Numbers 3:26
New International Version
the curtains of the courtyard, the curtain at the entrance to the courtyard surrounding the tabernacle and altar, and the ropes—and everything related to their use.

New Living Translation
the curtains of the courtyard that surrounded the Tabernacle and altar, the curtain at the courtyard entrance, the ropes, and all the equipment related to their use.

English Standard Version
the hangings of the court, the screen for the door of the court that is around the tabernacle and the altar, and its cords—all the service connected with these.

Berean Standard Bible
the curtains of the courtyard, the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and altar, and the cords—all the service for these items.

King James Bible
And the hangings of the court, and the curtain for the door of the court, which is by the tabernacle, and by the altar round about, and the cords of it for all the service thereof.

New King James Version
the screen for the door of the court, the hangings of the court which are around the tabernacle and the altar, and their cords, according to all the work relating to them.

New American Standard Bible
and the curtains of the courtyard, the curtain for the entrance of the courtyard which is around the tabernacle and the altar, and its ropes, according to all the service concerning them.

NASB 1995
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the doorway of the court which is around the tabernacle and the altar, and its cords, according to all the service concerning them.

NASB 1977
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the doorway of the court, which is around the tabernacle and the altar, and its cords, according to all the service concerning them.

Legacy Standard Bible
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the doorway of the court which is around the tabernacle and the altar, and its cords, according to all the service concerning them.

Amplified Bible
and the hangings of the courtyard, the curtain for the doorway of the courtyard which is around the tabernacle and the altar, its tent ropes, and all the service concerning them.

Christian Standard Bible
the hangings of the courtyard, the screen for the entrance to the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and the altar, and the tent ropes—all the work relating to these.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
the hangings of the courtyard, the screen for the entrance to the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and the altar, and the tent ropes—all the work relating to these.

American Standard Version
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the door of the court, which is by the tabernacle, and by the altar round about, and the cords of it for all the service thereof.

Contemporary English Version
the curtains hanging inside the courtyard around the tent, as well as the curtain and ropes for the entrance to the courtyard and its altar. The Gershonites were responsible for setting these things up and taking them down.

English Revised Version
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the door of the court, which is by the tabernacle, and by the altar round about, and the cords of it for all the service thereof.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
the curtains for the courtyard, the screen for the entrance to the courtyard that surrounds the inner tent and the altar, and the ropes. They took care of all these things.

Good News Translation
the curtains for the court which is around the Tent and the altar, and the curtain for the entrance of the court. They were responsible for all the service connected with these items.

International Standard Version
the hangings at the courtyard, the curtain at the entrance of the courtyard that surrounded the tent, the altar, and all of the tent cords in use.

Majority Standard Bible
the curtains of the courtyard, the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and altar, and the cords?all the service for these items.

NET Bible
the hangings of the courtyard, the curtain at the entrance to the courtyard that surrounded the tabernacle and the altar, and their ropes, plus all the service connected with these things.

New Heart English Bible
and the curtaining of the court, and the screen for the door of the court, which is by the tabernacle, and around the altar, and its cords for all of its service.

Webster's Bible Translation
And the hangings of the court, and the curtain for the door of the court, which is by the tabernacle, and by the altar round about, and the cords of it, for all the service of it.

World English Bible
the hangings of the court, the screen for the door of the court which is by the tabernacle and around the altar, and its cords for all of its service.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and the hangings of the court, and the veil at the opening of the court, which [is] by the Dwelling Place and by the altar all around, and its cords, to all its service.

Young's Literal Translation
and the hangings of the court, and the vail at the opening of the court, which is by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and its cords, to all its service.

Smith's Literal Translation
And the curtains of the enclosure, and the covering of the door of the enclosure, which is by the dwelling, and upon the altar round about, and its cords, and all its works.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
The tabernacle itself and the cover thereof, the hanging that is drawn before the doors of the tabernacle of the covenant, and the curtains of the court: the hanging also that is hanged in the entry of the court of the tabernacle, and whatsoever belongeth to the rite of the altar, the cords of the tabernacle, and all the furniture thereof.

Catholic Public Domain Version
the tabernacle itself, and its covering; the tent that is drawn before the doors of the covering of the covenant; and the curtains of the atrium; likewise, the tent that is suspended at the entrance of the atrium of the tabernacle; and whatever pertains to the ritual of the altar; the cords of the tabernacle and all its implements.

New American Bible
the hangings of the court, the curtain at the entrance of the court enclosing both the tabernacle and the altar, and the ropes—whatever pertained to their maintenance.

New Revised Standard Version
the hangings of the court, the screen for the entrance of the court that is around the tabernacle and the altar, and its cords—all the service pertaining to these.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And the curtains of the court and the covering for the door of the court which is by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and the cords of it, and all the instruments thereof.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And the curtain rods of the courtyard and the veil of the door of the courtyard that is next to the Tabernacle and next to the altar as a circle, and its cords and all its works.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the door of the court--which is by the tabernacle, and by the altar, round about--and the cords of it, even whatsoever pertaineth to the service thereof.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
and the curtains of the court, and the veil of the door of the court, which is by the tabernacle, and the remainder of all its works.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Gershonites
25The duties of the Gershonites at the Tent of Meeting were the tabernacle and tent, its covering, the curtain for the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, 26the curtains of the courtyard, the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and altar, and the cords— all the service for these items.

Cross References
Exodus 26:7-14
You are to make curtains of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle—eleven curtains in all. / Each of the eleven curtains is to be the same size—thirty cubits long and four cubits wide. / Join five of the curtains into one set and the other six into another. Then fold the sixth curtain over double at the front of the tent. ...

Exodus 35:18
the tent pegs for the tabernacle and for the courtyard, along with their ropes;

Exodus 36:14-19
He then made curtains of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle—eleven curtains in all. / Each of the eleven curtains was the same size—thirty cubits long and four cubits wide. / He joined five of the curtains into one set and the other six into another. ...

Exodus 40:19
Then he spread the tent over the tabernacle and put the covering over the tent, just as the LORD had commanded him.

Numbers 4:25-26
They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting with the covering of fine leather over it, the curtains for the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, / the curtains of the courtyard, and the curtains for the entrance at the gate of the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and altar, along with their ropes and all the equipment for their service. The Gershonites will do all that needs to be done with these items.

Deuteronomy 31:9
So Moses wrote down this law and gave it to the priests, the sons of Levi, who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and to all the elders of Israel.

1 Chronicles 9:19
Shallum son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his relatives from the Korahites were assigned to guard the thresholds of the Tent, just as their fathers had been assigned to guard the entrance to the dwelling of the LORD.

1 Chronicles 23:32
So the Levites were to carry out the responsibilities for the Tent of Meeting and the Holy Place, and, under their brothers the descendants of Aaron, the service of the house of the LORD.

2 Chronicles 31:2
Hezekiah reestablished the divisions of the priests and Levites—each of them according to their duties as priests or Levites—for the burnt offerings and peace offerings, for ministry, for giving thanks, and for singing praises at the gates of the LORD’s dwelling.

Psalm 84:10
For better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.

Psalm 122:1
A song of ascents. Of David. I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the LORD.”

Isaiah 4:6
a shelter to give shade from the heat by day, and a refuge and hiding place from the storm and the rain.

Isaiah 33:20
Look upon Zion, the city of our appointed feasts. Your eyes will see Jerusalem, a peaceful pasture, a tent that does not wander; its tent pegs will not be pulled up, nor will any of its cords be broken.

Ezekiel 44:11
Yet they shall be ministers in My sanctuary, having charge of the gates of the temple and ministering there. They shall slaughter the burnt offerings and other sacrifices for the people and stand before them to minister to them.

Matthew 23:24
You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel.


Treasury of Scripture

And the hangings of the court, and the curtain for the door of the court, which is by the tabernacle, and by the altar round about, and the cords of it for all the service thereof.

the hangings

Exodus 27:9-16
And thou shalt make the court of the tabernacle: for the south side southward there shall be hangings for the court of fine twined linen of an hundred cubits long for one side: …

Exodus 38:9-16
And he made the court: on the south side southward the hangings of the court were of fine twined linen, an hundred cubits: …

the cords

Exodus 35:18
The pins of the tabernacle, and the pins of the court, and their cords,

Jump to Previous
Altar Cords Court Courtyard Curtain Curtains Door Doorway Entrance House Needed Open Opening Pertaineth Pertaining Related Ropes Round Screen Service Space Surrounding Surrounds Tabernacle Thereof Use Vail Whatsoever
Jump to Next
Altar Cords Court Courtyard Curtain Curtains Door Doorway Entrance House Needed Open Opening Pertaineth Pertaining Related Ropes Round Screen Service Space Surrounding Surrounds Tabernacle Thereof Use Vail Whatsoever
Numbers 3
1. The sons of Aaron
5. The Levites are given to the priests instead of the firstborn
14. Are numbered by their families
21. The families, number, and charge of the Gershonites
27. Of the Kohathites
33. Of the Merarites
38. The place and charge of Moses and Aaron
40. The firstborn are freed by the Levites
44. The balances are refunded














the curtains of the courtyard
The curtains of the courtyard were an essential part of the tabernacle's structure, serving as a boundary that separated the sacred space from the common areas. These curtains were made of fine linen, symbolizing purity and holiness. The courtyard itself was a place where the Israelites could come to offer sacrifices and worship God, emphasizing the importance of approaching God with reverence. The curtains also provided a visual reminder of the separation between God and humanity due to sin, a theme that is resolved in the New Testament through the tearing of the temple veil at Christ's crucifixion (Matthew 27:51).

the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard
This specific curtain served as the entrance to the courtyard, allowing access to the tabernacle and altar. It was distinct from the other curtains, often more elaborately designed, symbolizing the way to approach God. This entrance can be seen as a type of Christ, who declared Himself to be "the way" to the Father (John 14:6). The exclusivity of this entrance underscores the belief that there is only one way to God, a theme echoed throughout Scripture.

that surrounds the tabernacle and altar
The tabernacle and altar were central to Israelite worship, with the tabernacle representing God's dwelling among His people and the altar being the place of sacrifice. The surrounding courtyard provided a space for the community to gather and participate in worship. This arrangement highlights the communal aspect of worship and the centrality of God's presence in the life of the Israelites. The tabernacle itself is a precursor to the temple and ultimately points to Jesus Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14).

and the cords
The cords were used to secure the curtains and other elements of the tabernacle, ensuring stability and order. This detail, though seemingly minor, reflects the care and precision involved in worship and the construction of the tabernacle. It underscores the importance of order and structure in approaching God, as well as the need for everything to be done according to His instructions. The cords can also symbolize the strength and support found in God's commandments and promises.

all the service for these items
The service for these items involved the duties of the Levites, who were responsible for the care and transportation of the tabernacle and its furnishings. This service was a sacred duty, highlighting the role of the Levites as mediators between God and the people. It points to the broader theme of service in the Bible, where believers are called to serve God and others. The Levites' service foreshadows the priesthood of all believers, as described in 1 Peter 2:9, and ultimately points to Christ, our High Priest, who serves as the ultimate mediator.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. It was a portable sanctuary where God's presence dwelled among His people.

2. The Levites
Specifically, the Gershonites, who were responsible for the care of the tabernacle's curtains and coverings, as described in this verse.

3. The Courtyard
The outer area surrounding the tabernacle, enclosed by curtains, where the altar of burnt offering was located.

4. The Altar
A key element in the courtyard used for sacrifices, symbolizing atonement and worship.

5. The Ropes
Essential for securing the tabernacle and its courtyard, ensuring stability and order in the worship space.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Order in Worship
The detailed instructions for the tabernacle's construction and maintenance reflect God's desire for order and reverence in worship. This teaches us to approach worship with intentionality and respect.

Roles and Responsibilities in the Body of Christ
Just as the Gershonites had specific duties, every believer has a role in the church. Understanding and fulfilling our God-given responsibilities contributes to the health and function of the body of Christ.

The Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The tabernacle serves as a symbol of God's presence and holiness. It reminds us of the need for purity and dedication in our relationship with God.

The Transition from Old to New Covenant
The tabernacle's temporary nature points to the eternal and perfect work of Christ. We are called to live in the reality of the new covenant, embracing the freedom and access to God it provides.(26) And the hangings of the court . . . --See Exodus 27:9 and Note.

And the cords of it for all the service thereof.--The pronominal suffixes do not seem to refer to the court, the cords belonging to which appear to have been under the custody of the Merarites (Numbers 3:37), but to the mishkan or Tabernacle itself. Or, the latter suffix (its service, or the service thereof) may be designed to refer to each of the various things mentioned, as in Numbers 3:31, inasmuch as the words for all the service thereof may mean for everything which had to be done in connection with the things mentioned.



Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
the curtains
וְקַלְעֵ֣י (wə·qal·‘ê)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 7050: A sling, a, screen, the valve

of the courtyard,
הֶֽחָצֵ֗ר (he·ḥā·ṣêr)
Article | Noun - common singular
Strong's 2691: A yard, a hamlet

the curtain
מָסַךְ֙ (mā·saḵ)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4539: A covering, screen

for the entrance
פֶּ֣תַח (pe·ṯaḥ)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 6607: An opening, door, entrance way

to the courtyard
הֶֽחָצֵ֔ר (he·ḥā·ṣêr)
Article | Noun - common singular
Strong's 2691: A yard, a hamlet

that
אֲשֶׁ֧ר (’ă·šer)
Pronoun - relative
Strong's 834: Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that

surrounds
עַל־ (‘al-)
Preposition
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against

the tabernacle
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֛ן (ham·miš·kān)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4908: A residence, the Tabernacle

and altar,
הַמִּזְבֵּ֖חַ (ham·miz·bê·aḥ)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4196: An altar

and the cords—
מֵֽיתָרָ֔יו (mê·ṯā·rāw)
Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 4340: A cord, the string

all
לְכֹ֖ל (lə·ḵōl)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

the service [for these items].
עֲבֹדָתֽוֹ׃ (‘ă·ḇō·ḏā·ṯōw)
Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5656: Work of any kind


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OT Law: Numbers 3:26 And the hangings of the court (Nu Num.)
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