Exodus 36:10

And he coupled the fiue curtaines one vnto another: and the other fiue curtaines he coupled one vnto another. Exodus 36:10 (KJV)

Exodus 36 is situated within the larger narrative of the Israelites’ construction of the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary that served as the center of worship during their wilderness journey. This verse draws attention to the assembly of the inner covering of the Tabernacle. The curtains mentioned were finely woven linen—some dyed blue, purple, and scarlet—and were hung to form an enclosed space that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (the Holy of Holies). The passage highlights the skillful craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail that characterize the entire chapter.

Divine Instructions

The building of the Tabernacle was not a human invention but a divinely inspired project. God gave Moses specific instructions (see Exodus 25‑31) concerning every material, dimension, and design element. Carrying out these instructions was an act of obedience and faithfulness to God’s command.

Skilled Workers

Bezalel and Oholiab, appointed by God and filled with the Spirit, led the work. Their special wisdom, understanding, and skill in all kinds of craftsmanship demonstrate that God values the use of the talents He bestows for His purposes.

Unity and Collaboration

The phrase “he coupled the five curtains one unto another; and the other five curtains he coupled one unto another” underscores the teamwork involved. Individual curtains were joined to form larger units, which were then assembled into the complete structure. This emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation in accomplishing God’s work.

Symbolism of the Curtains

Linen is often associated with righteousness and purity. Its use in the Tabernacle represents the holiness and righteousness of God. The separation created by the curtains points to the barrier between God’s holy presence and sinful humanity, highlighting the need for a mediator.

Spiritual Applications

Obedience and Faithfulness – Just as the Israelites faithfully followed God’s instructions for the Tabernacle, believers are called to obey God’s commands, demonstrating love and devotion.

Spiritual Gifts – God equips His people with diverse gifts. Like Bezalel and Oholiab, we should employ our abilities for God’s glory, recognizing that they come from Him.

Unity in the Church – The collaborative effort required to build the Tabernacle mirrors how the Church functions best when members work together in harmony, respecting each other’s roles.

Access to God – The curtains remind us of the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ becomes the mediator who tears down that barrier through His sacrifice, granting believers direct access to God through faith.

Overall, Exodus 36:10 offers valuable insight into the meticulous construction of the Tabernacle and provides practical lessons for our spiritual lives today. It calls us to follow God’s instructions, use our God‑given gifts, work in unity, and cherish the access to God made possible through Christ.