Exodus 26:5

Make fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops on the end curtain of the second set, so that the loops line up opposite one another.

Study Bible

Make fifty loops on one curtain
The number fifty in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or fullness, as seen in the Year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25:10). The loops were likely made of blue, purple, or scarlet yarn, colors associated with royalty and divinity, reflecting the sacred nature of the tabernacle. The use of loops suggests a method of joining, indicating unity and cohesion among the curtains, symbolizing the unity of God's people.

and fifty loops on the end curtain of the second set
The repetition of fifty loops on the second set of curtains emphasizes symmetry and order, reflecting God's nature as a God of order (1 Corinthians 14:33). The "end curtain" signifies the completion of a section, ensuring that the tabernacle's structure was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This meticulous design points to the importance of precision in worship and obedience to God's instructions.

so that the loops line up opposite one another
The alignment of the loops opposite each other ensured a perfect fit, symbolizing harmony and alignment with God's will. This precise arrangement can be seen as a type of Christ, who perfectly fulfills the law and the prophets (Matthew 5:17). The concept of things lining up opposite each other also reflects the idea of covenant, where two parties come together in agreement, much like the Old and New Covenants are fulfilled in Christ.

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 instructions for the Tabernacle.

5. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites wandered for 40 years and where the Tabernacle was constructed and used.

Teaching Points

Divine Order and Precision
God's instructions for the Tabernacle were precise, reflecting His nature of order and intentionality. This teaches us the importance of following God's guidance in our lives with attention to detail and obedience.

Unity and Connection
The loops and clasps symbolize unity and connection among the people of God. In the body of Christ, we are called to be united and work together harmoniously.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The Tabernacle serves as a symbol of God's presence among His people. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and we are called to live in a way that reflects His presence in us.

Preparation for Worship
The meticulous preparation of the Tabernacle reminds us of the importance of preparing our hearts and minds for worship, ensuring that we approach God with reverence and readiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the precision in God's instructions for the Tabernacle reflect His character, and how can we apply this understanding to our daily lives?

2. In what ways can the concept of unity, as seen in the loops and clasps of the Tabernacle curtains, be applied to relationships within the church today?

3. How does the Tabernacle foreshadow the coming of Christ, and what does this teach us about God's plan for redemption?

4. What are some practical ways we can prepare our hearts for worship, drawing inspiration from the preparation of the Tabernacle?

5. How does understanding that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit influence the way we live and interact with others?

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 New Testament passage discusses the significance of the Tabernacle and its furnishings as a foreshadowing of Christ's work.

1 Kings 6
Describes the construction of Solomon's Temple, which was a more permanent structure that followed the pattern of the Tabernacle.

John 1:14
The Word became flesh and "tabernacled" among us, drawing a parallel between the Tabernacle and Jesus dwelling among humanity.