“And he made a veil of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: with cherubims made he it of cunning work.”– Exodus 36:36
Exodus 36:36 Meaning
This verse holds significant meaning within the context of the construction of the Tabernacle, the sacred dwelling place for God among His people. Here, we find a detailed account of the craftsmanship involved in the making of the temple’s veil. The veil was not just a simple piece of fabric; it served a crucial purpose in the Jewish faith. It acted as a barrier between the Holy Place and the Holy of Holies, the latter being where the very presence of God dwelled.
In a sense, the veil symbolizes separation. It depicts the distance between God and humanity caused by sin. The fact that it was made from blue, purple, scarlet cloth, and fine twined linen denotes its significance. Each of these colors holds symbolic meaning. Blue often represents the divine; purple symbolizes royalty; scarlet is associated with sacrifice; and linen signifies purity. Together, they create a rich tapestry that reflects not only the skill of those who made it but also the deep spiritual truths it embodies.
Exodus 36:36 Commentary and Explanation
This verse takes us into a moment of sacred artistry. The choice of materials reflects a divine inspiration. Skilled artisans, who were gifted by God for this purpose, crafted the veil. Every detail—from the colors chosen to the intricate designs of the cherubims—was intentional and meaningful.
When we think of the cherubim, images may come to mind of these angelic beings with wings, symbolizing protection and the presence of God. Their depiction in the veil suggests that God’s holiness is guarded and that access to Him is not casual or without respect. The work involved in creating this veil also reminds us that approaching God requires reverence and ceremony. We see a foreshadowing of the access that would later be provided through Jesus Christ, who would ultimately tear down the barrier that sin had created.
The intricate craftsmanship signifies that worship is not just a matter of the heart but involves our efforts, talents, and skills. We are called to give our best to God, just as the artisans did in assembling the veil. Their commitment to their craft shows us the excellence that should be present in our service and worship.
The veil serves as a reminder of God’s desire for a relationship with humanity. While the veil separated God from sinful people, it also indicated that a way to intimacy with the Creator was being established through divine design. It makes us think about the future promise that Jesus fulfilled, where He became the ultimate sacrifice, granting us direct access to God. When the veil of the temple was torn at Christ’s death, it signified a profound shift and a new covenant.
Context of Exodus 36:36
Understanding the context in which this verse appears is essential to grasp its full significance. Exodus 36 is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites in the wilderness after their liberation from Egypt. God had given Moses the detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, a place meant for worship and for God to dwell amongst His people.
Prior to the construction of the veil, God had instructed Moses on how everything should be made, including the Ark of the Covenant, the altars, and other furnishings. The artisans Bezalel and Oholiab were pivotal in carrying out God’s commandments. The Israelites were to follow God’s instructions precisely, as they were preparing their hearts for God’s dwelling and presence among them.
In this context, we also see the theme of obedience interwoven throughout the narrative. The Israelites had a choice: they could either follow God’s guidelines for a holy place or do what seemed right in their own eyes. The act of creating the veil according to God’s specification showcased their submission to His sovereignty. It shows us that our worship must align with God’s standards, not our own preferences.
The significance of this passage is further heightened as we reflect on the historical separation that sin has created between God and humanity. The desire for atonement is ever-present in Israel’s journey, culminating in the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who provides a perfect solution to the barrier sin creates. It’s this longing, coupled with the hope of reunion, that drives the narrative forward.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Exodus 36:36
When we examine Exodus 36:36 more closely, several key aspects stand out. The material of the veil is deeply symbolic: blue, representing the sky and heaven; purple, denoting royalty and authority; and scarlet, depicting sacrifice and redemption. All three colors together create a visual tapestry that speaks about the nature and character of God.
The workmanship of the veil is also noteworthy. The phrase “cunning work” indicates a skillful retelling of artistry that was not just thrown together. This suggests that the artisans devoted time, effort, and creativity to produce something extraordinarily beautiful and holy. This intricate work elevates our understanding of what it means to offer our skills and passions to God, reminding us that every act of service in God’s Kingdom deserves our utmost commitment.
The presence of the cherubims signifies protection, reverence, and closeness to God. Cherubims, often associated with guarding significant places in scripture, emphasize that drawing close to God is both precious and requires honor. While the veil mediated access, it also showed that humans approach God with awe. This tender balance between intimacy and reverence illustrates the nature of our relationship with the Divine.
Lessons From Exodus 36:36
As we reflect on Exodus 36:36, there are meaningful lessons to apply to our lives today. One of the strongest messages is about the significance of holiness. God’s instructions were not arbitrary, and neither should our approach to worship be casual. The details matter, and it reminds us that how we come before God should be with intention and respect.
Another lesson is about stewardship of our talents and gifts. The artisans showcased their skills in creating the veil, and we, too, have been blessed with unique abilities by God. Using our gifts to serve Him reflects a surrendered heart. It may look different for each individual; it could mean singing, teaching, crafting, or simply serving others. Regardless, we can glorify God through that service and dedication.
Additionally, this passage teaches the importance of obedience. The Israelites adhered to God’s commands in creating the veil, which laid the groundwork for future generations. As believers, when we choose to follow God’s guidance, we pave the way for His work to flourish in and through us. Our acts of obedience can lead to greater blessings and opportunities to know Him more closely.
Lastly, we must not forget the promise that access to God is available through Jesus Christ. The veil that once symbolized separation now points toward the glorious truth of our redeemed relationship with the Father. We can come boldly before the throne of grace, knowing that Christ has bridged the gap.
Final Thoughts
Exodus 36:36 offers profound insights into who God is and how we are to relate to Him. The veil appeals to our understanding of holiness, dedication to craftsmanship, and the importance of reverence in worship. As we unpack this scripture, we see a foreshadowing of what Jesus would accomplish on our behalf. God’s desire for a relationship with us shines through this verse.
In our own daily lives, we can apply the lessons learned from the veil. Let us strive to offer our best to God, honor His presence, and acknowledge the sacrifice that has been made for our salvation. Just as the artisans poured themselves into their work, we too can pour out our lives in service to God and others. In doing so, we fulfill our purpose while drawing closer to the one who loves us fiercely.
If you would like to explore more topics regarding the Lord’s teachings, consider reading about the veil of the temple or how the high priest’s garments were designed. The beauty of scripture continues to unfold, much like the intricate designs woven into the fabric of faith.