Exodus 36:14

He then made curtains of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle--eleven curtains in all.

Study Bible

He also made curtains of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle; he made eleven curtains
He also made
This phrase indicates the continuation of the work that Bezalel and the skilled craftsmen were doing under the guidance of Moses. The Hebrew root for "made" is עָשָׂה ('asah), which means to do, fashion, or accomplish. This reflects the diligent and obedient execution of God's instructions. The making of these curtains was not merely a task but an act of worship and obedience, highlighting the importance of following divine instructions in our own lives.

curtains of goat hair
The use of goat hair is significant in the construction of the tabernacle. Goat hair was a common material in the ancient Near East for making tents due to its durability and availability. The Hebrew word for "goat hair" is עִזִּים ('izzim), which underscores the practical and humble nature of the materials God chose for His dwelling place. This choice reminds us that God often uses the ordinary to accomplish the extraordinary, and it calls us to offer whatever we have, no matter how humble, for His service.

for the tent over the tabernacle
The "tent" refers to the covering that protected the tabernacle, which was the dwelling place of God among His people. The Hebrew word for "tent" is אֹהֶל ('ohel), and "tabernacle" is מִשְׁכָּן (mishkan), meaning dwelling place. This dual structure symbolizes the layers of protection and sanctity surrounding God's presence. Historically, the tabernacle was central to Israel's worship and community life, signifying God's desire to dwell among His people. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's presence and protection in our lives.

he made eleven curtains
The number eleven is unique here, as most other elements of the tabernacle are in even numbers. The Hebrew word for "eleven" is אַחַת עֶשְׂרֵה (achat esreh). The odd number may symbolize the incompleteness of the earthly tabernacle compared to the heavenly one, pointing to the future fulfillment in Christ. The making of these curtains reflects the meticulous care and precision required in serving God, encouraging us to approach our service with the same dedication and attention to detail.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Bezalel and Oholiab
Skilled craftsmen appointed by God to oversee the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings.

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

4. The Israelites
The people of God, who contributed materials and labor for the construction of the Tabernacle.

5. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites wandered for 40 years and where the Tabernacle was constructed and used.

Teaching Points

God's Detailed Instructions
God cares about the details of our lives and provides specific guidance for His purposes.

The Role of Community
The construction of the Tabernacle required the collective effort and contributions of the entire community, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation in the body of Christ.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The Tabernacle serves as a symbol of God's presence and His desire to dwell among His people, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

Temporary vs. Eternal
Just as the Tabernacle was a temporary structure, our earthly lives are temporary. We should focus on eternal values and our heavenly home.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' obedience in constructing the Tabernacle according to God's instructions serves as a model for our own obedience to God's Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the Tabernacle reflect God's desire to dwell among His people, and how is this fulfilled in the New Testament?

2. In what ways can we, as a community of believers, contribute to building a "dwelling place" for God in our midst today?

3. What does the use of goat hair in the Tabernacle's construction teach us about the use of ordinary materials for God's extraordinary purposes?

4. How can we apply the principle of obedience to God's detailed instructions in our daily lives?

5. Reflect on the temporary nature of the Tabernacle. How does this perspective influence your priorities and focus on eternal matters?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 26
Provides the initial instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, including the use of goat hair curtains.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of the Tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ's work and the heavenly sanctuary.

John 1:14
Relates to the concept of God dwelling among His people, as Jesus is described as the Word who became flesh and "tabernacled" among us.

2 Corinthians 5:1-4
Compares our earthly bodies to tents, drawing a parallel to the temporary nature of the Tabernacle and the eternal dwelling we have in Christ.