This verse from Exodus 26:12 refers to the precise construction of the Tabernacle, specifically the linen curtains that formed its outer covering. Let's break it down:
"The overhanging part that remains of the curtains of the tent...": The Tabernacle was covered with ten curtains made of fine linen, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim worked into them. These curtains were joined together into two sets of five. Because of the dimensions of the tabernacle, the curtains were larger than the space they needed to cover the sides and front of the structure.
"...the half curtain that remains...": The extra length of the curtains was not just a small overlap. Instead, the verse specifies that half a curtain was left over.
"...shall hang over the back of the tabernacle.": This half curtain was to be draped down the back (west side) of the Tabernacle. The NIV translation says: "the extra half section of the tent curtain is to be allowed to fall over the back of the tabernacle."
Meaning and Significance
1. Aesthetics and Coverage: The overhanging curtain provided a more complete and visually appealing coverage of the Tabernacle. It prevented gaps and ensured that the structure was fully enclosed, fulfilling its purpose of being a sacred, set-apart place.
2. Practicality: The extra fabric might have also served a practical purpose, offering added protection from the elements like wind and rain.
3. Following Divine Instructions Precisely: This verse, along with the meticulous details throughout Exodus, emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions with exactness. Even a seemingly small detail like the placement of the overhanging curtain was significant in fulfilling God's design. The Israelites were not free to improvise or modify the design. The exactness of the instructions shows that God wanted the Tabernacle built according to His perfect blueprint.
In short, Exodus 26:12 speaks to the careful and precise construction of the Tabernacle, where even the seemingly minor detail of an overhanging curtain served a purpose in both aesthetics and practicality, and most importantly, in obediently following God's instructions.
This verse from Exodus 26:12 refers to the precise construction of the Tabernacle, specifically the linen curtains that formed its outer covering. Let's break it down:
"The overhanging part that remains of the curtains of the tent...": The Tabernacle was covered with ten curtains made of fine linen, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim worked into them. These curtains were joined together into two sets of five. Because of the dimensions of the tabernacle, the curtains were larger than the space they needed to cover the sides and front of the structure.
"...the half curtain that remains...": The extra length of the curtains was not just a small overlap. Instead, the verse specifies that half a curtain was left over.
"...shall hang over the back of the tabernacle.": This half curtain was to be draped down the back (west side) of the Tabernacle. The NIV translation says: "the extra half section of the tent curtain is to be allowed to fall over the back of the tabernacle."
Meaning and Significance
1. Aesthetics and Coverage: The overhanging curtain provided a more complete and visually appealing coverage of the Tabernacle. It prevented gaps and ensured that the structure was fully enclosed, fulfilling its purpose of being a sacred, set-apart place.
2. Practicality: The extra fabric might have also served a practical purpose, offering added protection from the elements like wind and rain.
3. Following Divine Instructions Precisely: This verse, along with the meticulous details throughout Exodus, emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions with exactness. Even a seemingly small detail like the placement of the overhanging curtain was significant in fulfilling God's design. The Israelites were not free to improvise or modify the design. The exactness of the instructions shows that God wanted the Tabernacle built according to His perfect blueprint.
In short, Exodus 26:12 speaks to the careful and precise construction of the Tabernacle, where even the seemingly minor detail of an overhanging curtain served a purpose in both aesthetics and practicality, and most importantly, in obediently following God's instructions.