Exodus 36:8

All the skilled craftsmen among the workmen made the ten curtains for the tabernacle. They were made of finely spun linen, as well as blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully worked into them.

Study Bible

All the skilled craftsmen
This phrase highlights the importance of God-given talents and skills in the service of His work. The Hebrew word for "skilled craftsmen" is "ḥăḵām," which implies wisdom and expertise. In the context of the tabernacle's construction, these craftsmen were divinely inspired, as seen in Exodus 31:3, where God fills Bezalel with His Spirit, granting him wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. This underscores the belief that all abilities are gifts from God, meant to be used for His glory and the edification of His people.

among the workers
The phrase emphasizes the community aspect of the work. The Hebrew term "ʿōśeh" refers to those actively engaged in the task. This collective effort reflects the body of Christ, where each member has a role, as described in 1 Corinthians 12. The workers' unity and cooperation serve as a model for the church, illustrating how diverse gifts contribute to a common purpose.

made the tabernacle
The construction of the tabernacle was a monumental task, symbolizing God's dwelling among His people. The Hebrew word "miškān" means "dwelling place," signifying God's desire to be present with Israel. This foreshadows the New Testament revelation of God dwelling among us through Jesus Christ (John 1:14) and later through the Holy Spirit within believers (1 Corinthians 3:16).

with ten curtains
The number ten often represents completeness in the Bible. The ten curtains of the tabernacle signify the fullness of God's plan and His perfect provision for worship. Each curtain was intricately designed, reflecting the beauty and holiness of God's presence. This meticulous attention to detail reminds believers of the reverence and awe due to God in worship.

finely spun linen
The use of "finely spun linen" indicates purity and righteousness. Linen, in biblical times, was a symbol of purity and was often used in priestly garments (Exodus 28:39-42). This material's inclusion in the tabernacle's construction points to the holiness required to approach God, fulfilled ultimately in Christ, who clothes believers in His righteousness (Isaiah 61:10).

blue, purple, and scarlet yarn
These colors hold significant meaning. Blue often represents heaven or divinity, purple signifies royalty, and scarlet symbolizes sacrifice or atonement. Together, they portray the multifaceted nature of God and His covenant with Israel. The use of these colors in the tabernacle prefigures the work of Christ, who is divine, the King of Kings, and the ultimate sacrifice for sin.

with cherubim
Cherubim are angelic beings associated with the presence of God. Their depiction on the curtains signifies the heavenly nature of the tabernacle and the protection of God's holiness. In Genesis 3:24, cherubim guard the way to the Tree of Life, and in the tabernacle, they remind the Israelites of God's majesty and the sacredness of His dwelling place.

woven into them by a skilled craftsman
This phrase reiterates the theme of God-given skill and artistry. The Hebrew word "ḥāšab" implies thoughtful, intentional design. The craftsmanship involved in creating the tabernacle reflects the creativity of God Himself, who is the ultimate designer. It serves as an inspiration for believers to use their talents with excellence and intentionality in service to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Skilled Craftsmen
These were the artisans endowed with wisdom and skill by God to construct the tabernacle and its furnishings. Their work was crucial in creating a dwelling place for God's presence among the Israelites.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable sanctuary that served as the dwelling place of God among His people during their journey through the wilderness. It was a central place of worship and sacrifice.

3. Curtains
The ten curtains mentioned were part of the tabernacle's structure, made with specific materials and designs as instructed by God. They symbolized the separation between the holy and the common.

4. Finely Spun Linen, Blue, Purple, and Scarlet Yarn
These materials were chosen for their quality and significance. Linen represented purity, while the colors had royal and priestly connotations.

5. Cherubim
Angelic beings depicted in the design of the curtains, symbolizing the presence and protection of God.

Teaching Points

God's Provision of Skills
God equips His people with the necessary skills and wisdom to accomplish His purposes. We should seek to use our talents for His glory.

The Importance of Obedience
The craftsmen followed God's detailed instructions, demonstrating the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

Symbolism in Worship
The materials and designs used in the tabernacle were rich with symbolism, reminding us that our worship should reflect the holiness and majesty of God.

God's Presence Among His People
The tabernacle was a tangible sign of God's desire to dwell among His people, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

The Role of Community in Worship
The construction of the tabernacle was a communal effort, illustrating the importance of working together in the body of Christ to build His kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the skilled craftsmen in Exodus 36:8 inspire you to use your talents for God's purposes today?

2. In what ways does the tabernacle serve as a foreshadowing of Christ and the New Covenant?

3. How can the detailed obedience of the craftsmen in constructing the tabernacle inform our approach to following God's instructions in our lives?

4. What significance do the materials and colors used in the tabernacle hold for our understanding of worship and holiness?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, work together to create spaces (physical or spiritual) where God's presence is honored and experienced?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 31:1-11
This passage describes how God specifically chose and filled Bezalel and Oholiab with His Spirit to lead the construction of the tabernacle, highlighting the divine origin of their skills.

Hebrews 9:1-5
The author of Hebrews describes the earthly sanctuary and its furnishings, drawing a parallel to the heavenly sanctuary and emphasizing the tabernacle's role as a shadow of things to come.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Paul speaks of believers as the temple of God, drawing a connection between the physical tabernacle and the spiritual dwelling of God within His people today.