“Make the tabernacle with ten curtains of finely twisted linen
and blue, purple and scarlet yarn, with cherubim woven into them by a
skilled worker.”
— Exodus 26:1 (New International Version)
As we journey deeper into the heart of Exodus, chapter 26 greets us with a detailed description of the tabernacle’s construction. At first glance, it may appear that we are lost amidst curtain loops, clasps, acacia wood, cherubim, and the meticulous positioning of materials. However, beneath these precisely ordained instructions lies a profound theological truth: God cares deeply about how His people approach Him, worship Him, and dwell with Him.
The meticulous instructions given to Moses mirror the sacredness and intentionality with which we, too, must approach worship and communion with God. Every dimension, color, and material was thoughtfully chosen and divinely appointed. The use of blue, purple, and scarlet threads—colors incredibly expensive and significant in the ancient Near Eastern context—reminds us of royalty, sacrifice, and divine transcendence. The interwoven cherubim highlight God’s holiness, echoing Eden’s cherubim who guarded the presence of God after humanity’s Fall (Genesis 3:24), and foreshadowing the heavenly worship of the seraphim in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4:8.
Hebrews 8:5 explicitly interprets this passage, teaching that the earthly tabernacle built by Moses was a “copy and shadow of what is in heaven” (New International Version). The emerging reality here is crucial: the earthly tabernacle anticipated a greater and more perfect sanctuary—Christ Himself, Emmanuel, God-with-us (John 1:14; Hebrews 9:11).
Historically, many great Christian thinkers, such as Augustine and Calvin, viewed these precise instructions as teaching tools, guiding Israel in reverent obedience and commitment to God’s holy standards. By carefully obeying these detailed commands, Israel learned that worship is meaningful and purposeful—not casual or arbitrary.
A significant feature appears within this chapter: the instructions for the curtain (Hebrew: paroket) that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Exodus 26:31–33). It symbolized God’s holiness and humanity’s separation from direct, unmitigated divine presence. Only the high priest, once each year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16), was permitted beyond that curtain into the presence of God.
This is significant for Christians, as Jesus Christ’s death on the cross led to the moment when “the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom” (Matthew 27:51, New International Version). Through Christ, the barrier between humanity and God is removed. Today, you and I have free and bold access to the Father through Jesus—our true High Priest (Hebrews 4:14–16).
The Hebrew term for tabernacle (Mishkan) comes from the root word shakan, meaning “to dwell” or “abide.” It reflects the central purpose of the tabernacle: a holy dwelling place for God among His people. God’s desire has always been intimate companionship and fellowship with His creation.
Significant archaeological discoveries underline the realism of these instructions. Egyptian and Near Eastern historical records demonstrate comparable structures built for royal and divine figures. Israel, however, uniquely emphasized portable construction, underscoring God’s personal journey alongside His covenant people—a God who moves with us wherever we go.
Today, consider reflecting on the hymn “Come, Thou Almighty King.” Its call for God’s abiding presence and fervent worship resonates with the themes of Exodus 26:
Come, thou Almighty King,
Help us thy Name to sing, help us to praise!
Father all glorious,
O’er all victorious,
Come and reign over us, Ancient of Days!
Each detail in Exodus 26 calls us to marvel at the majestic plan of God—the God who desires not mere followers, but intimate communion. Invite Him anew to dwell richly within you, shaping your worship, and guiding your steps.
Gracious and majestic Father,
We stand in awe of your holiness and your loving desire to dwell among
your people. You teach us through ancient patterns how precious your
presence truly is. Thank you for Jesus—our true tabernacle, our access
into Your holy presence. Help us daily embrace the beauty, reverence,
and intention you call for in worship. May your Spirit dwell richly
within us and shape every moment of our lives.
Amen.