Exodus 26:3

Five of the curtains are to be joined together, and the other five joined as well.

Study Bible

Five of the curtains
The number five in biblical numerology often symbolizes God's grace, goodness, and favor. In the context of the tabernacle, the curtains represent a covering or protection, signifying God's grace covering His people. The Hebrew word for "curtain" is "yeri'ah," which refers to a large piece of fabric. These curtains were part of the tabernacle's structure, which was a sacred space where God would dwell among His people. The use of five curtains joined together could symbolize the completeness and sufficiency of God's grace in providing a dwelling place for His presence.

are to be joined together
The act of joining the curtains together signifies unity and cohesion. The Hebrew word used here is "chabar," which means to bind or ally. This joining is not just a physical connection but also a spiritual one, representing the unity of God's people under His covenant. The tabernacle itself was a place where the Israelites could come together to worship and experience God's presence. This unity is a reflection of the unity that believers are called to have in Christ, as the body of Christ is meant to be joined together in love and purpose.

and the other five curtains joined as well
This phrase emphasizes the symmetry and balance in the construction of the tabernacle. The repetition of the joining process for the other set of five curtains highlights the importance of order and precision in God's instructions. It reflects the meticulous care and attention to detail that God requires in His dwelling place. Historically, the tabernacle was a portable sanctuary, and its construction had to be precise to ensure it could be assembled and disassembled as the Israelites traveled. Spiritually, this precision can inspire believers to approach their relationship with God with the same care and dedication, ensuring that their lives are aligned with His will and purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Israelites
The people of God, who were to construct the Tabernacle as a place for God's presence to dwell among them.

3. The Tabernacle
A portable sanctuary that served as the dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

4. Curtains
The fabric components of the Tabernacle, specifically mentioned in this verse as being joined together to form the structure.

5. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave Moses the instructions for the Tabernacle and the Law.

Teaching Points

Unity in Purpose
Just as the curtains were joined together to form a unified structure, believers are called to unity in the body of Christ. This unity is essential for the church to function effectively as the dwelling place of God.

Attention to Detail
The specific instructions for the Tabernacle highlight the importance of following God's commands with precision. In our lives, we should strive to obey God's Word carefully and faithfully.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Today, we are reminded that God dwells within us through the Holy Spirit, and we should live in a way that honors His presence.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The Tabernacle and its components symbolize deeper spiritual truths, such as the holiness of God and the need for atonement. Studying these symbols can deepen our understanding of God's plan of salvation.

Preparation for Worship
The construction of the Tabernacle required preparation and dedication. Similarly, we should prepare our hearts and lives for worship, ensuring that we are ready to meet with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the joining of the curtains in Exodus 26:3 reflect the importance of unity within the church today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are following God's instructions with the same attention to detail as the Israelites did with the Tabernacle?

3. How does understanding the symbolism of the Tabernacle enhance our appreciation of Christ's work as described in Hebrews 9?

4. What practical steps can we take to prepare our hearts for worship, acknowledging God's presence in our lives?

5. How does the concept of believers being the temple of God, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 3:16, influence the way we live our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25-31
These chapters provide the detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, including the materials and dimensions.

Hebrews 9
This chapter in the New Testament discusses the significance of the Tabernacle and its furnishings as a foreshadowing of Christ's work.

1 Corinthians 3:16
This verse speaks of believers as the temple of God, drawing a parallel to the Tabernacle as a dwelling place for God's presence.