Exodus 26: A Detailed Explanation

 

Exodus 26: A Detailed Explanation

Introduction

Exodus 26 is a crucial chapter in the Old Testament, as it provides detailed instructions for constructing the Tabernacle, the sacred tent that would serve as the dwelling place of God's presence among the Israelites. The chapter continues the divine blueprint revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai, emphasizing precision, holiness, and symbolism in its design. Every aspect of the Tabernacle has theological significance, pointing forward to deeper spiritual truths, including Christ and the New Testament church.

1. The Curtains of the Tabernacle (Verses 1-6)

The chapter begins with instructions regarding the curtains that form the main structure of the Tabernacle.

• Material and Design: The curtains are to be made of fine linen embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, featuring cherubim woven into them. These colors are significant:

  • Blue represents heaven and divinity.

  • Purple symbolizes royalty and kingship.

  • Scarlet signifies sacrifice and atonement.

• Dimensions: The curtains are to be 28 cubits long and 4 cubits wide, and there are ten of them. They are to be joined together in two sets of five, linked with blue loops and gold clasps.

• Symbolism: These curtains form the innermost covering, signifying the glory and holiness of God. The cherubim on them recall the cherubim guarding Eden (Genesis 3:24), emphasizing restricted access to God’s holy presence.

2. The Coverings of the Tabernacle (Verses 7-14)

Several layers of coverings are prescribed:

• Goats' hair curtains (Verses 7-13): These are 30 cubits long and form a protective covering over the fine linen curtains. They represent provision and sacrifice, as goats were often used in sin offerings.

• Ram skins dyed red (Verse 14): This additional layer signifies atonement and protection, as rams were also used in sacrificial offerings.

• A covering of badger (or sea cow) skins (Verse 14): This outermost layer was likely for waterproofing and durability. It also symbolizes Christ’s humility (Isaiah 53:2 - “He had no beauty that we should desire Him”).

3. The Framework of the Tabernacle (Verses 15-30)

The wooden framework serves as the structural skeleton of the Tabernacle.

• Materials: The boards are made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold. Acacia wood is durable and resistant to decay, symbolizing Christ’s incorruptible nature.

• Dimensions: Each board is 10 cubits high and 1.5 cubits wide.

• Arrangement: The boards are fitted with silver sockets at the base, allowing them to stand upright. Silver often represents redemption (Numbers 3:47), highlighting how God’s dwelling is built on redemption.

• Bars and rings: The boards are connected with crossbars, ensuring stability and unity—symbolic of how the church is held together in Christ (Ephesians 2:21-22).

4. The Veil and the Holy Places (Verses 31-35)

One of the most significant parts of the Tabernacle was the veil.

• Material and Design: The veil is made of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn with cherubim embroidered into it, just like the inner curtains.

• Function: This veil separates the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies), restricting access to God’s presence.

• Symbolism: The veil represents the barrier between sinful humanity and God’s holiness. When Jesus died on the cross, the veil in the temple was torn from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51), signifying that Christ had opened the way to God for all believers (Hebrews 10:19-20).

5. The Entrance Curtain (Verses 36-37)

• Design: Similar to the veil, the entrance curtain serves as the doorway to the Tabernacle. It is upheld by five pillars of acacia wood overlaid with gold, standing in bronze bases.

• Symbolism: Christ said, “I am the door” (John 10:9), indicating that He is the only way to enter into fellowship with God.

Spiritual and Theological Themes in Exodus 26

Exodus 26 is not just about construction details; it conveys profound theological truths:

1. God’s Holiness and Separation: The veils and curtains illustrate the separation between a holy God and sinful people. Only through divine provision (sacrifice, redemption) can humanity approach Him.

2. Christ as the Fulfillment: Every material—wood, gold, silver, linen, and colors—points to aspects of Jesus’ person and work.

3. The Church as God’s Dwelling: The Tabernacle foreshadows the church, which is now the dwelling place of God through the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 2:22).

Conclusion

Exodus 26 provides precise instructions for constructing the Tabernacle, emphasizing God’s holiness, redemption, and desire to dwell among His people. Every detail points to Christ, who fulfills the symbolism of the Tabernacle by making God’s presence accessible to all believers. Through His sacrifice, the barriers represented by the veil are removed, allowing direct access to God for those who trust in Him.

Thus, this chapter is not just about ancient craftsmanship but about God’s redemptive plan, woven into the very fabric of His instructions to Israel.