“And the hanging for the gate of the court was needlework, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: and twenty cubits was the length, and the height in the breadth was five cubits, answerable to the hangings of the court.”
Now, let’s break down this verse and explore its significance:
- The Gate of the Court: In the Tabernacle structure, the gate of the court was the entrance through which the priests and people would enter the outer court. It was an important component, representing the way to approach God and enter into His presence.
- Needlework of Blue, Purple, Scarlet, and Fine Twined Linen: The gate was made of intricately woven fabric, combining four colours: blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen. Each colour has symbolic significance: Blue: Represents the heavenly nature of God and His authority. Purple: Represents royalty and the kingship of God. Scarlet: Symbolizes sacrifice, atonement, and redemption. Fine Twined Linen: Often signifies purity and righteousness.
- Dimensions of the Hanging: The hanging for the gate was twenty cubits in length and five cubits in height. A cubit was a standard unit of measurement, approximately the length from a person’s elbow to the tip of their fingers. This size made the gate prominent and easily recognizable.
- Answerable to the Hangings of the Court: The gate’s dimensions were in line with the other hangings (curtains) used in the construction of the outer court. This consistency ensured uniformity and a sense of order in the overall design of the Tabernacle.
Spiritual Lessons from Exodus 38:18:Approaching God with Reverence: The gate being the entry point to the court reminds us that access to God’s presence requires a sense of reverence and respect. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as the gate for the sheep (John 10:7-9), emphasizing that He is the only way to the Father.
- Symbolism of Colours: The colours used in the gate’s construction teach us about the attributes of God. They remind us of His heavenly nature, kingship, sacrifice, and righteousness. These qualities help us understand God’s character and how He desires us to live in alignment with His principles.
- Uniformity and Order: The consistency in the dimensions of the gate and other hangings represents the importance of order and unity within the community of believers. In the New Testament, Paul encourages the Church to be united in Christ (1 Corinthians 1:10) and function as a well-coordinated body (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).
- A Foreshadowing of Christ: The gate, with its colours and symbolism, foreshadows Jesus Christ, who fulfils these representations. Jesus is the only way to God (John 14:6), the King of kings (Revelation 19:16), the sacrificial Lamb (John 1:29), and the embodiment of righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:30).
