“And he coupled the five curtains one unto another: and the other five curtains he coupled one unto another.”
Context:Exodus 36 is part of the larger narrative of the construction of the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary that the Israelites built in the wilderness under the guidance of Moses. The Tabernacle was a place of worship and the central focus of their religious life during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.
In this particular verse, the focus is on the construction of the inner covering or curtain of the Tabernacle. These curtains were made of finely woven linen and were to be hung inside the Tabernacle to form an enclosed space, separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies). The skillful craftsmanship and attention to detail are emphasised throughout the chapter.
Key Points:
- Divine Instructions:The construction of the Tabernacle was not a human idea; it was divinely inspired. God had given Moses specific instructions on how to build it (Exodus 25-31). Every detail, including the materials used, the dimensions, and the design, was according to God’s plan. The construction was an act of obedience and faithfulness to God’s command.
- Skilled Workers:Exodus 36:1-2 mentions that Bezalel and Oholiab were appointed by God and filled with the Spirit of God to lead the construction. These men were given special wisdom, understanding, and skill in all kinds of craftsmanship. The fact that God enabled skilled artisans to carry out the work indicates that God values the use of talents and abilities 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” highlights the teamwork and cooperation involved in the construction. The individual curtains were connected to form larger units, which were then assembled together to create the complete structure. This emphasises the importance of unity and collaboration in accomplishing God’s work.
- Symbolism of the Curtains:The linen curtains held symbolic significance. Linen is often associated with righteousness and purity in the Bible. The use of linen in the construction of the Tabernacle represents the holiness and righteousness of God. The separation of the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place by these curtains signifies the barrier between God’s presence and sinful humanity, highlighting the need for a mediator.
Spiritual Applications:
- Obedience and Faithfulness:Just as Moses and the Israelites were faithful in carrying out God’s instructions for the Tabernacle, we are called to be obedient and faithful in following God’s commands in our lives. Our obedience demonstrates our love and devotion to God.
- Spiritual Gifts:God equips His people with various gifts and talents to serve Him and contribute to His Kingdom. Like Bezalel and Oholiab, we should use our skills and abilities for God’s glory, acknowledging that these gifts come from Him.
- Unity in the Church:The construction of the Tabernacle required collaboration and unity among the workers. Similarly, the Church functions most effectively when its members work together in harmony, respecting each other’s roles and contributions.
- Access to God:The curtains in the Tabernacle remind us of the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ becomes our mediator, tearing down the barrier through His sacrifice on the cross. Through faith in Christ, we can now have direct access to God.
Overall, Exodus 36:10 provides valuable insights into the construction of the Tabernacle and offers practical lessons for our spiritual lives today. It emphasises the importance of following God’s instructions, using our God-given gifts, working in unity, and recognising our access to God through Jesus Christ.
