossbars that support the structure of the Tabernacle:

    • “Make upright frames of acacia wood for the tabernacle.”
    • “Also make crossbars of acacia wood: five for the frames on one side of the tabernacle, five for those on the other side, and five for the frames on the west, at the far end of the tabernacle.”

    Each frame is to be made from acacia wood— a durable, resistant wood, symbolizing moral integrity and strength. The frames are overlaid with gold, reflecting God’s divine glory and magnificence. The bases for these frames are to be crafted from silver, which symbolizes redemption and atonement.

    The symmetry and interlocking design of these frames and crossbars ensure a stable, cohesive structure, a metaphor for the unified and divinely orchestrated community of Israel.

    Verses 31-37: The Inner Divisions

    The Veil for the Holy of Holies

    A curtain, or veil, separates the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant is kept:

  • “Make a curtain of blue, purple and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen, with cherubim woven into it by a skilled worker.”

    • This veil once again incorporates cherubim, indicating the sanctity and holiness of this inner sanctum where God’s presence dwells most intensely. The veil functions as a barrier, protecting the holiness of the inner chamber and emphasizing the reverence required to approach God.

    The Entrance Curtain

    The chapter concludes with another curtain for the entrance to the Tabernacle:

  • “Make a curtain for the entrance to the tent of blue, purple and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen—the work of an embroiderer.”

    • This entrance curtain, beautifully embroidered, signifies that while the Tabernacle is closed off and protected, it is also accessible, inviting the faithful into God’s presence under the right conditions and preparations.

    Ultimate Significance and Theological Implications

    Exodus 26 is more than just a manual for construction; it is a rich tapestry of divine symbolism. The detailed instructions and the unique artistry called for highlight the sanctity and reverence that Israel must associate with their worship space. Each material, color, and measurement carries deeper theological significance, drawing the Israelites closer to understanding God’s holiness and the seriousness of maintaining a relationship with Him.

    The Communion of Interior and Exterior

    The construction of the Tabernacle, with its inner sanctum and outer courts, offers a metaphor for the spiritual journey of the believer. The progression from the outer court to the Holy of Holies symbolizes the spiritual progress from the general community worship to the intimate, personal communion with God. Each layer, frame, and curtain leads the faithful toward deeper spiritual awareness and a closer relationship with God.

    God’s Immanence and Transcendence

    Furthermore, the Tabernacle serves as a constant reminder of God’s immanence—His presence among them—and transcendence—His holiness that sets Him apart. The guided construction reflects God’s desire to dwell among His people while also underscoring the sanctity that they must maintain to host His divine presence. Through meticulous adherence to these instructions, the Israelites demonstrate their devotion and obedience to God.

    Foreshadowing of Christ

    The structure and function of the Tabernacle can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The veil that separates the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place is reminiscent of the veil in the temple torn at Christ’s crucifixion, symbolizing the new access believers have to God through Him. Each element of the Tabernacle— from the sacrificial symbolism of the altar to the mercy seat of the Ark—points forward to the ultimate sacrifice and atonement found in Christ.

    Conclusion

    In Exodus Chapter 26, we find an intricate blueprint for not just a physical structure, but a deeply symbolic, spiritual edifice that encapsulates God’s relationship with His people. From the richly adorned curtains to the solid frames and distinct sections of the Tabernacle, every element serves to underscore God’s holiness, His desire for a relationship with humanity, and the preparations required to maintain that divine connection. These verses invite readers to reflect on the meticulous nature of worship and the profound reverence due to a God who both dwells among His people and transcends their understanding. By faithfully constructing the Tabernacle according to God’s detailed instructions, the Israelites create a sacred space that echoes their covenant relationship with Yahweh, a relationship that reaches its fulfillment in the coming of Jesus Christ.

    Understanding the Key Messages in Exodus 26: Insights and Explanation

    Chapter 26 of Exodus describes the specifications for the tabernacle, including the curtains, boards, and coverings. It also explains how the tabernacle should be arranged and the significance of its various elements.

    Notes

    This chapter provides detailed instructions for the construction of the tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of creating a sacred space for worship and encountering God.