The Entrance Curtain, also known as the "screen" or "veil," holds significant importance in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Tabernacle and the Temple. It served as a physical and symbolic barrier, delineating sacred spaces and representing the holiness of God.

Biblical Description and Function

In the construction of the Tabernacle, as described in the Book of Exodus, the Entrance Curtain was a key component. Exodus 26:36-37 states, "For the entrance to the tent, make a curtain of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, the work of an embroiderer. Make five posts of acacia wood for the curtain, overlay them with gold hooks, and cast five bronze bases for them." This curtain was placed at the entrance of the Tabernacle, separating the outer court from the Holy Place.

The materials and colors used in the Entrance Curtain were significant. The blue, purple, and scarlet yarns, along with the finely spun linen, were indicative of royalty, divinity, and purity. The craftsmanship of an embroiderer highlighted the importance and sacredness of the curtain, as it was not merely functional but also a work of art that reflected the glory of God.

Symbolism and Theological Significance

The Entrance Curtain symbolized the separation between the holy and the common, a recurring theme in the Old Testament. It served as a reminder of the holiness of God and the need for purity and reverence when approaching Him. The curtain was a barrier that only the priests could pass through, emphasizing the mediatory role of the priesthood in the Old Covenant.

In the broader theological context, the Entrance Curtain foreshadowed the coming of Christ, who would ultimately fulfill and transcend the Old Covenant's sacrificial system. The tearing of the Temple veil at the moment of Jesus' death, as recorded in Matthew 27:51 , "At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom," signified the removal of the barrier between God and humanity. This event marked the inauguration of the New Covenant, where believers have direct access to God through the atoning work of Jesus Christ.

Historical and Cultural Context

The design and function of the Entrance Curtain were consistent with ancient Near Eastern practices, where sacred spaces were often demarcated by curtains or veils. The use of acacia wood and precious metals for the posts and hooks reflects the wealth and resources dedicated to the worship of Yahweh, underscoring the importance of the Tabernacle as the dwelling place of God among His people.

Conclusion

The Entrance Curtain of the Tabernacle and later the Temple was a vital element in the worship and religious life of Israel. It served as a constant reminder of God's holiness and the need for a mediator between God and man, a role ultimately fulfilled by Jesus Christ. Through its rich symbolism and theological implications, the Entrance Curtain points to the greater reality of God's redemptive plan for humanity.