“And for the other side of the court gate, on this hand and that hand, were hangings of fifteen cubits; their pillars three, and their sockets three.”
Context:The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and is an essential part of the Pentateuch, also known as the Torah, which includes the first five books of the Old Testament. Exodus narrates the story of the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt under the leadership of Moses. In this specific verse, the focus is on the construction of the tabernacle, a portable sanctuary that the Israelites carried with them in the wilderness.
Biblical Significance:Exodus 38:15 describes the arrangement of the hangings and pillars on one side of the court gate of the tabernacle. These hangings formed a barrier around the tabernacle courtyard, separating the sacred space from the rest of the camp. The tabernacle was a central place of worship for the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.
The Court Gate:The “court gate” mentioned in this verse refers to the entrance to the tabernacle courtyard. It was the point of entry for the priests and the people who wanted to bring offerings to the Lord. The gate symbolised the separation between the holiness of God’s presence within the tabernacle and the outside world.
The Hangings:The hangings were made of fine twined linen and served as a protective barrier around the courtyard. They were approximately 15 cubits in length (around 22.5 feet or 6.8 meters). These hangings were supported by pillars.
The Pillars and Sockets:The verse mentions three pillars on each side of the gate, making a total of six pillars. These pillars held up the hangings and were probably made of acacia wood, which was a common material used in constructing the tabernacle. Each pillar was set into a socket, likely made of bronze or copper, which provided stability and support.
Spiritual Lessons:
- Separation and Holiness:The tabernacle gate and its hangings serve as a reminder of the importance of holiness and separation. The tabernacle was a place where God’s presence dwelt among the people, and it emphasised the need for consecration and reverence when approaching God. Today, it reminds us of the importance of setting ourselves apart from the world and dedicating ourselves to God’s service.
- The Way to God:The gate was the only entrance into the tabernacle courtyard, signifying that there is only one way to approach God. In the New Testament, Jesus declares Himself as “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Through faith in Christ, we can have access to God’s presence and experience a personal relationship with Him.
- Order and Design:The detailed instructions for constructing the tabernacle illustrate God’s desire for order, precision, and beauty in His worship. It shows the importance of offering our best to God in everything we do, including our worship and service.
Conclusion:Exodus 38:15 provides a glimpse into the careful planning and execution of the tabernacle, a significant structure in the Old Testament. It teaches us about the importance of holiness, the singular path to God, and the value of offering our best to the Lord. As we study these passages, we can also find parallels and spiritual lessons that are applicable to our lives today, reminding us of the need to approach God with reverence and dedication.
