“And for the gate of the court shall be an hanging of twenty cubits, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, wrought with needlework: and their pillars shall be four, and their sockets four.”
Context:The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and recounts the historical events of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt under the leadership of Moses. In this specific passage, the focus is on the construction and completion of the tabernacle‑a portable sanctuary where God would dwell among His people during their journey through the wilderness.
Explanation and Commentary:In Exodus 39:40, the verse describes the gate of the court of the tabernacle. The tabernacle had an outer court that was enclosed by a curtain or hanging. This curtain acted as a gate, and it was significant because it marked the entrance to the tabernacle and symbolized the separation between the holiness of God’s dwelling place and the common space outside.
“A hanging of twenty cubits”: The gate curtain was made of fine materials and measured twenty cubits in length. A cubit was the length of a person’s forearm, typically around 18 inches (45.72 cm), so the hanging would be about 30 feet (9.14 meters) long.
“Of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen”: The hanging was crafted using four specific materials: blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen. These colours and materials were carefully chosen and held symbolic meanings: Blue represented the heavenly and divine nature of God. Purple symbolised royalty and majesty, acknowledging God as the King of the Israelites. Scarlet indicated sacrifice and the blood that would be shed for the forgiveness of sins. Fine twined linen was associated with purity and righteousness. Together, these materials portrayed the attributes of God and emphasised the sacredness of the tabernacle.
“Wrought with needlework”: The hanging was not just plain fabric; it was adorned with skilled needlework. This needlework demonstrated the Israelites’ dedication to creating a beautiful and intricate entrance to God’s dwelling place.
“Their pillars shall be four, and their sockets four”: Four pillars were set up to support the gate curtain, and they were anchored into sockets. The number four often symbolises completeness and stability in the Bible.
Spiritual Lessons:God’s Holiness and Man’s Access: The gate of the tabernacle represents the holiness of God and the need for a designated entrance into His presence. This gate was a reminder that God is holy and righteous, and access to Him requires proper preparation and reverence.
The Way to God:Jesus Christ later proclaimed Himself as “the gate” or “the door” through which people can access God (John 10:9). The gate of the tabernacle foreshadows the ultimate access to God through faith in Jesus Christ.
Symbolism of Colours:The colours used in the gate’s hanging point to different aspects of Christ’s character: His divinity (blue), His royalty (purple), and His sacrifice on the cross (scarlet). Jesus embodies all these attributes and fulfils the symbolism of the gate.
Dedication to Worship:The needlework on the hanging emphasises the Israelites’ dedication to creating something beautiful and worthy for God’s dwelling. It serves as a reminder of our need to offer our best to God in worship and service.
Conclusion:Exodus 39:40 highlights the careful attention to detail and symbolism in the construction of the tabernacle. It also points forward to the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who became the ultimate gate through which we can have access to God’s presence. As we study this verse, let us remember the significance of the gate and strive to approach God with reverence, recognising the privilege of having a personal relationship with our Heavenly Father through faith in Jesus Christ.
