Exodus 26:2

Each curtain shall be twenty-eight cubits long and four cubits wide--all curtains the same size.

Study Bible

Each curtain shall be twenty-eight cubits long
The measurement of twenty-eight cubits, approximately 42 feet, indicates the grandeur and scale of the Tabernacle, reflecting God's majesty. The number 28, being a multiple of 7, a number often associated with completeness and perfection in the Bible, may symbolize the divine perfection of God's dwelling place. The length of the curtains ensured that the Tabernacle was covered completely, signifying God's complete protection and presence with His people.

and four cubits wide
The width of four cubits, about 6 feet, suggests a manageable size for transport and assembly, reflecting the practical needs of a nomadic people. The number four often represents universality or completeness in the Bible, possibly indicating that God's presence was meant for all of Israel. The dimensions also ensured that the curtains could be joined together seamlessly, symbolizing unity and harmony among the tribes of Israel.

all curtains the same size
Uniformity in the size of the curtains emphasizes order and precision in God's instructions, reflecting His nature as a God of order. This uniformity can also symbolize equality among the tribes of Israel, as each curtain was identical, suggesting that all were equally important in the eyes of God. The consistency in size ensured that the Tabernacle was a cohesive and unified structure, pointing to the unity and oneness of God's people.

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 for God among the Israelites, designed according to divine specifications.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were to construct the Tabernacle as a place of worship and meeting with God.

4. Mount Sinai
The mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments and the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle.

5. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites journeyed and where the Tabernacle was constructed and used.

Teaching Points

Divine Precision
The specific measurements of the curtains underscore the importance of following God's instructions precisely. This teaches us the value of obedience and attention to detail in our spiritual lives.

Unity and Uniformity
The fact that all curtains were to have the same measurements symbolizes unity and uniformity in the body of Christ. We are called to be united in purpose and mission.

God's Dwelling Among Us
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Today, we are reminded that God desires to dwell within us, making our lives a living sanctuary.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The Tabernacle's design points to deeper spiritual truths, such as the holiness of God and the need for a mediator, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Faithfulness in Small Things
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle remind us that faithfulness in small things is crucial. God cares about the details of our lives and our faithfulness in them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the precision of the Tabernacle's construction reflect God's character, and how can this understanding impact our daily walk with Him?

2. In what ways can the unity and uniformity of the Tabernacle's curtains inspire us to seek unity within our church community?

3. How does the concept of the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place relate to the New Testament teaching that believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our lives are a suitable dwelling place for God's presence today?

5. How can we apply the principle of faithfulness in small things, as seen in the construction of the Tabernacle, to our personal and spiritual lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:9
This verse emphasizes the importance of following the exact pattern shown to Moses on the mountain, highlighting the divine origin of the Tabernacle's design.

Hebrews 8:5
This New Testament verse refers to the Tabernacle as a copy and shadow of what is in heaven, indicating the spiritual significance of its precise construction.

1 Corinthians 3:16
This verse connects the concept of the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place to believers being the temple of the Holy Spirit today.