Topical Bible: Tabernacle: Coverings of The Third of Rams' Skins Dyed Red

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Tabernacle, as described in the Old Testament, was a portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness. It served as the dwelling place of God among His people and was meticulously constructed according to divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai. One of the key components of the Tabernacle's construction was its coverings, which included a layer made from rams' skins dyed red.

Biblical Description and Significance

The coverings of the Tabernacle were designed to protect the sacred structure and its contents. The third covering, specifically made from rams' skins dyed red, is mentioned in Exodus 26:14: "Also make a covering for the tent out of rams’ skins dyed red, and over that a covering of fine leather." . This layer was placed over the curtains of goat hair and under the outermost covering of fine leather, providing both protection and symbolic meaning.

The use of rams' skins dyed red carries significant symbolism within the biblical narrative. The ram, as an animal, is often associated with sacrifice, as seen in the account of Abraham and Isaac, where a ram is provided as a substitute for Isaac (Genesis 22:13). The red dye applied to the skins further emphasizes themes of sacrifice and atonement, pointing to the shedding of blood necessary for the forgiveness of sins. This imagery prefigures the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood was shed for the atonement of humanity's sins.

Construction and Craftsmanship

The process of preparing the rams' skins for the Tabernacle involved skilled craftsmanship. The skins had to be carefully selected, treated, and dyed to achieve the desired red hue. The dyeing process itself was significant, as it required specific materials and techniques to ensure the color was vibrant and lasting. The attention to detail in the preparation of these coverings reflects the broader theme of excellence and devotion in the construction of the Tabernacle, as the Israelites sought to honor God with their best efforts and resources.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the covering of rams' skins dyed red serves as a reminder of God's provision and protection over His people. It symbolizes the covering of sin through sacrifice, a concept that is central to the Christian understanding of redemption. The red color, reminiscent of blood, underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of atonement, while also pointing forward to the New Covenant established through Christ's sacrificial death.

In the broader context of the Tabernacle, the coverings, including the rams' skins dyed red, illustrate the layers of separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. Yet, they also highlight God's desire to dwell among His people and provide a means for reconciliation and fellowship through prescribed sacrifices and rituals.

Conclusion

The covering of rams' skins dyed red in the Tabernacle is a rich symbol within the biblical narrative, encapsulating themes of sacrifice, atonement, and divine protection. It serves as a tangible reminder of God's covenantal relationship with Israel and foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, through whom believers find redemption and reconciliation with God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 26:14
And you shall make a covering for the tent of rams' skins dyed red, and a covering above of badgers' skins.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 36:19
And he made a covering for the tent of rams' skins dyed red, and a covering of badgers' skins above that.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Whether Sufficient Reason Can be Assigned for the Ceremonies ...
... red; and over this there was a third curtain made of ... and covered the boards of the
tabernacle on the ... The literal reason of these coverings taken altogether was ...
/.../aquinas/summa theologica/whether sufficient reason can be.htm

Book iv. --Of Marcion's Antitheses.
Fathers of the Third Century, Tertullian: Appendix. ... cross," represented by the "wood"
of which the tabernacle's boards, on which the coverings were stretched ...
/.../book iv of marcions antitheses.htm

Scriptural Types.
... goats' hair; and above two other coverings, the one ... In the court before the tabernacle
stood the brazen ... great sufferer foretold in the fifty-third chapter of ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxxvii scriptural types.htm