“And blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats’ hair.”
Context:Exodus 25 marks the beginning of God’s instructions to Moses regarding the construction of the tabernacle, which was a portable sanctuary where the Israelites would worship God during their journey in the wilderness. In this verse, God specifies some of the materials that the people were to contribute for the construction of the tabernacle and its various elements.
Symbolic significance of materials:
- Blue: The colour blue is often associated with heavenly or divine qualities. It represents the divine nature, authority, and the presence of God. It reminds the Israelites that they were building a place of worship for the one true God.
- Purple: Purple is a colour associated with royalty, wealth, and nobility. By using purple, the tabernacle would have an element of majesty, emphasizing the importance and significance of worshiping God.
- Scarlet: The colour scarlet is often associated with sacrifice and blood. It symbolises the atonement and reminds the Israelites of their need for redemption and forgiveness from God.
- Fine linen: Fine linen is a symbol of purity, righteousness, and holiness. It represents the Israelites’ dedication to God and their desire to approach Him with reverence and obedience.
- Goats’ hair: Goats’ hair was used for the outer covering of the tabernacle. It is a more humble material compared to the others mentioned. This could symbolise the humility and simplicity of the worshipers who bring their offerings to God.
Spiritual application:
- Offering our best: The materials mentioned in this verse represent the Israelites’ offerings and contributions towards the tabernacle. As believers, we are called to offer our best to God in worship, service, and giving. Just as the Israelites offered valuable and meaningful materials, we should give our wholehearted devotion, talents, resources, and time to honour and glorify God.
- Recognising God’s presence: The choice of colours in the tabernacle signifies the importance of acknowledging God’s presence in our worship. We should approach Him with reverence and awe, recognising His divine nature and authority. Our worship should reflect our understanding that we are coming into the presence of the King of kings and Lord of lords.
- Humility and righteousness: The contrast between the fine linen and the goats’ hair reminds us of the balance between humility and righteousness in our worship. While we approach God with humility, acknowledging our unworthiness, we also strive to live righteously and be holy as He is holy. Our worship should reflect both our recognition of our need for God’s grace and our commitment to follow His commandments.
