Exodus 26:2

Each curtain shall be twenty-eight cubits long and four cubits wide--all curtains the same size.

Study Bible

Each curtain
The Hebrew word for "curtain" is "yeri'ah," which refers to a large piece of fabric used as a covering. In the context of the Tabernacle, these curtains were not merely functional but also symbolic, representing the separation between the holy and the common. The use of multiple curtains signifies the layers of sanctity and the progressive revelation of God's presence to His people. Historically, curtains in ancient Near Eastern cultures were often used in temples and palaces, indicating the sacredness and importance of the space they enclosed.

shall be twenty-eight cubits long
The measurement of "twenty-eight cubits" reflects a precise divine instruction. A cubit, approximately 18 inches or 45 centimeters, was a common unit of measurement in ancient times, based on the length of the forearm from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. The specific length of twenty-eight cubits underscores the meticulous nature of God's design for the Tabernacle, emphasizing that every detail matters in the worship and dwelling place of God. This precision reflects God's order and perfection, reminding believers of the importance of obedience and attention to detail in their spiritual lives.

and four cubits wide
The width of "four cubits" complements the length, creating a rectangular shape for each curtain. The number four often symbolizes completeness and universality in biblical numerology, suggesting that the Tabernacle was meant to be a complete and perfect dwelling place for God among His people. The dimensions also ensured that the curtains would fit together seamlessly, highlighting the unity and harmony required in the construction of the Tabernacle, which can be seen as a metaphor for the unity and harmony desired within the body of believers.

all curtains the same size
The phrase "all curtains the same size" indicates uniformity and equality among the curtains. This uniformity can be seen as a reflection of the equality of all believers before God, regardless of their role or function within the community. In the broader scriptural context, it emphasizes the idea that every part of the Tabernacle, like every member of the body of Christ, is essential and must conform to God's standards. The consistency in size also ensured that the structure was stable and secure, symbolizing the stability and security found in a life built on God's instructions.

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 to construct the Tabernacle as a place of worship and meeting with God.

4. Mount Sinai
The mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments and the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle.

5. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites journeyed and where the Tabernacle was constructed and used.

Teaching Points

Divine Precision
The specific measurements of the curtains underscore the importance of following God's instructions precisely. This teaches us the value of obedience and attention to detail in our spiritual lives.

Unity and Uniformity
The fact that all curtains were to have the same measurements symbolizes unity and uniformity in the body of Christ. We are called to be united in purpose and mission.

God's Dwelling Among Us
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Today, we are reminded that God desires to dwell within us, making our lives a living sanctuary.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The Tabernacle's design points to deeper spiritual truths, such as the holiness of God and the need for a mediator, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Faithfulness in Small Things
The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle remind us that faithfulness in small things is crucial. God cares about the details of our lives and our faithfulness in them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the precision of the Tabernacle's construction reflect God's character, and how can this understanding impact our daily walk with Him?

2. In what ways can the unity and uniformity of the Tabernacle's curtains inspire us to seek unity within our church community?

3. How does the concept of the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place relate to the New Testament teaching that believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our lives are a suitable dwelling place for God's presence today?

5. How can we apply the principle of faithfulness in small things, as seen in the construction of the Tabernacle, to our personal and spiritual lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:9
This verse emphasizes the importance of following the exact pattern shown to Moses on the mountain, highlighting the divine origin of the Tabernacle's design.

Hebrews 8:5
This New Testament verse refers to the Tabernacle as a copy and shadow of what is in heaven, indicating the spiritual significance of its precise construction.

1 Corinthians 3:16
This verse connects the concept of the Tabernacle as God's dwelling place to believers being the temple of the Holy Spirit today.