Exodus 40:28

Then he put up the curtain at the entrance to the tabernacle.

Study Bible

Then he put up
This phrase indicates a sequence of actions, suggesting that the construction and arrangement of the tabernacle were methodical and divinely orchestrated. The Hebrew root for "put up" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to give, set, or place. This action signifies obedience to God's detailed instructions, reflecting the importance of following divine guidance in our lives. It reminds us that our actions should align with God's will, as Moses' did in erecting the tabernacle.

the curtain
The curtain, or "פָּרֹכֶת" (paroket) in Hebrew, served as a barrier between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place within the tabernacle. This curtain was not merely a physical object but a symbol of separation between God and humanity due to sin. It foreshadows the ultimate tearing of the curtain at Christ's crucifixion, which signifies the removal of the barrier between God and man, granting believers direct access to God through Jesus Christ.

at the entrance
The entrance, or "פֶּתַח" (petach) in Hebrew, represents the point of access to the sacred space of the tabernacle. It signifies the threshold between the common and the holy. In a broader spiritual context, it symbolizes the invitation to enter into God's presence. This entrance is a precursor to the New Testament understanding of Jesus as the "door" or "gate" through which believers enter into a relationship with God (John 10:9).

to the tabernacle
The tabernacle, or "מִשְׁכָּן" (mishkan) in Hebrew, means "dwelling place." It was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. The tabernacle's construction and its detailed instructions underscore God's desire to dwell among His people. It serves as a tangible reminder of God's presence and His covenant relationship with Israel. In the New Testament, the concept of God dwelling among His people is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14), and in the Holy Spirit dwelling within believers.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and to receive the Law. He is responsible for setting up the tabernacle as instructed by God.

2. Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence of God among the Israelites. It was meticulously constructed according to God's specifications given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

3. Curtain (Veil)
A significant element in the tabernacle, symbolizing the separation between the holy place and the most holy place, where God's presence dwelt. It represents the barrier between God and man due to sin.

4. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were journeying to the Promised Land. They were to worship God according to the laws and structures He provided.

5. Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites wandered for 40 years. It is a place of testing, learning, and preparation for entering the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Separation
The curtain represents the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. Reflect on the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin.

Christ as the Fulfillment
Jesus' death tore the veil, granting believers direct access to God. Embrace the privilege of approaching God with confidence through Christ.

The Role of Obedience
Moses' careful adherence to God's instructions for the tabernacle teaches the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

God's Presence Among His People
The tabernacle signifies God's desire to dwell among His people. Recognize and cherish God's presence in your life today.

Preparation for Worship
Just as the tabernacle was prepared for worship, prepare your heart and life to be a dwelling place for God's presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the curtain in the tabernacle symbolize the separation between God and humanity, and how is this relevant to our understanding of sin and holiness today?

2. In what ways does the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion impact our relationship with God, and how can we live in light of this truth?

3. How can Moses' obedience in setting up the tabernacle inspire us to follow God's instructions in our own lives?

4. What does the presence of God in the tabernacle teach us about His desire to be with His people, and how can we cultivate an awareness of His presence daily?

5. How can we prepare our hearts and lives to be a dwelling place for God's presence, similar to the preparation of the tabernacle for worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of the tabernacle and its elements, including the curtain, as a foreshadowing of Christ's work and the new covenant.

Matthew 27:51
Describes the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity through Christ's sacrifice.

Leviticus 16
Details the Day of Atonement, when the high priest would enter the most holy place, highlighting the significance of the curtain as a barrier to God's presence.