Exodus 26:31

Make a veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, with cherubim skillfully worked into it.

Study Bible

Make a veil
The Hebrew word for "veil" is "פָּרֹכֶת" (paroket), which signifies a curtain or a screen. In the context of the Tabernacle, the veil served as a physical and symbolic barrier between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place, where the presence of God dwelt. This separation underscores the holiness of God and the need for reverence and purity when approaching Him. The veil represents the boundary between the divine and the human, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture, emphasizing the need for mediation and atonement.

of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn
The colors mentioned here—blue, purple, and scarlet—are rich with symbolic meaning. Blue often represents the heavens and divinity, pointing to the heavenly origin of the commandments and the divine nature of God. Purple, a color associated with royalty and wealth, signifies the majesty and kingship of God. Scarlet, a vivid red, is frequently linked to sacrifice and atonement, foreshadowing the blood of Christ. The use of these colors in the veil highlights the multifaceted nature of God's character—His divinity, sovereignty, and redemptive plan.

and finely spun linen
The phrase "finely spun linen" indicates the quality and purity of the material used. Linen, derived from the flax plant, was a symbol of purity and righteousness in ancient Israel. The meticulous craftsmanship required to produce finely spun linen reflects the care and devotion expected in worship and service to God. This attention to detail in the construction of the Tabernacle serves as a reminder of the excellence and holiness that God desires from His people.

with cherubim skillfully worked into it
Cherubim are angelic beings often associated with the presence and glory of God. The Hebrew word "כְּרוּבִים" (keruvim) suggests beings of great power and majesty. Their depiction on the veil signifies the guarding of sacred spaces and the holiness of God's presence. The skillful work required to weave these figures into the fabric underscores the artistry and dedication involved in creating a dwelling place for God. This imagery of cherubim also connects to the Garden of Eden, where cherubim guarded the way to the Tree of Life, symbolizing the restoration of access to God through His divine plan.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God dwelled among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. Veil
A curtain separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place in the Tabernacle, symbolizing the separation between God and humanity.

4. Cherubim
Angelic beings depicted on the veil, representing the presence and holiness of God.

5. Israelites
The people of God who were commanded to construct the Tabernacle according to the divine pattern given to Moses.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of the Veil
The veil represents the holiness of God and the separation caused by sin. It reminds us of the need for a mediator between God and humanity.

Colors and Materials
The use of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, along with finely spun linen, signifies royalty, divinity, and sacrifice. These elements point to the majesty and purity of God.

Role of the Cherubim
The cherubim on the veil symbolize God's presence and protection. They remind us of the importance of reverence and worship in approaching God.

Christ as the Fulfillment
Jesus' sacrifice tore the veil, granting believers direct access to God. This encourages us to approach God with confidence and gratitude.

Holiness and Worship
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle emphasize the importance of worshiping God according to His standards, highlighting the need for holiness in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the design and purpose of the veil in the Tabernacle reflect the nature of God's holiness?

2. In what ways does the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion impact our understanding of access to God?

3. How do the colors and materials used in the veil's construction point to the character and work of Christ?

4. What can we learn from the presence of cherubim on the veil about the nature of worship and reverence?

5. How can the concept of the Tabernacle and its elements, including the veil, inform our approach to worship and relationship with God today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of the Tabernacle and its elements, including the veil, as a foreshadowing of Christ's work.

Matthew 27:51
Describes the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity.

2 Chronicles 3:14
Provides a description of the veil in Solomon's Temple, showing continuity in the design and symbolism from the Tabernacle to the Temple.

Leviticus 16
Details the Day of Atonement, when the high priest would enter the Most Holy Place, highlighting the veil's role in the sacrificial system.

John 1:14
Relates to the concept of God dwelling among His people, as the Word became flesh and "tabernacled" among us.