Exodus 36:12
He made fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops on the end curtain of the second set, so that the loops lined up opposite one another.
He made fifty loops on one curtain
The making of fifty loops on the curtain is a detailed instruction given by God for the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing precision and order. 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, and scarlet yarn, materials that were significant in the Tabernacle's construction, symbolizing royalty and divinity.

and fifty loops on the end curtain of the second set
The repetition of fifty loops on the second set of curtains indicates the importance of symmetry and balance in the Tabernacle's design. This reflects God's nature as a God of order (1 Corinthians 14:33). The curtains were part of the Tabernacle's covering, which served as a dwelling place for God's presence among His people, foreshadowing the incarnation of Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14).

so that the loops lined up opposite one another
The alignment of the loops opposite one another ensured that the curtains could be joined together seamlessly, creating a unified structure. This unity is symbolic of the unity of the body of Christ, the Church, as described in Ephesians 4:16. The precise alignment also reflects the meticulous care and obedience required in following God's instructions, highlighting the importance of faithfulness in worship and service.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle from God.

2. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings.

3. The Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary that the Israelites used during their journey in the wilderness, representing God's presence among His people.

4. The Curtains
Part of the Tabernacle's structure, specifically the inner coverings, which were intricately designed and connected by loops and clasps.

5. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites constructed the Tabernacle as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land.
Teaching Points
Attention to Detail in Worship
The precise instructions for the Tabernacle's construction highlight the importance of approaching God with reverence and care in our worship practices.

Unity and Connection
The loops and clasps symbolize the unity and connection among God's people, reminding us of the importance of fellowship and community in the body of Christ.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle served as a tangible reminder of God's presence with His people, encouraging us to seek and acknowledge His presence in our daily lives.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The faithful execution of God's detailed plans for the Tabernacle serves as a model for our obedience to His Word and commands.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
Understanding the Tabernacle's symbolism helps us appreciate the fulfillment of God's plan through Jesus Christ, who is our ultimate High Priest and mediator.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the detailed construction of the Tabernacle reflect the nature of God and His expectations for worship?

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

3. How does the presence of God in the Tabernacle compare to His presence in our lives today through the Holy Spirit?

4. What lessons can we learn from the obedience of the Israelites in constructing the Tabernacle according to God's specifications?

5. How does the symbolism of the Tabernacle enhance our understanding of Jesus' role as our High Priest and mediator?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Exodus 26
Provides the initial instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, including the design of the curtains and loops.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of the Tabernacle and its elements as a foreshadowing of Christ's work and the heavenly sanctuary.

1 Corinthians 3
Relates to the concept of believers being the temple of God, drawing a parallel to the Tabernacle as a dwelling place for God's presence.
Consecrated ArtExodus 36:1-38
False Estimates of Church-WorkersJ. Halsey.Exodus 36:1-38
Indolence in the ChurchJ. Halsey.Exodus 36:1-38
The Work Fails not Either for Gifts or SkillJ. Urquhart Exodus 36:1-38
Jehovah's Dwelling-PlaceJ. Orr Exodus 36:8-38
People
Aholiab, Bezaleel, Israelites, Moses
Places
Sinai
Topics
Coupling, Curtain, Edge, Fifty, Group, Held, Hold, Joining, Loops, Opposite, Taking, Twists
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Exodus 36:8-18

     7344   curtain

Library
Appendix xvii. The Ordinances and Law of the Sabbath as Laid Down in the Mishnah and the Jerusalem Talmud.
The terribly exaggerated views of the Rabbis, and their endless, burdensome rules about the Sabbath may best be learned from a brief analysis of the Mishnah, as further explained and enlarged in the Jerusalem Talmud. [6476] For this purpose a brief analysis of what is, confessedly, one of the most difficult tractates may here be given. The Mishnic tractate Sabbath stands at the head of twelve tractates which together from the second of the six sections into which the Mishnah is divided, and which
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Of the Necessity of Divine Influences to Produce Regeneration in the Soul.
Titus iii. 5, 6. Titus iii. 5, 6. Not by works of righteousness, which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour. IF my business were to explain and illustrate this scripture at large, it would yield an ample field for accurate criticism and useful discourse, and more especially would lead us into a variety of practical remarks, on which it would be pleasant
Philip Doddridge—Practical Discourses on Regeneration

Exodus
The book of Exodus--so named in the Greek version from the march of Israel out of Egypt--opens upon a scene of oppression very different from the prosperity and triumph in which Genesis had closed. Israel is being cruelly crushed by the new dynasty which has arisen in Egypt (i.) and the story of the book is the story of her redemption. Ultimately it is Israel's God that is her redeemer, but He operates largely by human means; and the first step is the preparation of a deliverer, Moses, whose parentage,
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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