Exodus 26:13

And the tent curtains will be a cubit longer on either side, and the excess will hang over the sides of the tabernacle to cover it.

Study Bible

And the tent curtains
The Hebrew word for "tent" is "אֹהֶל" (ohel), which signifies a temporary dwelling place. In the context of the tabernacle, it represents the transient nature of human life and the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness. The "curtains" (יְרִיעָה, yeriah) were made of fine linen, symbolizing purity and the righteousness of God. These curtains served as a protective covering, reminding us of God's provision and shelter over His people.

will be a cubit longer
A "cubit" (אַמָּה, ammah) is an ancient measurement roughly equivalent to the length of a forearm, about 18 inches. The specific measurement indicates precision and intentionality in God's design. The extra length of the curtains signifies God's abundant grace and provision, ensuring that His dwelling place is fully covered and protected. It reflects the idea that God's plans are meticulous and His care for His people is comprehensive.

on either side
This phrase emphasizes balance and symmetry in the construction of the tabernacle. It suggests that God's presence and protection are evenly distributed, not favoring one side over the other. This can be seen as a metaphor for God's impartiality and fairness, as He extends His love and protection equally to all His people.

to cover the sides
The Hebrew root for "cover" is "כָּסָה" (kasah), which means to conceal or hide. This covering of the sides of the tabernacle signifies God's protection and the sanctity of His dwelling place. It also symbolizes the covering of sin through atonement, pointing forward to the ultimate covering provided by Christ's sacrifice.

of the tabernacle
The "tabernacle" (מִשְׁכָּן, mishkan) was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. It represents God's desire to dwell among His people and be accessible to them. The tabernacle is a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14), and the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with humanity. The construction and design of the tabernacle reflect the holiness and majesty of God, calling His people to worship and reverence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the tabernacle from God on Mount Sinai.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place for God among the Israelites, designed according to divine specifications.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were instructed to build the tabernacle as a place of worship and meeting with God.

4. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites wandered for 40 years and where the tabernacle was constructed and used.

5. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled artisans appointed by God to oversee the construction of the tabernacle and its furnishings.

Teaching Points

Attention to Detail in Worship
The specific measurements and instructions for the tabernacle remind us of the importance of reverence and precision in our worship practices.

God's Provision and Protection
The extra cubit of curtain symbolizes God's provision and protection, covering and safeguarding His dwelling place, just as He covers and protects us.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The tabernacle serves as a physical representation of God's desire to dwell with His people, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Israelites' adherence to God's detailed plans for the tabernacle underscores the importance of obedience in our relationship with God.

Community Involvement in God's Work
The construction of the tabernacle involved the entire community, illustrating the collective responsibility and privilege of participating in God's work.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the detailed construction of the tabernacle reflect God's character and His expectations for worship?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship today is both reverent and aligned with God's instructions?

3. How does the concept of God dwelling among His people in the tabernacle connect to the New Testament understanding of Jesus and the Holy Spirit?

4. What are some practical ways we can experience and acknowledge God's protection and provision in our daily lives?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, work together to fulfill God's purposes, similar to the Israelites' collective effort in building the tabernacle?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions for the construction of the tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of following God's precise directions.

Hebrews 9
This chapter in the New Testament discusses the significance of the tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ's work and the heavenly sanctuary.

John 1:14
The concept of God dwelling among His people is fulfilled in Jesus, who "tabernacled" among us, highlighting the continuity of God's presence from the tabernacle to Christ.