“He made curtains of goats’ hair for the tent over the tabernacle: eleven curtains he made them.”
Context: In the book of Exodus, the Israelites have been liberated from slavery in Egypt and are now journeying through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. During this time, God gives specific instructions to Moses on building the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary where the Israelites could worship and offer sacrifices. In Exodus 26, detailed instructions are given for constructing the Tabernacle and its various components. This includes the outer covering of the Tabernacle, which was made of several layers of materials. The verse in question (Exodus 36:14) is part of the description of how the tent over the Tabernacle was made.
Materials Used:
- “Curtains of goats’ hair”: These curtains were made from goats’ hair and served as the outer covering of the Tabernacle. They were durable and provide protection from the elements.
Number of Curtains:
- “Eleven curtains he made them”: There were eleven curtains made from goats’ hair. These curtains were to be joined together to form a large covering for the Tabernacle.
Symbolic Meaning: While the verse doesn’t explicitly provide symbolic meaning, we can draw some spiritual lessons from it:
Diversity in Unity: The fact that there were eleven curtains highlights the idea of unity in diversity. Each curtain was unique in its design and had its distinct purpose, but together they formed a unified and functional structure. This can remind us of the diversity of gifts and callings among believers in the body of Christ, yet we are all one in Christ, working together for His purposes (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).
Holistic Worship: The Tabernacle was the place where God’s presence dwelled among His people. The diverse materials used in its construction, including the goats’ hair curtains, remind us that worship is not just limited to one aspect of life but involves every aspect of our being. Our worship should encompass our thoughts, actions, and lifestyle (Romans 12:1-2).
Attention to Detail and Obedience: When reading the passages before Exodus 36:14, we see that the Israelites followed God’s instructions precisely in constructing the Tabernacle. They used the specific materials and dimensions as God had directed. This highlights the importance of obedience to God’s Word and the value of attention to detail when serving Him.
Typology: In Christian theology, some scholars see typology in the Tabernacle’s construction. For example, the Tabernacle itself is seen as a foreshadowing of Christ, with each of its elements representing aspects of His character or work.
Application:
Unity in Diversity: As Christians, we are called to appreciate and embrace the diversity of the body of Christ, using our unique gifts and abilities to serve and build up one another (Ephesians 4:11-16).
Holistic Worship: Let our worship of God extend beyond mere rituals or religious activities. May it permeate every area of our lives, reflecting our love for Him and obedience to His commands (Colossians 3:17, 1 Corinthians 10:31).
Obedience and Attention to Detail: Just as the Israelites followed God’s instructions carefully, let us be diligent in studying and obeying God’s Word, paying attention to the details of His commands (John 14:15, Joshua 1:8).
In conclusion, Exodus 36:14 may seem like a simple description of the Tabernacle’s construction, but it carries valuable lessons for believers today. It reminds us of unity in diversity, holistic worship, and the importance of obedience and attention to God’s Word. By applying these principles to our lives, we can grow in our relationship with God and effectively serve Him in our communities.
