Contributor: Martins Olubiyi
INTRODUCTION
In our previous study on Exodus 25, we learnt about the throne of mercy and underlying core aspect on designing the space for God’s presence. It reveals the incredible intentional character of God. Every action He takes serves a greater purpose. God knows our weaknesses, but His mercy and grace provide a way for us to be reconciled to Him. Just as He gave Moses detailed instructions for the Ark and the tabernacle, He gives us a clear path to salvation through Jesus Christ. Just as like the Mercy Seat covered the law, Jesus covers our sins with His sacrifice, allowing us to come boldly to God (Mat. 27:51; Heb. 4:16; 10: 19-20). Today, our study on Exodus 26 details God’s precise architectural blueprint for constructing the Tabernacle, serving as a tangible dwelling place for His Holy presence among the Israelites.
THE TABERNACLE CURTAINS (Verses 1-6)
The chapter begins with instructions for making the Tabernacle curtains. These curtains are to be crafted from “finely spun linen, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and with cherubim skilfully worked into them. The cherubim indicate angelic figures, symbolising divine presence and protection.
• Divine Instruction and Precision
God provides specific instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasising the importance of following His commands precisely. This reflects the Hebrew concept of “qodesh”, meaning holiness or set-apartness, as the Tabernacle is to be a holy place. “Moreover, you are to make the tabernacle with ten curtains of finely spun linen, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skilfully worked into them”. (Exodus 26:1)
• Symbolism of Materials and Colours
The use of specific materials and colours, such as blue, purple, and scarlet yarn symbolises royalty, divinity, and sacrifice. These elements point to the sacred nature of the Tabernacle and foreshadow Christ’s redemptive work. “The length of each curtain shall be twenty-eight cubits, and the width of each curtain four cubits; all the curtains shall have the same measurements” (Exodus 26:2).
• Hebrews 9:1-10 - Provide insight into the symbolism of the tabernacle and its furnishings, highlighting the limitations of the old covenant and the fulfilment in Christ.
• Unity and Cohesion
The curtains and frames are designed to be joined together, symbolising unity among God’s people and the cohesive nature of His covenant. The Hebrew word “echad” meaning one or united, is reflected in this verse. “Five of the curtains are to be joined together, and the other five curtains joined as well”. (Exodus 26:3)
THE CURTAINS OF GOATS’ HAIR (Verses 7-13).
Additional curtains made of goats’ hair are described, serving As a tent over the Tabernacle. These are to be longer than the inner curtains, providing extra coverage and protection. The use of goats’ hair, a durable material, emphasises the practical aspects of Tabernacle’s construction.
THE COVERING OF RAMS SKINS AND FINE LEATHER (Verse 14).
The outermost coverings are specified as ram skins dyed red and another layer of fine leather. These layers provide further protection from the elements, symbolizing the strength and resilience of God’s dwelling place.
THE FRAMEWORK OF THE TABERNACLE (Verses 15-30)
Detailed instructions are given for the wooden frames that support the Tabernacle made from acacia wood. These frames are to be overlaid with gold, signifying the preciousness and sanctity of the structure. The Hebrew term for acacia, (shittah), refers to a durable and resistant wood, suitable for a holy dwelling.
• God’s Presence Among His People
The Tabernacle serves as a dwelling place for God among the Israelites, highlighting His desire to be present with His people. The Hebrew word “miskhan” meaning dwelling place, underscores this verse “Set up the tabernacle according to the plan shown you on the mountain”. (Exodus 26:30).
THE VEIL AND THE ARK OF THE COVENANT (Verses 31-35)
A veil is to be made to separate the Holy Place from the Most High Place, where the Ark of the Covenant is to be placed. The veil, also made with cherubim, signifies the separation between God and humanity, a barrier that is later symbolically torn at the crucifixion of Christ (Matthew 27:51).
• Separation and Access
The veil and the arrangement of the Tabernacle signify separation between the holy and the most holy places, illustrating the concept of God’s holiness and the need for mediation. This foreshadows the role of Christ as the mediator. “Hang the veil from the clasps and place the ark of the Testimony behind the veil. The veil will separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place”. (Exodus 26:33).
Matthew 27:51- The tearing of the temple veil at Jesus’ death signifies the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, fulfilling the symbolism of the Tabernacle veil.
THE CURTAIN FOR THE ENTRANCE (Verses 36-37).
Finally, a curtain is described for the entrance of the Tabernacle. This curtain, like the others, is made with blue purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen, indicating the beauty and holiness of the entrance to God’s dwelling.
Each of these elements reflects the meticulous care and divine instruction given for the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasising its role as a sacred space for worship and the presence of God among His people.
John 1:14 - The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. This verse connects the Tabernacle’s purpose with Jesus’ incarnation, emphasising God’s desire to be with His people.
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Reverence in Worship - Just as the Israelites were ton approach the Tabernacle with reverence; we should approach God with awe and respect in our worship today.
Attention to Detail - We are to consider how we can incorporate attention to detail in our spiritual life, ensuring that every aspect aligns with God’s will and purpose
Holiness in Daily Life - If we reflect on the materials and design of the Tabernacle, then we have a call to pursue holiness in our own lives, setting ourselves apart for God’s purposes.
Understanding Separation - We are reminded to recognise the significance of the veil and how Jesus’ sacrifice has torn it, granting us direct access to God. (Hebrews 10: 19-20).
CONCLUSION
Exodus 26 is a testament to the significance of following detailed instructions. God provided Moses with specific guidelines for constructing the Tabernacle, emphasising precision and care This teaches us that God values order and intentionality in our lives. Moreover, the veil in the Tabernacle separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, symbolising the barrier between God and humanity due to sin. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who tore the veil, granting us direct access to God. It reminds us of the profound gift of salvation and reconciliation. This lesson ultimately underscores the call to holiness. The Tabernacle was a place of holiness, set apart for God’s presence. This calls us to live lives of holiness, set apart for His purposes. As believers, we are called to reflect God’s holiness in our actions and attitudes.
