Exodus 26:37

Make five posts of acacia wood for the curtain, overlay them with gold hooks, and cast five bronze bases for them.

Study Bible

entrance to the tent
The entrance to the tent, or the Tabernacle, served as the primary point of access to the sacred space where God's presence dwelled among the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "tent" (אֹהֶל, ohel) signifies a temporary dwelling, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle of the Israelites during their wilderness journey. This entrance was not merely a physical gateway but symbolized the threshold between the secular and the divine, a place of transition into holiness.

a curtain of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn
The curtain's colors—blue, purple, and scarlet—are rich with symbolic meaning. Blue (תְּכֵלֶת, tekhelet) often represents divinity and the heavens, reminding the Israelites of God's sovereignty. Purple (אַרְגָּמָן, argaman) is a color of royalty and wealth, signifying the majesty of God. Scarlet (שָׁנִי, shani) symbolizes sacrifice and redemption, foreshadowing the blood of Christ. The use of these colors in the Tabernacle's construction underscores the sacredness and divine purpose of the space.

finely spun linen
The finely spun linen (שֵׁשׁ, shesh) indicates purity and righteousness. Linen was a luxurious fabric, often associated with priestly garments, and its use here emphasizes the holiness required to approach God. The meticulous craftsmanship involved in spinning the linen reflects the care and reverence due to the worship of the Almighty.

the work of a skilled craftsman
The phrase highlights the importance of skill and dedication in the service of God. The Hebrew term for "skilled craftsman" (חָכָם לֵב, chakam lev) literally means "wise-hearted," suggesting that the artisans were not only technically proficient but also spiritually attuned to their work. This underscores the biblical principle that all talents and skills are gifts from God, to be used for His glory.

five posts of acacia wood
Acacia wood (שִׁטָּה, shittah) is known for its durability and resistance to decay, symbolizing the enduring nature of God's covenant with His people. The number five often represents grace in biblical numerology, suggesting that the structure of the Tabernacle was founded upon God's grace and provision.

overlay them with gold
Gold (זָהָב, zahav) is a symbol of purity, value, and divinity. The overlaying of the acacia wood with gold signifies the divine nature covering the human, a foreshadowing of the incarnation of Christ, where the divine took on human form. It also reflects the glory and holiness of God, who dwells within the Tabernacle.

with gold hooks
The gold hooks served a practical purpose in holding the curtain, but they also symbolize the connection between the divine and the earthly. Gold, as a precious metal, represents the value and importance of maintaining a connection with God, who is the source of all life and holiness.

cast five bronze bases for them
Bronze (נְחֹשֶׁת, nechoshet) is often associated with judgment and strength in the Bible. The bronze bases provided stability and support for the posts, symbolizing the firm foundation of God's justice and righteousness. The use of bronze here reminds the Israelites of the need for a strong moral and spiritual foundation in their relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God dwelled among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. Entrance Curtain
A specially designed curtain for the entrance of the Tabernacle, made with specific colors and materials.

4. Acacia Wood
A durable wood used in the construction of the Tabernacle's posts, symbolizing strength and endurance.

5. Embroiderer
The skilled artisan responsible for crafting the intricate designs on the curtain, highlighting the importance of beauty and craftsmanship in worship.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Colors
The blue, purple, and scarlet yarns symbolize royalty, divinity, and sacrifice. Reflect on how these colors point to the nature and work of Christ.

Craftsmanship in Worship
The detailed work of the embroiderer shows that God values beauty and skill in worship. Consider how we can offer our best talents in service to God.

Holiness and Access
The curtain represents a barrier to the Holy of Holies, reminding us of the separation between God and man due to sin, and how Christ's sacrifice has torn that barrier.

Materials and Meaning
The use of acacia wood and gold signifies durability and purity. Reflect on how our faith should be both enduring and pure.

God's Detailed Instructions
The specific instructions for the Tabernacle remind us that God cares about the details of our lives and worship. Consider how we can be attentive to God's guidance in our daily walk.

Bible Study Questions

1. What do the colors of the curtain (blue, purple, and scarlet) symbolize, and how do they relate to the character and work of Jesus Christ?

2. How does the role of the embroiderer in crafting the curtain inspire us to use our skills and talents for God's glory today?

3. In what ways does the curtain at the entrance of the Tabernacle foreshadow the work of Christ in providing access to God?

4. How can the materials used in the Tabernacle's construction (acacia wood and gold) inform our understanding of the qualities God desires in our faith?

5. Reflect on the detailed instructions given for the Tabernacle. How can we apply the principle of attentiveness to God's instructions in our personal and communal worship practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:8-9
These verses provide the initial command from God to Moses to build the Tabernacle, emphasizing the divine origin of the design.

Hebrews 9:1-10
This passage in the New Testament reflects on the earthly sanctuary and its regulations, drawing a parallel to the heavenly sanctuary.

John 1:14
The concept of God dwelling among His people is fulfilled in the New Testament with the Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us, echoing the purpose of the Tabernacle.

Revelation 21:3
The ultimate fulfillment of God's dwelling with humanity is seen in the new heaven and new earth, where God will dwell with His people eternally.