“And he made a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: with cherubims made he it of cunning work.”
Context:Exodus 36 is part of the larger narrative of the construction of the tabernacle, which was a portable sanctuary for worship that the Israelites built in the wilderness under the guidance of Moses. This chapter specifically focuses on the skilled artisans and craftsmen who were filled with the Spirit of God to construct the tabernacle and its various elements.
The Veil:The verse begins by mentioning the "vail" (veil) that was created. In the tabernacle, the veil was a significant piece of fabric that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies). It symbolised the separation between God’s dwelling place and the people, signifying the holiness and transcendence of God.
Materials and Colors:The veil was made from a combination of materials – blue, purple, and scarlet – along with fine twined linen. Each of these materials and colors holds symbolic significance:
- Blue: Often associated with heavenly things and the divine. It reflects the heavenly origin of the tabernacle and points to God’s presence above.
- Purple: Represents royalty and majesty, signifying God’s sovereignty and kingship.
- Scarlet: Symbolises sacrifice and atonement, foreshadowing the blood that would be shed for the forgiveness of sins.
- Fine Twined Linen: Known for its purity and righteousness, it signifies the holiness required in approaching God.
Cherubim:The verse mentions that the veil was adorned with cherubim. Cherubim are angelic beings associated with the presence of God and His holiness. In the Bible, they are often depicted as guardians of God’s glory and agents of divine judgment (e.g., Genesis 3:24). Their presence on the veil emphasises the sacredness of the space behind it – the Holy of Holies – where the Ark of the Covenant would be placed.
Cunning Work:The phrase "cunning work" in the KJV refers to skilled craftsmanship. The construction of the tabernacle required highly skilled artisans, and God filled them with His Spirit, imparting them with wisdom and ability to create these intricate and sacred pieces.
Spiritual Application:The construction of the tabernacle, including the veil, carries several spiritual lessons for believers today:
- Holiness and Access to God:The veil reminds us of the holiness of God and the need for a mediator to approach Him. In the New Testament, we see that through Jesus Christ, the veil separating us from God’s presence has been torn (Matthew 27:51). Now, all believers have direct access to God through faith in Jesus.
- God’s Sovereignty and Majesty:The use of purple represents God’s sovereignty and majesty. As believers, we acknowledge God’s authority over our lives and recognise Him as the King of kings and Lord of lords.
- Atonement and Sacrifice:The scarlet colour points to the atonement and the shedding of blood for the forgiveness of sins. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross fulfilled this need for atonement once and for all, making a way for reconciliation between God and humanity.
- Skilled in Service:The emphasis on "cunning work" highlights the importance of using our God-given talents and skills to serve Him and others. God equips His people with gifts through the Holy Spirit to build up the Church and carry out His work on earth.
In summary, Exodus 36:35 illustrates the beauty and symbolism embedded in the construction of the tabernacle, providing spiritual insights into God’s holiness, sovereignty, sacrifice, and our call to serve Him with the skills and talents He has given us.
