Exodus 26:12

As for the overlap that remains of the tent curtains, the half curtain that is left over shall hang down over the back of the tabernacle.

Study Bible

As for the overlap that remains of the tent curtains
The construction of the tabernacle involved precise instructions, reflecting God's attention to detail and order. The overlap of the tent curtains signifies the completeness and sufficiency of God's provision. The curtains were made of fine linen and blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, symbolizing purity, royalty, and sacrifice. This overlap ensured protection and coverage, emphasizing God's desire to dwell among His people securely. The tabernacle itself is a type of Christ, who provides complete covering and protection for believers.

the half curtain that is left over
The half curtain represents the meticulous planning in the tabernacle's design, ensuring that nothing was wasted. This leftover portion signifies God's abundance and the idea that His grace is more than sufficient. In a broader biblical context, it can be seen as a reminder of God's provision, as seen in the feeding of the 5,000, where leftovers were gathered, symbolizing the abundance of God's blessings.

shall hang down over the back of the tabernacle
The hanging of the curtain over the back of the tabernacle provided additional protection and insulation. This act of covering the back signifies God's encompassing presence, offering security and completeness. The tabernacle, as a whole, prefigures the incarnation of Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14). The back covering can also symbolize the hidden aspects of God's glory, which are not fully revealed to humanity, much like the Holy of Holies was hidden from view.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the tabernacle from God on Mount Sinai.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites, designed according to divine specifications.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were wandering in the desert after their exodus from Egypt.

4. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites were traveling and where the tabernacle was constructed.

5. The Tent Curtains
Part of the tabernacle's structure, made of fine linen and other materials, symbolizing God's covering and protection.

Teaching Points

God's Attention to Detail
The specific instructions for the tabernacle, including the overlapping curtain, show God's concern for detail and order. This teaches us to approach our tasks with diligence and care.

Symbolism of Covering
The overlapping curtain symbolizes God's protection and covering over His people. We can find comfort in knowing that God provides spiritual covering through Christ.

Obedience to Divine Instructions
Moses and the Israelites were called to follow God's instructions precisely. This reminds us of the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

Temporary Dwelling
The tabernacle was a temporary structure, pointing to the transient nature of our earthly life and the eternal dwelling we have with God through Christ.

Community and Worship
The construction of the tabernacle was a communal effort, emphasizing the importance of community in worship and service to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed construction of the tabernacle reflect God's character, and how can this understanding influence our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the concept of God's covering, as seen in the overlapping curtain, apply to our spiritual lives today?

3. How can we ensure that we are obedient to God's instructions in our personal and communal worship practices?

4. What lessons can we learn from the temporary nature of the tabernacle about our own lives and priorities?

5. How does the communal effort in building the tabernacle inspire us to engage in community and service within our church and local community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the broader context of the tabernacle's construction, detailing God's specific instructions to Moses.

Hebrews 9
This chapter in the New Testament discusses the significance of the tabernacle and its furnishings as a foreshadowing of Christ's work.

John 1:14
The concept of God dwelling among His people is fulfilled in Jesus, who "tabernacled" among us.

Revelation 21:3
The ultimate fulfillment of God's dwelling with humanity is seen in the new heaven and new earth.