The term "curtain" in the Bible primarily refers to the veil or partition used in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple, which held significant religious and symbolic meaning in the worship practices of ancient Israel. The curtain served as a physical and spiritual barrier, separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, also known as the Holy of Holies, where the presence of God was believed to dwell.

The Tabernacle Curtain

In the construction of the Tabernacle, as described in the book of Exodus, the curtain was an essential element. Exodus 26:31-33 provides detailed instructions for its creation: "You are to make a veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, with cherubim skillfully worked into it. Hang it with gold hooks on four posts of acacia wood overlaid with gold, standing on four silver bases. Hang the veil from the clasps and place the ark of the Testimony behind the veil. The veil will separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place."

The curtain was made of fine materials and adorned with cherubim, symbolizing the heavenly realm and the holiness of God. It served as a constant reminder of the separation between God and humanity due to sin, as only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2).

The Temple Curtain

When Solomon built the Temple in Jerusalem, the curtain continued to serve its purpose, maintaining the separation between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place. 2 Chronicles 3:14 states, "He made the veil of blue, purple, and crimson yarn and fine linen, with cherubim worked into it."

The Temple curtain was a significant feature in the religious life of Israel, symbolizing the holiness of God and the need for atonement and mediation. It underscored the gravity of sin and the necessity of a mediator between God and His people.

The Curtain at the Crucifixion

The most profound moment involving the curtain occurred at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. According to the Gospels, at the moment of Jesus' death, the curtain of the Temple was torn in two from top to bottom. Matthew 27:51 records, "At that moment the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth quaked and the rocks were split."

This event holds deep theological significance, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus. The tearing of the curtain signifies that access to God is now open to all who believe in Christ, as He has become the ultimate High Priest and mediator (Hebrews 10:19-20).

Symbolism and Theological Implications

The curtain represents the separation caused by sin and the holiness of God, which cannot be approached without proper atonement. Its tearing at the crucifixion of Christ marks the fulfillment of the Old Covenant and the establishment of the New Covenant, where believers have direct access to God through faith in Jesus Christ.

The curtain's role in the Tabernacle and Temple, and its tearing at the crucifixion, underscores the central message of the Gospel: reconciliation with God through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This pivotal event invites believers to draw near to God with confidence, as stated in Hebrews 4:16 : "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."