Topical Encyclopedia The veil of the Tabernacle and Temple holds significant theological and symbolic importance within the biblical narrative, serving as a physical and spiritual barrier between the holy and the most holy. This entry explores its construction, purpose, and theological implications as presented in the Scriptures.Construction and Description The veil of the Tabernacle, as described in the Book of Exodus, was a curtain made of fine linen, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully woven into it. Exodus 26:31-33 states: "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." In Solomon's Temple, the veil was similarly ornate, as described in 2 Chronicles 3:14 : "He made the veil of blue, purple, and crimson yarn and fine linen, with cherubim woven into it." Purpose and Function The primary function of the veil was to separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, also known as the Holy of Holies, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. This separation underscored the holiness of God and the need for reverence and purity when approaching Him. Only the high priest could enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), as detailed in Leviticus 16:2-34. The veil served as a constant reminder of the separation between God and humanity due to sin. It emphasized the need for mediation and atonement, pointing to the sacrificial system as a means of reconciliation with God. Theological Implications The tearing of the veil at the moment of Christ's death is a pivotal event recorded in the New Testament. Matthew 27:50-51 states: "When Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, He yielded up His spirit. 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 profound theological significance, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The tearing of the veil signifies that access to God is now open to all who come through faith in Christ, as emphasized in Hebrews 10:19-20 : "Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way opened for us through the veil of His body." Symbolism and Typology The veil is rich in symbolism and typology, representing the flesh of Christ, as suggested in Hebrews 10:20. It also serves as a type of the separation caused by sin and the ultimate reconciliation achieved through Christ's sacrifice. The cherubim woven into the veil recall the cherubim guarding the way to the Tree of Life in Genesis 3:24, further emphasizing the theme of separation and the hope of restored fellowship with God. In summary, the veil of the Tabernacle and Temple is a profound symbol of both separation and reconciliation, pointing to the holiness of God, the sinfulness of humanity, and the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Smith's Bible Dictionary Veil of the Tabernacle and Temple[TABERNACLE; TEMPLE] Library Concerning the Tabernacle which Moses Built in the Wilderness for ... Whether Sufficient Reason Can be Assigned for the Ceremonies ... The Mystic Meaning of the Tabernacle and Its Furniture. The Ark of his Covenant The Angels with the Seven vials. What is the Sanctuary? What is the Sanctuary? Eighth Day. Holiness and Indwelling. Solomon's Temple Spiritualized In his Tabernacle Resources What was the Holy of Holies? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was Herod's temple? | GotQuestions.org Is the priesthood of all believers biblical? | GotQuestions.org Veil: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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