“And two curtains made he, of goats’ hair, to be a covering upon the tent over the tabernacle: eleven curtains he made.” – Exodus 36:28 (KJV)
“Then he made two coverings of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle; he made eleven of these coverings in all.” – Exodus 36:28 (NLT)
“He made two more covers of goat hair to be the tent’s outer layer; eleven covers were made in all.” – Exodus 36:28 (MSG)
What Does Exodus 36:28 Mean?
In Exodus 36:28, we find that God instructed the Israelites to create coverings for the tabernacle. This instruction is significant as it shows the care and intention behind the creation of a sacred place for worship. The mention of goat hair highlights a specific material being used for its durability and utility.
This passage reveals the importance of the tabernacle in the context of the Israelite’s journey. It was more than just a structure; it represented God’s presence among His people. The meticulous details in which God describes how the coverings were to be made suggest that worship should be done with intention and reverence. By focusing on such specific materials, we see that God cared deeply for how His dwelling place was represented.
Exodus 36:28 Explanation and Commentary
As we examine Exodus 36:28, we see that the tabernacle was composed of various components, and this verse highlights just one aspect—the coverings that would help protect and insulate the structure. The use of goat hair for these covers reflects both practicality and symbolism. Goat hair was a common material in that time, known for its strength and ability to withstand weather conditions. It teaches us that our worship spaces should be built to last, just as we should be intentional in our spiritual practices.
When we delve deeper into the significance of the tabernacle, it becomes clear that this was where God’s presence would dwell among His people. The tabernacle was meant to be a physical representation of God’s promise to be with the Israelites throughout their journey. Each component, from the structure to the coverings, was symbolic of a deeper spiritual truth: that God desires to dwell with humanity, despite our imperfections.
The act of creating the coverings also demonstrates teamwork and dedication. Each craftsman involved in making the tabernacle and its coverings worked with their skills and resources, which reflects our communal role in building the church today. The Israelites came together, each contributing to a shared purpose of creating a space to honor God.
Understanding this verse encourages us to reflect not only on the physical structures we create for worship but also on how we prepare our hearts. Just as the coverings were essential for the tabernacle, our hearts should be covered with reverence and humility as we approach God. Each layer built into the tabernacle’s design reminds us of our need for God’s protection and our responsibility to create an environment where His spirit can flourish.
Context of Exodus 36:28
The context of Exodus 36:28 is found in the larger narrative of the Israelites’ journey to the Promised Land. These instructions were given after the Israelites had been liberated from slavery in Egypt and were wandering in the wilderness. God was establishing His covenant relationship with them. The tabernacle represented God’s presence, and it was to be a focal point of worship and community.
This was not merely an architectural endeavor; it was a spiritual undertaking. God’s instructions for the tabernacle encompassed various materials, structures, and coverings, indicating that worship was to be immersive and dedicated. The events leading up to this included the giving of the Ten Commandments and the establishment of the priesthood, underscoring the significance of having a sacred place for worship and communion with God.
Additionally, the Israelites had quickly turned to idol worship when Moses was absent, prompting God to provide specific guidelines to help solidify their focus on Him. It was a lesson in obedience, trust, and the need for physical reminders of faith. The two coverings mentioned in Exodus 36:28 were part of a broader context that emphasized the necessity of the Israelites maintaining a constant connection with God.
As we reflect on this context, we see how God calls us to construct our lives in a way that allows His presence to dwell within us. Just as the tabernacle was a mobile home for God among the Israelites, we too are mobile witnesses of His glory in our everyday lives. This calls for us to be intentional about how we represent Him and how we engage with our surroundings.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Exodus 36:28
Examining the key phrases in Exodus 36:28, we observe that the coverings made from goat hair had a functional and symbolic purpose. The emphasis on “two coverings” suggests that there was an intention behind the design of the tabernacle, affecting its layout and use. The craftsmanship displayed in the intricate design demonstrates an invitation for us to take part in creating a meaningful environment for worship.
The process of making these coverings was an act of service—a contribution that each individual could make toward the collective goal. It reflects community involvement as the Israelites worked together to fulfill God’s command. This idea resonates in our present-day communities as we work collaboratively to further God’s kingdom.
Additionally, the choice of materials and methods in the construction of the tabernacle correlates with our personal and community lives. We are reminded that God values what we bring to the table, no matter how simple or humble it may seem. Each piece adds beauty and structure to the overall design, similar to how each of us plays a vital role in our spiritual communities.
The intention behind using goat hair—a material of durability—connects with the idea that our faith should withstand the test of time. In a world filled with uncertainty, our relationship with Christ serves as a strong foundation that we can rely on. Just as the coverings protected the inner sanctum of the tabernacle, we too have the responsibility to protect our hearts and the hearts of others through love, encouragement, and shared faith.
Lessons to Learn From Exodus 36:28
Exodus 36:28 offers various lessons that we can apply in our spiritual lives. One of the most significant lessons is the importance of building a solid foundation for our faith. Just as the tabernacle had multiple layers of protection, our spiritual lives must also be fortified with commitment, worship, and community support.
This passage encourages us to be intentional about the environments we create for ourselves and others. Each layer and each aspect of our lives should point others toward Christ. We should ask ourselves: Are we providing a place where God’s presence can flourish? Are we creating an atmosphere of love, respect, and reverence in our communities?
Teamwork emerges as another key lesson. The Israelites participated in a collective task, which reminds us that faith is not a solo experience; it flourishes in community. Working together as a church allows us to pool our gifts and resources, reflecting God’s glory through our unity. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 tells us that two are better than one; when we work together, we are stronger and more capable of achieving God’s purposes.
Finally, there is an eternal lesson about God’s desire to dwell with us. The tabernacle was not just a physical structure; it was a symbol of God’s heart for relationship. Through Christ, we can experience the fullness of His presence daily. This relationship is akin to the coverings that provided safety and shelter; the love of God surrounds and protects us in our daily lives.
Final Thoughts
In closing this reflection on Exodus 36:28, we remember that the heart of worship lies in the details. The care and effort put into creating the tabernacle reflect the same care we are called to apply to our spiritual journeys. Let’s take the lessons we learn from this verse to heart as we cultivate our faith, ensure our worship reflects God’s glory, and maintain a loving community centered around Him.
As we move forward, let us explore more topics like communion with God, coming to Jesus, and God’s promises in Genesis that can deepen our understanding of His nature and how we can honor Him in all aspects of our lives. God bless!