Exodus 36:37

For the entrance to the tent, he made a curtain embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen,

Study Bible

For the entrance to the tent
The entrance to the tent refers to the entrance of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wilderness journey. This entrance was significant as it was the primary access point to the holy place, symbolizing the way to approach God. The Tabernacle itself was a precursor to the Temple in Jerusalem and represented God's dwelling among His people. The design and structure of the Tabernacle, including its entrance, were given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, emphasizing the importance of divine instruction in worship.

he made a curtain
The curtain served as a barrier between the outside world and the sacred space within the Tabernacle. It was a physical representation of the separation between God and humanity due to sin, yet it also provided a way for the Israelites to approach God through the prescribed means. This curtain can be seen as a type of Christ, who later becomes the ultimate mediator between God and man, as described in the New Testament (Hebrews 10:19-20).

embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn
The use of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn in the embroidery of the curtain is rich with symbolism. Blue often represents heaven or divinity, purple signifies royalty and kingship, and scarlet symbolizes sacrifice and atonement. These colors together point to the nature and work of Jesus Christ, who is divine, the King of Kings, and the ultimate sacrifice for sin. The use of these colors in the Tabernacle's design underscores the foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work.

and finely spun linen
Finely spun linen was a sign of purity and righteousness. Linen was a costly and high-quality material, indicating the value and holiness of the Tabernacle. In biblical symbolism, linen is often associated with the righteousness of the saints (Revelation 19:8). The use of such material for the curtain highlights the purity required to enter God's presence, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who clothes believers in His righteousness.

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
A portable sanctuary where God dwelled among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

4. The Curtain
A significant element of the Tabernacle, symbolizing separation and holiness, made with specific colors and materials.

5. The Israelites
The people of God, who contributed materials and labor for the construction of the Tabernacle.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Colors and Materials
The blue, purple, and scarlet yarns, along with the finely spun linen, symbolize royalty, divinity, and sacrifice. These colors remind us of the majesty and holiness of God and the sacrificial system pointing to Christ.

The Role of Skilled Artisans
God values and uses the skills and talents of individuals for His purposes. Like Bezalel and Oholiab, we are called to use our gifts for the glory of God and the edification of His people.

The Importance of Obedience
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle construction highlight the importance of obedience to God's commands. Our lives should reflect a commitment to following God's will as revealed in Scripture.

The Curtain as a Symbol of Separation
The curtain represented the separation between God and humanity due to sin. In Christ, this separation is removed, granting us direct access to God.

Generosity and Willingness to Serve
The Israelites' contributions to the Tabernacle construction demonstrate the importance of generosity and willingness to serve in the community of faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the colors and materials used in the Tabernacle curtain reflect the character and nature of God?

2. In what ways can we use our skills and talents to serve God and His church today, similar to Bezalel and Oholiab?

3. How does the tearing of the temple curtain at Jesus' death change our understanding of access to God?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' willingness to contribute to the Tabernacle construction about generosity and service?

5. How can we ensure that our obedience to God's commands is reflected in our daily lives, as seen in the meticulous construction of the Tabernacle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 26:31-33
Provides earlier instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, including the curtain, emphasizing its role in separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place.

Hebrews 9:1-10
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its regulations, highlighting the significance of the Tabernacle and its elements in foreshadowing Christ's work.

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