“And for the rest of the tabernacle, which is to be the tent of meeting, there are to be curtain of fine linen, and for the curtains, others of goats’ hair, and for the veil, blue and purple and scarlet, with cherubim skillfully worked.” – Exodus 36:27
Exodus 36:27 Meaning
Exodus 36:27 presents the specific instructions for the materials and elements that were to be used in the construction of the tabernacle, one of the most significant places in the ancient Israelite religion. The verse emphasizes the importance of fine linen and goats’ hair, which underscores the beauty and the sacredness of the space intended for worship.
The tabernacle was a portable sanctuary for the Israelites as they traveled through the wilderness. It served as a place of worship where the people could commune with God. Each material mentioned has its significance; for example, fine linen symbolizes purity and holiness, while goat’s hair might represent humility or sacrifice. The intricate designs worked into elements such as the veil indicate a divine artistry and attention to detail meant to reflect the glory of God.
Exodus 36:27 Commentary and Explanation
In Exodus 36:27, we see that God provided Moses with precise instructions about the materials for the tabernacle’s construction. This verse is nestled within a larger narrative focusing on God’s desire to dwell among His people. The instructions highlight not only the physical structure of the tabernacle but also the spiritual heart behind it. God wanted a place where His people could experience His presence, and the materials used played a symbolic role in that relationship.
The use of fine linen reflects God’s holiness. Throughout scripture, linen is associated with purity. In Revelation 19:8, it is mentioned that the fine linen of the saints represents righteous acts—a reminder that preparation for meeting God is important. This is echoed in Exodus 28:39, where God commands the priests to wear linen garments, symbolizing their holy duty and service to Him.
On the other hand, the goats’ hair signifies the sacrificial aspect of worship. Goats were often offered as sacrifices in the ancient Israelite worship system due to their role as sin offerings. This juxtaposition of materials shows a deep understanding of the relationship between sacrifice and holiness, where we approach God through the covering of our sins.
The beauty and complexity of the design also demonstrate that God is not a God of chaos. He values order, beauty, and intentionality, as shown in the careful crafting of the tabernacle. Each detail, including the intricate work with cherubim, symbolizes the divine and heavenly nature of God and serves as a reflection of His kingdom. This point resonates with us as we see the importance of honoring God with our best in all aspects of our lives.
Context of Exodus 36:27
This verse occurs in the book of Exodus, a historical account of the Israelites’ liberation from Egypt and their journey towards the Promised Land. In this context, we see a turning point where God establishes a covenant with His people and provides laws for how they should live. The instructions for constructing the tabernacle come after the Israelites have been shown miraculous signs—the parting of the Red Sea, the provision of manna, and the giving of the Ten Commandments.
After receiving the law, Moses goes up to Mount Sinai to commune with God. This connection to God is central to the establishment of the tabernacle, as it encapsulates God’s desire to dwell among His people. Exodus 25:8 states, “And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst.” The tabernacle represents not just a physical building but a spiritual narrative of God’s presence within the community. It signifies that God desires closeness with His people, emphasizing the relationship over mere rituals.
The subsequent chapters detail the Israelites’ contributions toward the tabernacle’s construction. Leaders like Bezalel and Oholiab were designated as master craftsmen, showcasing a community effort toward a shared goal of worship. This involvement in the creation of the holy space invited the entire community to partake in worship and establish a sense of identity as God’s chosen people.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Exodus 36:27
Each component of Exodus 36:27 helps us get a clearer picture of what God intended for His dwelling place. We can break it down into the following key parts: the curtain of fine linen, the goats’ hair, and the veil woven with cherubim.
The “curtain of fine linen” signifies the barrier between humanity and the holiness of God. It serves as a reminder that while God desires to be with us, He is also wholly other. The fine linen represents the purity that God demands when approaching Him, which aligns with His holy nature. It also emphasizes that we, too, are called to pursue purity in our lives and worship.
The “curtains of goats’ hair” signify the sacrificial aspect of the relationship between God and humans. They’re a reminder of the need for atonement and the willingness to engage in sacrifices as means of reconciliation with God. These curtains are seen as a humble covering, emphasizing the fragility of life. In our context today, it reinforces the understanding that we must be intentional and sincere in our worship.
The “veil, blue and purple and scarlet” is rich in symbolism. The intricacy of these colors speaks of royalty and dignity. The mention of cherubim is deeply significant, as it connects to God’s heavenly court and serves as a reminder of His majesty. This beautiful craftsmanship demonstrates worship as not only practical but also profoundly artistic, created to honor and reflect the glory of God.
Lessons From Exodus 36:27
Exodus 36:27 brings many lessons that can inspire us today. First, it teaches us the importance of intentionality in our worship. Just as the Israelites were called to bring forth their best for the tabernacle, we, too, should strive to offer our best in our service to God and others. This act of offering can extend to our time, talents, and treasures. It’s a reminder that what we bring before God should reflect our commitment to Him.
Secondly, the verse highlights the significance of communal worship. The process of constructing the tabernacle involved the entire community working together toward a common goal. When we engage in worship activities, whether in our personal lives or within our church communities, we are reminded that we are part of something larger than ourselves, contributing to a shared endeavor of glorifying God.
The contrast between the fine linen and the goats’ hair also teaches us about balance; while we strive for purity and holiness, we should also remember our humanity. There is an interplay between striving for excellence in our worship and recognizing that we are imperfect beings in need of grace. God meets us in our struggles and imperfections while still calling us to be our best selves.
Finally, the intricate design of the tabernacle should inspire us to create beauty in our lives and environments as an act of worship. Whether through the arts, relationships, or our work, we are invited to bring creativity that reflects God’s goodness and grandeur.
Final Thoughts
Exodus 36:27 showcases a profound element of God’s character: His desire for connection and relationship with us. As we reflect on this verse, we are invited to understand our role within the story of faith and community. The tabernacle serves as a powerful metaphor for our spiritual journeys. Just as it was a space for divine encounters, our lives can be places where God’s presence is sought and experienced.
We can strive to approach our relationship with God with reverence, knowing He desires us to draw near. By engaging our gifts, contributing to our communities, and seeking holiness, we fulfill our calling as God’s chosen people. This calling comes with the understanding that, like the intricately woven veil, our lives can reflect God’s beauty and glory.
If you are interested in exploring further aspects of Exodus, we encourage you to read more about the specifics of the construction in Exodus chapters 36:24, 36:23, and the significance behind each material in 36:22. Engaging with scripture opens our hearts to the richness of God’s word and His ongoing story in our lives.