Exodus 36:17

He made fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain in the first set, and fifty loops along the edge of the corresponding curtain in the second set.

Study Bible

He made
The phrase "He made" refers to the skilled craftsmanship of Bezalel and his team, who were divinely inspired artisans. The Hebrew root for "made" is עָשָׂה ('asah), which implies not just creation but also careful and intentional craftsmanship. This reflects the importance of diligence and precision in serving God, emphasizing that our work should be done with excellence as an act of worship.

fifty loops
The number "fifty" in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or fullness. The loops were part of the tabernacle's design, ensuring that the curtains could be joined together seamlessly. This meticulous attention to detail signifies the perfection and order inherent in God's creation and His plans. The loops, made of blue material, also remind us of the heavenly origin of the tabernacle's design, pointing to the divine nature of God's dwelling among His people.

on one curtain
The "curtain" here refers to the fabric panels that formed the tabernacle's covering. In Hebrew, the word for curtain is יְרִיעָה (yeriah), which can also mean a tent or a dwelling place. This highlights the tabernacle as a temporary yet sacred dwelling for God's presence among the Israelites, foreshadowing the coming of Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14).

and fifty loops on the end curtain of the second set
The repetition of "fifty loops" on the "end curtain of the second set" underscores the symmetry and unity required in the construction of the tabernacle. This reflects the unity and harmony that should exist within the body of Christ, the Church. Just as the curtains were joined to form one tabernacle, believers are called to be united in faith and purpose.

so that the loops lined up together
The phrase "lined up together" indicates precision and alignment, ensuring that the curtains fit perfectly. This meticulous alignment symbolizes the order and harmony that God desires in His creation and among His people. It serves as a reminder that our lives should be aligned with God's will, reflecting His order and purpose.

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 dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

4. The Curtains
Part of the Tabernacle's structure, specifically designed to form the covering and walls of the sacred space.

5. The Loops and Clasps
Functional elements used to join the curtains together, ensuring the Tabernacle's integrity and unity.

Teaching Points

Unity in Diversity
Just as the loops and clasps brought together different curtains to form a unified Tabernacle, believers are called to work together in unity, despite diverse gifts and roles.

Attention to Detail
The precise instructions for the Tabernacle's construction highlight the importance of obedience and attention to detail in our walk with God.

God's Dwelling Among Us
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence with His people, reminding us of the importance of creating space for God in our lives.

Symbolism of Connection
The loops and clasps symbolize the connections within the body of Christ, encouraging us to foster strong, supportive relationships within our faith communities.

Faithful Stewardship
The craftsmanship and care in constructing the Tabernacle serve as a model for how we should steward the gifts and resources God has entrusted to us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the Tabernacle, specifically the use of loops and clasps, illustrate the concept of unity within the body of Christ?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of attention to detail in our spiritual lives and service to God?

3. How does the Tabernacle serve as a reminder of God's desire to dwell among His people, and how can we create space for His presence in our daily lives?

4. What are some practical ways we can strengthen our connections with fellow believers, similar to the loops and clasps joining the curtains?

5. How can we faithfully steward the gifts and resources God has given us, inspired by the craftsmanship of Bezalel and Oholiab in constructing the Tabernacle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 26
Provides the initial instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, including the design of the curtains and loops.

1 Corinthians 12
Discusses the unity and diversity of the body of Christ, analogous to the interconnectedness of the Tabernacle's components.

Ephesians 4
Emphasizes the importance of unity in the body of Christ, similar to the unity achieved through the loops and clasps in the Tabernacle.