Exodus 38:18

The curtain for the entrance to the courtyard was embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen. It was twenty cubits long and, like the curtains of the courtyard, five cubits high,

Study Bible

The curtain for the entrance to the courtyard
The "curtain" here is a significant element in the construction of the Tabernacle, serving as a barrier and a point of entry. In Hebrew, the word for curtain is "מָסָךְ" (masak), which implies a covering or a screen. This curtain was not merely functional but also symbolic, representing the separation between the sacred space of the Tabernacle and the outside world. It signifies the holiness of God and the need for purity and reverence when approaching Him.

embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn
The use of "blue, purple, and scarlet yarn" is rich with symbolism. Blue often represents the heavens and divine revelation, purple signifies royalty and kingship, and scarlet symbolizes sacrifice and atonement. The Hebrew words for these colors are "תְּכֵלֶת" (techelet) for blue, "אַרְגָּמָן" (argaman) for purple, and "שָׁנִי" (shani) for scarlet. These colors together reflect the multifaceted nature of God’s covenant with Israel, encompassing His divine authority, His kingship, and the sacrificial system that pointed towards redemption.

and finely spun linen
The "finely spun linen" indicates the quality and purity of the materials used. Linen, or "שֵׁשׁ" (shesh) in Hebrew, was a symbol of purity and righteousness. The use of such fine materials underscores the importance of approaching God with the best we have to offer, reflecting His holiness and the purity required to stand in His presence.

the work of a weaver
This phrase highlights the craftsmanship involved in creating the curtain. The Hebrew term "מַעֲשֵׂה חֹשֵׁב" (ma'aseh choshev) refers to skilled, artistic work. This craftsmanship reflects the care and dedication required in worship and service to God. It also points to the beauty and order inherent in God’s creation and His instructions for worship.

It was twenty cubits long
The measurement "twenty cubits long" provides a sense of scale and proportion. A cubit, approximately 18 inches or 45 centimeters, was a common unit of measurement in ancient times. The length of the curtain signifies the grandeur and majesty of the entrance, inviting worshippers into a sacred space while maintaining the necessary separation from the profane.

and, like the hangings of the courtyard, five cubits high
The height of "five cubits" aligns with the rest of the courtyard hangings, maintaining uniformity and order in the Tabernacle’s design. This consistency reflects God’s nature as a God of order and precision. The height also serves as a reminder of the boundary between the divine and the human, emphasizing the reverence and respect required when approaching God’s presence.

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 that served as the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

4. The Entrance Curtain
A significant part of the Tabernacle, symbolizing the separation between the holy and the common, made with specific colors and materials.

5. The Israelites
The people of God, who were commanded to construct the Tabernacle according to the divine pattern given to Moses.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Colors and Materials
The blue, purple, and scarlet yarns, along with the finely spun linen, represent royalty, divinity, and sacrifice. These colors point to the majesty and holiness of God and foreshadow the work of Christ.

The Role of Skilled Craftsmanship
The work of a weaver highlights the importance of using God-given talents for His glory. It encourages believers to dedicate their skills and abilities to the service of God.

Separation and Access
The entrance curtain signifies the separation between God and man due to sin, but also the access provided through the prescribed way. This points to Christ as the ultimate way to God.

Obedience to Divine Instructions
The meticulous following of God's instructions for the Tabernacle construction teaches the importance of obedience and reverence in worship.

God's Presence Among His People
The Tabernacle serves as a reminder of God's desire to dwell among His people, encouraging believers to cultivate a personal relationship with Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the colors and materials used in the entrance curtain of the Tabernacle 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, as Bezalel and Oholiab did?

3. How does the concept of separation and access in the Tabernacle relate to our relationship with God through Jesus Christ?

4. What can we learn from the Israelites' obedience to God's detailed instructions for the Tabernacle about our own approach to worship and service?

5. How does the presence of God in the Tabernacle encourage us to seek a deeper relationship with Him in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 26:36-37
Provides earlier instructions for the making of the entrance curtain, emphasizing its importance and the specific materials to be used.

Hebrews 9:1-10
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its regulations, including the significance of the Tabernacle and its furnishings as a foreshadowing of Christ's work.

John 1:14
Relates to the concept of God dwelling among His people, as the Word became flesh and "tabernacled" among us, fulfilling the symbolism of the Tabernacle.

Matthew 27:51
Describes the tearing of the temple veil at Christ's crucifixion, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity.