Exodus 26
Berean Study Bible

The Ten Curtains for the Tabernacle

“You are to construct the tabernacle itself with ten curtains of finely spun linen,

The tabernacle would serve as Israel’s portable sanctuary throughout the wilderness journey. Fine linen marked the structure as set apart for God’s worship, reflecting the purity required in approaching His presence. The ten curtains formed a complete covering for the sacred dwelling.

Exo 36:8 All the skilled craftsmen among the workmen…
Exo 25:9 You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings…
Heb 8:5 The place where they serve is a copy and shadow…

each with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn,

The colors reflected the majesty of the God who dwelt among His people: blue associated with heaven, purple with royal authority, and scarlet with sacrificial blood. Their use in the tabernacle joined the worship of God’s holiness, kingship, and provision for atonement.

Exo 35:25 Every skilled woman spun with her hands…
Exo 39:1 From the blue, purple, and scarlet yarn they made…
2Ch 2:7 Send me, therefore, a craftsman skilled in engraving…

and cherubim skillfully worked into them.

Cherubim represented heavenly attendants who stand near God’s presence. Their woven images reminded Israel that the tabernacle was holy ground, guarded from casual approach, and patterned after the heavenly dwelling of God.

Exo 36:35 Next, he made the veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn,…
2Ch 3:14 He made the veil of blue, purple, and crimson yarn…
1Ki 6:29 Then he carved the walls all around the temple,…

Each curtain shall be twenty-eight cubits long

The curtains measured about forty-two feet in length, providing sufficient coverage for the Tabernacle structure. Their size reflected the care and precision required for Israel’s central place of worship during the wilderness journey.

Isa 54:2 “Enlarge the site of your tent, stretch out the curtains…
Isa 40:22 He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth;…
Psa 104:2 He wraps Himself in light as with a garment;…

and four cubits wide—

At roughly six feet wide, each panel could be made, carried, and assembled as part of the larger covering, reflecting the practical needs of a nomadic people and suggesting completeness and unity among Israel.

1Ki 6:20 The inner sanctuary was twenty cubits long…
2Ch 3:3 The foundation that Solomon laid for the house of God…
Ezk 40:47 Next he measured the court. It was square…

all curtains the same size.

Identical dimensions allowed the curtains to be joined in an orderly manner, forming a unified covering over the Tabernacle. The detailed measurements show that Israel’s worship was to follow God’s revealed design rather than human preference.

Exo 25:40 See to it that you make everything according to the pattern…
Exo 25:9 You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings…
Heb 8:5 The place where they serve is a copy and shadow…

Five of the curtains are to be joined together,

Five linen curtains were to be joined together to form one panel for the Tabernacle covering.

Exo 36:10 And he joined five of the curtains together,…
Exo 36:13 He also made fifty gold clasps to join the curtains…
Exo 36:12 He made fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops…

and the other five joined as well.

The ten curtains were arranged in two equal sections, providing an orderly and symmetrical covering according to the pattern God gave Moses.

Eph 2:21-22 In Him the whole building is fitted together…
Eph 4:16 From Him the whole body, fitted and held together…
Col 2:19 He has lost connection to the head, from whom the body…

Make loops of blue material

Blue loops were to be sewn along the edges of the linen curtains. They provided the means by which the separate curtain panels could be joined, forming a unified covering over the tabernacle.

Exo 36:11 He made loops of blue material on the edge of the end…
Num 15:38 Speak to the Israelites and tell them that…
Exo 25:4 blue, purple, and scarlet yarn; fine linen and goat hair;

on the edge of the end curtain in the first set,

The ten curtains were arranged in two sets of five. Loops were placed on the outer edge of the fifth curtain so that the first set could be connected to the second.

Exo 36:12 He made fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops…
Exo 36:15 Each of the eleven curtains was the same size—…
2Ch 3:14 He made the veil of blue, purple, and crimson yarn…

and do the same for the end curtain in the second set.

Matching loops on the second set ensured that the curtains aligned properly when fastened together. The careful arrangement of every part reflected the holiness of the sanctuary where the Lord would dwell among Israel.

Exo 36:13 He also made fifty gold clasps to join the curtains…
Exo 36:16 He joined five of the curtains into one set.…
Exo 36:14 He then made curtains of goat hair for the tent…

Make fifty loops on one curtain

Blue loops were placed along the outer edge of one set of linen curtains.

Exo 36:12 He made fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops…
Exo 36:11 He made loops of blue material on the edge of the end…

and fifty loops on the end curtain of the second set,

An equal number was made on the corresponding edge of the second set.

Exo 36:17 He made fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain…
Exo 36:18 He also made fifty bronze clasps to join the tent together.…

so that the loops line up opposite one another.

Their precise alignment allowed the gold clasps to join the two sections into one complete covering for the tabernacle.

Exo 25:20 And the cherubim are to have wings that spread upward,…
1Ki 6:27 And he placed the cherubim inside the innermost room…

Make fifty gold clasps as well,

Gold fittingly marked the sanctuary furnishings and coverings as set apart for God’s dwelling. The fifty clasps provided the necessary means to secure the inner curtains according to the pattern God gave Moses.

Exo 36:13 He also made fifty gold clasps to join the curtains…
Exo 39:33 Then they brought the tabernacle to Moses: the tent…

and join the curtains together with the clasps,

The clasps fastened the two large sets of embroidered linen curtains into one covering. What might otherwise remain separate pieces became a single ordered structure surrounding the holy place.

Exo 36:16 He joined five of the curtains into one set.…
Ezk 37:17 Then join them together into one stick…
Eph 4:16 From Him the whole body, fitted and held together…

so that the tabernacle will be a unit.

The completed tabernacle stood as one sanctuary where God would dwell among Israel. Its unified design reflected the order, holiness, and completeness required for worship before the Lord.

Exo 36:18 He also made fifty bronze clasps to join the tent together.…
1Co 12:12 The body is a unit, though it is composed of many parts…
Jhn 17:21 that all of them may be one, as You, Father, are in Me…

The Eleven Curtains of Goat Hair

You are to make curtains of goat hair

Goat hair was widely used for tents because it was durable and resistant to weather. Its use provided a practical outer covering for Israel’s sanctuary during the wilderness journey.

Exo 36:14 He then made curtains of goat hair for the tent…
Exo 35:26 And all the skilled women whose hearts were stirred…
Exo 35:23 Everyone who had blue, purple, or scarlet yarn…

for the tent over the tabernacle—

This layer covered the linen curtains and added protection to the structure where the Lord manifested His presence among Israel. The successive coverings marked the tabernacle as a holy place, distinct from the surrounding camp.

Exo 40:19 Then he spread the tent over the tabernacle…
Exo 36:19 Additionally, he made for the tent a covering…
Num 4:25 They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle…

eleven curtains in all.

The additional curtain supplied the needed coverage for the larger outer tent; the number eleven may suggest completeness and sufficiency for this purpose. Every measurement and material was specified by God, ensuring that the tabernacle was constructed according to His design.

Exo 36:15 Each of the eleven curtains was the same size—…
Exo 36:16 He joined five of the curtains into one set.…
Exo 36:17 He made fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain…

Each of the eleven curtains

Each of the eleven goat-hair curtains was to be the same size, thirty cubits long and four cubits wide. Joined together, they formed the outer covering of the tabernacle, protecting the inner linen curtains and extending over the structure.

Exo 36:14 He then made curtains of goat hair for the tent…
Num 4:25-26 They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle…
Isa 54:2 “Enlarge the site of your tent, stretch out the curtains…

is to be the same size—

The matching dimensions ensured an orderly covering that fit the tabernacle according to God’s instructions, reflecting His consistent, unchanging, and orderly nature.

1Ki 6:25 The second cherub also measured ten cubits;…
2Ch 3:8 Then he made the Most Holy Place; its length corresponded…
Rev 21:16 The city lies foursquare, with its width…

thirty cubits long

Each curtain measured about forty-five feet in length, providing sufficient coverage over the roof and sides.

1Ki 6:2 The house that King Solomon built for the LORD…
2Ch 3:3 The foundation that Solomon laid for the house of God…

and four cubits wide.

Each was about six feet wide, allowing the joined curtains to cover the tabernacle securely.

Exo 36:15 Each of the eleven curtains was the same size—…
Ezk 41:5 Next he measured the wall of the temple to be six cubits…
1Ki 7:27 In addition, he made ten movable stands of bronze,…

Join five of the curtains into one set

The ten linen curtains were arranged in two large panels, forming the inner covering of the tabernacle. Their careful construction reflected the holiness and order required for Israel’s worship.

Exo 36:14-16 He then made curtains of goat hair for the tent…
Isa 54:2 “Enlarge the site of your tent, stretch out the curtains…
2Sa 7:2 he said to Nathan the prophet, “Here I am”…

and the other six into another.

The two sections were joined to cover the tabernacle properly, with the larger section extending toward the front. The design provided a complete covering for the sacred structure where God met with His people.

Exo 36:17-18 He made fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain…
Num 3:25-26 The duties of the Gershonites at the Tent of Meeting were…
Num 4:25 They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle…

Then fold the sixth curtain over double at the front of the tent.

The extra length at the entrance strengthened and protected the front of the tabernacle. It also marked the approach to the holy place, where access was regulated according to God’s commands.

Exo 36:19 Additionally, he made for the tent a covering…
Exo 40:19 Then he spread the tent over the tabernacle…
Exo 40:28 Then he put up the curtain at the entrance…

Make fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain in the first set,

The loops were placed on the outer edge of the first set of five curtains so it could be joined to the second set. Made of blue yarn, they formed part of the carefully ordered structure God gave Moses for the Tabernacle.

Exo 36:11 He made loops of blue material on the edge of the end…
Exo 36:12 He made fifty loops on one curtain and fifty loops…

and fifty loops along the edge of the corresponding curtain in the second set.

Matching loops on the second set allowed the curtains to be fastened together with gold clasps, forming one united covering over the Tabernacle. Every measurement and connection served God’s purpose that His dwelling place among Israel be made exactly as He commanded.

Exo 36:17 He made fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain…
Exo 36:18 He also made fifty bronze clasps to join the tent together.…

Make fifty bronze clasps

Bronze provided durable fittings for the outer tent coverings. The fifty clasps supplied the strength needed to secure the curtains across the full length of the structure.

Exo 36:18 He also made fifty bronze clasps to join the tent together.…
Exo 39:32 So all the work for the tabernacle was completed.…
Heb 8:5 The place where they serve is a copy and shadow…

and put them through the loops

The clasps passed through corresponding loops on the joined curtain sections, fastening them according to the pattern God gave Moses.

Exo 36:11 He made loops of blue material on the edge of the end…
Exo 36:17 He made fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain…
Exo 39:21 Then they tied the rings of the breastpiece…

to join the tent together

This work united the separate coverings into one complete outer tent over the tabernacle.

Exo 36:13 He also made fifty gold clasps to join the curtains…
Eph 2:21 In Him the whole building is fitted together…
Col 2:19 He has lost connection to the head, from whom the body…

as a unit.

The finished structure stood as a single dwelling place for the Lord among Israel, carefully assembled from many distinct parts.

Jhn 17:21-23 that all of them may be one, as You, Father, are in Me…
Eph 4:4-6 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called…
1Co 12:12-13 The body is a unit, though it is composed of many parts…

As for the overlap that remains of the tent curtains,

The overlap of the goat-hair tent curtains extended beyond the linen curtains beneath, providing added protection for the tabernacle. Its measured length showed that every part of the structure was arranged according to God’s instructions.

Exo 40:19 Then he spread the tent over the tabernacle…
Isa 54:2 “Enlarge the site of your tent, stretch out the curtains…
Jer 49:29 They will take their tents and flocks, their tent curtains…

the half curtain that is left over

The half curtain that was left over was not wasted but formed part of the covering required for the tabernacle. Its design provided sufficient material to shield the sacred structure from exposure.

Exo 36:16 He joined five of the curtains into one set.…
Exo 36:14 He then made curtains of goat hair for the tent…
Exo 36:17 He made fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain…

shall hang down over the back of the tabernacle.

This covered the western end, completing the outer protection of the tent. The careful arrangement emphasized that the place where God dwelt among Israel was to be fully covered and set apart.

Num 3:23 The Gershonite clans were to camp on the west,…
Num 3:25 The duties of the Gershonites at the Tent of Meeting were…
Num 4:25 They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle…

And the tent curtains will be a cubit longer on either side,

God gave exact dimensions for the tabernacle so that every part would fit according to His design. The additional length of the linen curtains extended beyond the framework, preparing the structure to be fully covered by the outer layers.

Exo 36:8-10 All the skilled craftsmen among the workmen…
Isa 40:22 He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth;…
Isa 54:2 “Enlarge the site of your tent, stretch out the curtains…

and the excess will hang over the sides of the tabernacle to cover it.

The overhanging material protected the tabernacle’s sides and completed its covering. Nothing in the construction was left exposed or unfinished, reflecting the completeness of God’s provision for the place where He would dwell among Israel.

Exo 36:14-19 He then made curtains of goat hair for the tent…
Exo 40:19 Then he spread the tent over the tabernacle…
Num 4:25-26 They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle…

Also make a covering for the tent

The Tabernacle was the portable sanctuary where the Lord met with Israel during their journey through the wilderness. Its coverings protected the sacred structure and marked it as the place set apart for God’s dwelling among His people.

Exo 40:19 Then he spread the tent over the tabernacle…
Num 4:25 They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle…
Exo 39:34 the covering of ram skins dyed red, the covering…

out of ram skins dyed red,

These durable skins formed a protective layer over the embroidered curtains. Rams were used in offerings and consecration, and the red-dyed covering reflected the seriousness of sacrifice and atonement in Israel’s worship.

Exo 36:19 Additionally, he made for the tent a covering…
Exo 25:5 ram skins dyed red and fine leather; acacia wood;
Exo 35:7 ram skins dyed red and fine leather; acacia wood;

and over that a covering of fine leather.

The outer layer was made from a strong, weather-resistant material, shielding the Tabernacle from sun, wind, and rain. Though plain in outward appearance, the sanctuary contained the glory and holiness of God within.

Num 4:6 They are to place over this a covering of fine leather,…
Num 4:8 And they shall spread a scarlet cloth over them…
Num 4:11 Over the gold altar they are to spread a blue cloth…

The Frames and Bases

You are to construct

God gave Moses exact directions on Mount Sinai, leaving no part of the sanctuary to human invention.

Exo 25:9 You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings…
Exo 36:1 So Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person…
Exo 40:16 Moses did everything just as the LORD had commanded him.

upright frames

These wooden supports formed the walls of the tabernacle and gave its portable structure strength during Israel’s wilderness journey.

Exo 36:20 Next, he constructed upright frames of acacia wood…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…

of acacia wood

Acacia was strong, durable wood suited to the desert and used throughout the sacred furnishings.

Exo 35:24 And all who could present an offering of silver or bronze…
Exo 25:10 And they are to construct an ark of acacia wood,…
Exo 27:1 You are to build an altar of acacia wood.…

for the tabernacle.

The tabernacle was God’s appointed dwelling place among Israel, where He met with His people and received their worship according to His covenant.

Exo 40:2 On the first day of the first month, set up the tabernacle…
Exo 39:32 So all the work for the tabernacle was completed.…
Exo 35:11 the tabernacle with its tent and covering,…

Each frame is to be ten cubits long

Each upright frame stood about fifteen feet high, forming the walls of the Tabernacle. Their uniform height created an ordered structure suitable for the holy dwelling where the LORD would meet with Israel.

Exo 36:21 Each frame was ten cubits long and a cubit and a half wide.
Exo 36:20 Next, he constructed upright frames of acacia wood…
Exo 36:22 Two tenons were connected to each other for each frame…

and a cubit and a half wide.

At about twenty-seven inches wide, each frame fit with the others to form solid, continuous walls. These exact dimensions provided the proper length for the Tabernacle and ensured that every part was made according to God’s instructions.

Exo 25:10 And they are to construct an ark of acacia wood,…
Exo 37:1 Bezalel went on to construct the ark of acacia wood,…
Exo 25:17 And you are to construct a mercy seat of pure gold,…

Two tenons must be connected to each other for each frame.

Each upright frame was fitted with two projections at its base, designed to rest securely in the silver sockets below. This interlocking construction gave the tabernacle strength while allowing it to be dismantled and carried during Israel’s wilderness journey. Every part supported the whole, reflecting the care required for the place where the Lord would dwell among His people.

Exo 36:22 Two tenons were connected to each other for each frame…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…

Make all the frames of the tabernacle in this way.

The same pattern was to govern every frame, ensuring that the structure stood straight, secure, and orderly. Moses was not left to invent the design; the tabernacle was built according to God’s instructions. Its ordered construction testified that access to God was provided on His terms and according to His appointed pattern.

Exo 36:20 Next, he constructed upright frames of acacia wood…
Exo 36:23 He constructed twenty frames for the south side…

Construct

God commanded a carefully ordered structure, with every part made according to His design. The work required exact obedience as Israel prepared a dwelling place for His presence.

Exo 25:9 You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings…
Exo 35:10 Let every skilled craftsman among you come and make…
Heb 8:5 The place where they serve is a copy and shadow…

twenty frames

These acacia-wood boards formed a strong, portable wall for the sanctuary. Their number and arrangement provided the necessary length and stability for Israel’s wilderness journey.

Exo 36:23 He constructed twenty frames for the south side…
Exo 36:25 For the second side of the tabernacle, the north side,…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…

for the south side

The boards extended along the southern side, facing the wilderness region of the Negev. The layout gave the tabernacle a defined orientation and protected enclosure.

Num 3:29 The clans of the Kohathites were to camp on the south side…
Exo 27:9 You are also to make a courtyard for the tabernacle.…
Exo 38:9 Then he constructed the courtyard. The south side…

of the tabernacle,

The tabernacle stood at the center of Israel’s camp as the appointed place of worship and meeting with God. Its ordered design anticipated the fuller revelation of God dwelling among His people through Christ.

Exo 40:17 So the tabernacle was set up on the first day…
Exo 25:8 And they are to make a sanctuary for Me,…
Heb 9:2 A tabernacle was prepared. In its first room were…

with forty silver bases

The silver bases formed the foundation for the tabernacle’s south side. Silver collected from Israel’s atonement money was later used for these bases, linking the structure to the ransom paid for the people.

Exo 36:24 with forty silver bases to put under the twenty frames…
Exo 38:27 The hundred talents of silver were used to cast the bases…

under the twenty frames—

The twenty acacia-wood frames stood upright along the south side, creating a firm wall for the sanctuary. Their uniform arrangement reflected the ordered pattern God gave Moses.

Exo 36:23 He constructed twenty frames for the south side…
Exo 35:11 the tabernacle with its tent and covering,…

two bases for each frame,

Each frame rested on two separate bases, providing the necessary support for its width and weight. The repeated design gave the tabernacle strength and stability while it was assembled and moved through the wilderness.

Exo 36:26-27 and forty silver bases—two bases under each frame.…
Exo 36:30 So there were eight frames and sixteen silver bases…

one under each tenon.

The tenons at the bottom of every frame fit securely into the silver bases, holding the structure in place. Every part was made according to God’s instructions, establishing a suitable dwelling place for His presence among Israel.

Exo 36:17 He made fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain…
Exo 36:22 Two tenons were connected to each other for each frame…

For the second side of the tabernacle,

For the second side of the tabernacle, the northern wall was to match the southern side in length and construction, preserving the ordered design God gave Moses for Israel’s portable sanctuary.

Exo 36:27 He made six frames for the rear of the tabernacle…
Exo 36:23 He constructed twenty frames for the south side…

the north side,

The north side of the tabernacle was enclosed by this wall, helping to define the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place. The entrance remained on the east side.

Num 3:35 The leader of the families of the Merarites…
Num 2:25 On the north side, the divisions of Dan are to camp…

make twenty frames

The command to make twenty frames provided the tabernacle with upright acacia-wood supports, later overlaid with gold and set in silver bases, giving the structure strength and precise form.

Exo 36:28 and two frames for the two back corners of the tabernacle,
Exo 36:29 coupled together from bottom to top and fitted into a ring…
Exo 36:30 So there were eight frames and sixteen silver bases…

and forty silver bases—

Silver bases formed the foundation for the Tabernacle frames, providing strength and permanence for the structure where God would dwell among Israel. The use of silver recalls the atonement money collected from the people, linking the sanctuary’s foundation with redemption.

Exo 36:24 with forty silver bases to put under the twenty frames…
Exo 38:27 The hundred talents of silver were used to cast the bases…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…

two bases under each frame.

Each frame rested securely on two bases, giving the Tabernacle stability and order. The careful construction followed God’s instructions exactly, showing that His dwelling place was not built according to human preference but according to His appointed design.

Num 4:31-32 This is the duty for all their service at the Tent…
Num 3:36-37 The duties assigned to the sons of Merari…
Heb 8:5 The place where they serve is a copy and shadow…

Make six frames for the rear of the tabernacle,

Six acacia-wood frames formed the back wall of the sanctuary, completing its rectangular structure and providing strength for the coverings and interior divisions.

Exo 36:27 He made six frames for the rear of the tabernacle…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…
Num 4:31 This is the duty for all their service at the Tent…

the west side,

The entrance faced east, so the west end stood behind the Most Holy Place, where the ark of the covenant would rest. This arrangement directed movement through the tabernacle toward the place appointed for God’s presence among His people.

Num 3:23 The Gershonite clans were to camp on the west,…
Exo 27:12 The curtains on the west side of the courtyard shall be…
Exo 38:12 The west side was fifty cubits long and had curtains…

and two frames

Two frames were to be added as structural supports for the sanctuary’s rear wall. They were made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold.

Exo 36:28 and two frames for the two back corners of the tabernacle,
Exo 36:29 coupled together from bottom to top and fitted into a ring…

for the two back corners

The two back corners completed the western end, where the Most Holy Place stood behind the veil and housed the ark.

Num 3:23 The Gershonite clans were to camp on the west,…
Num 3:29 The clans of the Kohathites were to camp on the south side…
Num 3:35 The leader of the families of the Merarites…

of the tabernacle,

The tabernacle was secured in its form as God’s appointed dwelling place among Israel.

Exo 25:8 And they are to make a sanctuary for Me,…
Heb 8:5 The place where they serve is a copy and shadow…
Heb 9:2 A tabernacle was prepared. In its first room were…

coupled together from bottom to top

The corner boards were joined along their full height, strengthening the rear corners of the Tabernacle. Their construction gave the framework stability and reflected the care required for the sanctuary where God dwelt among Israel.

Eph 2:21 In Him the whole building is fitted together…
Eph 4:16 From Him the whole body, fitted and held together…
Col 2:2 that they may be encouraged in heart, knit together in love,…

and fitted into a single ring.

Each pair of corner boards was secured by a ring at the top, binding the boards into one unit. The arrangement prevented separation and maintained the proper shape of the Tabernacle.

Exo 25:14 Insert the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark…
Exo 30:4 And make two gold rings below the molding on opposite sides…
Exo 27:4 Construct for it a grate of bronze mesh,…

These will serve as the two corners.

These boards formed the two rear corners on the west side of the Tabernacle. Their support was essential to the structure, which God designed as the place of His covenant presence with His people.

Psa 144:12 Then our sons will be like plants nurtured in their youth,…
Psa 118:22 The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.
Isa 28:16 So this is what the Lord GOD says: “See, I lay a stone…

So there are to be eight frames

These formed the west end of the Tabernacle, including the two reinforced corner frames. Together with the frames on the north and south sides, they enclosed the sacred structure according to the pattern God gave Moses.

Exo 36:31-34 He also made five crossbars of acacia wood for the frames…
Exo 39:33 Then they brought the tabernacle to Moses: the tent…

and sixteen silver bases—

The frames stood in silver bases cast from the silver collected from the Israelites’ atonement offering. The bases provided a firm foundation for the wooden framework as the Tabernacle was assembled and transported in the wilderness.

Exo 38:27-28 The hundred talents of silver were used to cast the bases…
Num 3:36-37 The duties assigned to the sons of Merari…

two under each frame.

Each frame had two tenons fitted into two bases, keeping the structure upright, secure, and properly aligned.

Num 4:31-32 This is the duty for all their service at the Tent…
Exo 40:18-19 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…

You are also to make five crossbars of acacia wood

Acacia was a hard, durable desert wood suitable for the tabernacle’s portable structure. The five crossbars, with five symbolizing grace, would strengthen and secure the upright frames, allowing the sanctuary to withstand repeated assembly and transport during Israel’s wilderness journey.

Exo 36:31-34 He also made five crossbars of acacia wood for the frames…
Num 4:31-32 This is the duty for all their service at the Tent…
Exo 25:10-15 And they are to construct an ark of acacia wood,…

for the frames on one side of the tabernacle,

Each side of the tabernacle was built according to God’s detailed design. The ordered framework provided a stable dwelling place for God’s presence among Israel and reflected the care required in approaching Him as He commanded.

Exo 36:20-24 Next, he constructed upright frames of acacia wood…
Num 3:36-37 The duties assigned to the sons of Merari…
Exo 40:18-19 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…

five for those on the other side,

Five bars were made for the frames on the south side, matching the support provided for the north side. These horizontal bars joined the upright frames and gave the tabernacle its needed strength and stability.

Exo 36:32 five for those on the other side,…
Exo 36:34 And he overlaid the frames with gold and made gold rings.…

and five for those on the rear side of the tabernacle,

The western end of the tabernacle also received five bars, preserving the same ordered design throughout the structure. Every part was built according to the pattern God gave Moses.

Num 3:23 The Gershonite clans were to camp on the west,…
Exo 38:12 The west side was fifty cubits long and had curtains…

to the west.

The rear of the tabernacle faced west, symbolizing the setting sun and the end of a journey, while its entrance faced east. The bars secured the boards at this end and completed the framework surrounding the Holy Place and Most Holy Place.

Num 2:18 On the west side, the divisions of Ephraim are to camp…
Exo 27:12 The curtains on the west side of the courtyard shall be…

The central crossbar

The central crossbar ran through the middle of the tabernacle frames, strengthening the structure and binding its parts together. It was part of the careful design God gave Moses for the portable sanctuary where He would dwell among Israel.

Neh 3:3 The Fish Gate was rebuilt by the sons of Hassenaah.…
Psa 107:16 For He has broken down the gates of bronze…
Isa 45:2 I will go before you and level the mountains;…

in the middle of the frames

The bar ran through the middle of the frames, supporting the boards along their full length. This arrangement gave the tabernacle stability during Israel’s journeys and reflected the order required for the place set apart for God’s presence.

1Ki 6:6 The bottom floor was five cubits wide, the middle floor…
Jdg 16:29 And Samson reached out for the two central pillars…
1Ki 6:8 The entrance to the bottom floor was on the south side…

shall extend from one end to the other.

The single bar joined the frames from one side of the tabernacle to the other, completing the system of supports. Every detail served the practical need for a secure structure that could be assembled and carried through the wilderness.

Deu 4:32 Indeed, ask now from one end of the heavens to the other…
Deu 28:64 Then the LORD will scatter you among all the nations,…
Jer 25:33 Those slain by the LORD on that day will be spread…

Overlay the frames with gold

Gold gave the tabernacle’s supporting structure a fitting splendor for the earthly dwelling place of the holy God. Its use throughout the sanctuary set the structure apart from ordinary Israelite tents and reflected the majesty of the God who met with His people there.

2Ch 3:4 The portico at the front, extending across the width…
1Ki 6:21 So Solomon overlaid the inside of the temple with pure gold…
1Ki 6:22 So he overlaid with gold the whole interior of the temple,…

and make gold rings to hold the crossbars.

The rings secured the crossbars to the frames, joining the separate boards into a stable structure. Their gold construction matched the rest of the tabernacle furnishings and preserved the unity of its sacred design.

Exo 25:14-15 Insert the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark…
Exo 27:7 The poles are to be inserted into the rings…
Num 4:6 They are to place over this a covering of fine leather,…

Also overlay the crossbars with gold.

The crossbars strengthened the walls and were covered with gold like the frames they supported. Even the structural elements of the tabernacle were made worthy of the Lord’s presence, showing that the whole sanctuary was devoted to His glory.

Exo 36:31-34 He also made five crossbars of acacia wood for the frames…
1Ki 6:20 The inner sanctuary was twenty cubits long…
2Ch 3:7 He overlaid its beams, thresholds, walls, and doors…

So you are to set up the tabernacle

Israel’s sanctuary was to be erected after every detail had been prepared. Though portable for the wilderness journey, it marked the Lord’s dwelling among His covenant people. Its courts and inner rooms displayed both God’s nearness and the barrier sin had created between God and man.

Exo 40:17 So the tabernacle was set up on the first day…
Exo 40:18 When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases…

according to the pattern

Moses was not free to alter the design or arrange worship according to personal preference. The materials, dimensions, furnishings, and priestly service were established by God, teaching Israel that He is approached in holiness and obedience.

Exo 25:9 You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings…
Act 7:44 Our fathers had the tabernacle of the Testimony…

shown you on the mountain.

On Mount Sinai, where the Lord made His covenant with Israel and gave the Law, Moses received the design for the tabernacle. Its divine origin confirmed that the sanctuary was not a human invention but the earthly dwelling place ordained by God.

Exo 25:40 See to it that you make everything according to the pattern…
Heb 8:5 The place where they serve is a copy and shadow…

The Veil

Make a veil

Make a veil to divide the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, where God’s presence was uniquely manifested above the ark. It marked a boundary no one could cross except the high priest on the appointed Day of Atonement.

Lev 16:2 And the LORD said to Moses: “Tell your brother Aaron…
Heb 9:3 Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy…

of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn,

The blue, purple, and scarlet yarn reflected the heavenly, royal, and sacrificial character of worship before God.

Exo 28:5 They shall use gold, along with blue, purple, and…
2Ch 3:14 He made the veil of blue, purple, and crimson yarn…

and finely spun linen,

Finely spun linen symbolized purity and holiness, making it appropriate for the sacred dwelling place.

Exo 35:25-26 Every skilled woman spun with her hands…
Exo 39:27-29 For Aaron and his sons they made tunics of fine linen…

with cherubim skillfully worked into it.

The cherubim recalled the guardians placed at Eden’s entrance, showing that sinful humanity could not freely enter God’s presence. The veil pointed forward to Christ, whose sacrifice opened access to God.

Exo 36:35 Next, he made the veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn,…
1Ki 6:29 Then he carved the walls all around the temple,…

Hang it with gold hooks

Gold reflected the holiness and glory associated with God’s dwelling. The hooks held the inner veil in place, marking the boundary between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place, where God’s presence was uniquely manifested.

Exo 36:36 He also made four posts of acacia wood for it…
Exo 27:17 All the posts around the courtyard shall have silver bands,…
Exo 38:17 The bases for the posts were bronze, the hooks and bands…

on four posts of acacia wood,

The durable acacia posts provided firm support for the veil. Their placement formed a clear division within the tabernacle and underscored that access to God’s immediate presence was restricted.

Exo 25:13 And make poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold.
Exo 30:5 Make the poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold.
Exo 37:28 And he made the poles of acacia wood…

overlaid with gold

The gold covering set these supports apart for sacred use. Throughout the tabernacle, gold emphasized the majesty and purity of the God who dwelt among Israel.

Exo 25:11 Overlay it with pure gold both inside and out…
Exo 30:3 Overlay with pure gold the top and all the sides and horns…
1Ki 6:20-22 The inner sanctuary was twenty cubits long…

and standing on four silver bases.

The silver bases gave the posts a secure foundation. Silver, associated with Israel’s redemption money, fittingly supported the veil that stood before the Most Holy Place. The barrier remained until Christ’s sacrifice opened access to God for those who come through Him.

Exo 38:27 The hundred talents of silver were used to cast the bases…
Num 3:36-37 The duties assigned to the sons of Merari…
Num 4:31-32 This is the duty for all their service at the Tent…

And hang the veil from the clasps

The richly woven veil, embroidered with cherubim, was suspended from the gold clasps within the Tabernacle. Its careful placement followed the pattern God gave Moses and marked the boundary of the innermost sanctuary.

Exo 40:21 Then he brought the ark into the tabernacle,…
2Ch 3:14 He made the veil of blue, purple, and crimson yarn…
Heb 9:3 Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy…

and place the ark of the Testimony behind the veil.

The ark, containing the tablets of the covenant, stood in the Most Holy Place as the central symbol of God’s covenant presence among Israel. Its location behind the veil testified to the holiness of God and the restricted approach permitted under the sacrificial system.

1Ki 8:6 Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant…
2Ch 5:7 Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant…
Heb 9:4 containing the golden altar of incense…

So the veil will separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place.

The veil divided the priests’ daily place of service from the chamber entered only by the high priest on the Day of Atonement. It visibly declared that sin separated humanity from God. When Christ died, the temple veil was torn, showing that through His sacrifice believers have access to God.

Lev 16:2 And the LORD said to Moses: “Tell your brother Aaron…
Heb 9:7-8 But only the high priest entered the second room,…
Heb 10:19-20 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter…

Put the mercy seat

The mercy seat was the solid gold cover of the Ark, placed beneath the overshadowing cherubim. It marked the appointed place where God met with Moses and where atoning blood was presented on the Day of Atonement.

Exo 25:21 Set the mercy seat atop the ark and put the Testimony…
Exo 40:20 Moses took the Testimony and placed it in the ark,…
Lev 16:2 And the LORD said to Moses: “Tell your brother Aaron…

on the ark of the Testimony

The Ark held the stone tablets of the covenant, bearing witness to God’s law and His covenant with Israel. As the central sacred object of the Tabernacle, it represented the Lord’s presence and guidance among His people.

Exo 31:7 the Tent of Meeting, the ark of the Testimony…
Exo 40:3 Put the ark of the Testimony in it and screen off the ark…
Num 4:5 Whenever the camp sets out, Aaron and his sons are to go in…

in the Most Holy Place.

The Ark and mercy seat stood in the inner sanctuary behind the veil, the dwelling place of God’s manifested presence. Only the high priest entered there, and only once each year with sacrificial blood, showing that sinful people could approach a holy God only through atonement.

2Ch 5:7 Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant…
1Ki 8:6 Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant…
1Ki 6:16 He partitioned off the twenty cubits at the rear…

And place the table outside the veil

The Table of Showbread stood in the Holy Place and held the bread of the Presence, representing Israel’s continual fellowship with God and His faithful provision. It remained outside the inner veil, which separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, where the ark was kept and where only the high priest entered once each year.

Exo 40:22 Moses placed the table in the Tent of Meeting…
Heb 9:2 A tabernacle was prepared. In its first room were…
Lev 24:5-6 You are also to take fine flour and bake twelve loaves…

on the north side of the tabernacle,

The table was positioned along the north wall of the Holy Place. Its location was part of the precise arrangement God gave for the tabernacle, where every furnishing had an appointed place for priestly service.

Num 3:35 The leader of the families of the Merarites…
Num 2:25 On the north side, the divisions of Dan are to camp…

and put the lampstand opposite the table,

The golden lampstand stood across from the table on the south side, providing light within the otherwise enclosed Holy Place. Its lamps were tended regularly by the priests, enabling them to carry out their service before the Lord.

Exo 40:24 He also placed the lampstand in the Tent of Meeting…
1Ki 7:49 the lampstands of pure gold in front of the inner sanctuary,…
2Ch 4:7-8 He made ten gold lampstands according to their specifications…

on the south side.

The placement of the lampstand opposite the table established an ordered setting for worship: bread before God on one side and continual light on the other. Together with the altar of incense before the veil, these furnishings marked the Holy Place as the area of daily priestly ministry.

Num 3:29 The clans of the Kohathites were to camp on the south side…
Num 2:10 On the south side, the divisions of Reuben are to camp…

The Curtain for the Entrance

For the entrance to the tent,

The screen at the entrance to the tent marked the approach to the Tabernacle’s Holy Place and regulated access to the sanctuary, where the priests served before the Lord.

Exo 35:15 the altar of incense with its poles; the anointing oil…
Exo 40:5 Place the gold altar of incense in front of the ark…
Exo 40:28 Then he put up the curtain at the entrance…

you are to make a curtain

This woven screen separated the holy area from the court and underscored the holiness of God’s dwelling among Israel.

Exo 36:37 For the entrance to the tent, he made a curtain…
Exo 39:40 the curtains of the courtyard with its posts…
Num 3:25 The duties of the Gershonites at the Tent of Meeting were…

embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn,

Its costly materials and royal colors—blue signifying heaven or divinity, purple royalty, and scarlet sacrifice or atonement—reflected the glory and majesty of the God who had chosen to dwell with His people.

Exo 35:35 He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work…
Exo 35:25 Every skilled woman spun with her hands…
Exo 25:4 blue, purple, and scarlet yarn; fine linen and goat hair;

and finely spun linen.

The linen contributed to the beauty and purity appropriate for the Tabernacle and its sacred service.

Exo 39:2 Bezalel made the ephod of finely spun linen…
Exo 39:28 as well as the turban of fine linen, the ornate headbands…
Exo 28:39 You are to weave the tunic with fine linen,…

Make five posts of acacia wood for the curtain,

Acacia wood, common in the wilderness regions, was durable and resistant to decay, symbolizing the enduring nature of God’s covenant with Israel, and well suited for the tabernacle’s portable structure. These five posts, possibly signifying God’s grace, held the entrance curtain of the tent, marking the boundary between the holy place of priestly service and the outer court.

Exo 36:38 together with five posts and their hooks.…
Exo 25:13 And make poles of acacia wood and overlay them with gold.

overlay them with gold hooks,

Gold covered the posts and formed the hooks from which the curtain hung, fitting the sacred character of the tabernacle as the dwelling place of God’s presence among Israel. The entrance was guarded and ordered, allowing access only according to God’s appointed worship.

Exo 36:36 He also made four posts of acacia wood for it…
Exo 36:34 And he overlaid the frames with gold and made gold rings.…

and cast five bronze bases for them.

Bronze bases anchored the posts securely in place. Bronze was used in areas associated with sacrifice and approach, reminding Israel that access to a holy God required the cleansing and atonement He provided.

Exo 27:10 with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases,…
Exo 38:30-31 He used it to make the bases for the entrance…

This is a draft of the Berean Study Bible. Please send all comments and recommendations to bereanstudybible@aol.com.



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