The concept of "The Two Courtyards" is primarily associated with the architectural and spiritual design of the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem, as described in the Old Testament. These courtyards played a significant role in the worship practices and religious life of the Israelites.

The Tabernacle Courtyards

The Tabernacle, also known as the Tent of Meeting, was the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness. According to the Book of Exodus, the Tabernacle had an outer courtyard that was enclosed by curtains made of fine twisted linen. This courtyard was approximately 100 cubits long and 50 cubits wide (Exodus 27:9-18). The entrance to the courtyard was on the east side, symbolizing the direction of the rising sun and new beginnings.

The outer courtyard of the Tabernacle contained the bronze altar for burnt offerings and the bronze basin for ceremonial washing (Exodus 30:18-21). These elements were essential for the sacrificial system and the purification rituals that were central to the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

The Temple Courtyards

Solomon's Temple, also known as the First Temple, expanded upon the design of the Tabernacle and included multiple courtyards. The most significant were the Inner Court and the Outer Court. The Inner Court, also referred to as the Court of the Priests, was where the altar of burnt offering, the bronze sea, and other sacred furnishings were located (1 Kings 6:36; 2 Chronicles 4:9). Only the priests and Levites were permitted to enter this area, as they performed the sacrifices and maintained the Temple services.

The Outer Court, or the Great Court, was accessible to the general Israelite population. It served as a gathering place for worshippers who came to offer sacrifices and participate in religious festivals. The Outer Court symbolized the inclusion of the entire community in the worship of Yahweh, while the Inner Court represented the holiness and separation required for those who ministered before the Lord.

The Second Temple Period

During the Second Temple period, which began with the rebuilding of the Temple under Zerubbabel and continued through the expansions by Herod the Great, the courtyards became even more defined. Herod's Temple included the Court of the Gentiles, the Court of Women, the Court of Israel, and the Court of the Priests. Each of these areas had specific regulations regarding who could enter and what activities could take place.

The Court of the Gentiles was the outermost courtyard and was open to all people, including non-Jews. It was intended to be a place of prayer for all nations, as prophesied in Isaiah 56:7. However, it also became a place of commerce, which Jesus famously cleansed, declaring, "My house will be called a house of prayer, but you are making it a den of robbers" (Matthew 21:13).

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

The two courtyards, both in the Tabernacle and the Temple, symbolize the progression from the common to the holy, reflecting the journey of the believer from the world into the presence of God. The outer courtyards represent the initial approach to God, where purification and sacrifice are necessary. The inner courtyards signify a deeper communion with God, reserved for those who are consecrated and set apart for His service.

The design of the courtyards underscores the holiness of God and the need for reverence and preparation in approaching Him. It also highlights the inclusivity of God's covenant, inviting all people to come and worship, while maintaining the sanctity and order of His divine presence.