Exodus 26:13 - The cubit on the one side, and the cubit on the other side, of that which remains in the length of the curtains of the tent, shall hang over the sides of the tabernacle on this side and on that side, to cover it.

Generated Verse: Exodus 26:13

What does "Exodus 26:13" mean?


This verse from Exodus 26:13 is describing how the extra length of the tabernacle's curtains should be draped over the sides of the structure. Let's break it down:

"The cubit on the one side, and the cubit on the other side...": A "cubit" is an ancient unit of measurement, roughly the length of a forearm (from elbow to fingertip), typically estimated to be around 18 inches. This refers to one cubit of extra fabric on each side of the joined curtains.
"...of that which remains in the length of the curtains of the tent...": The curtains are longer than the width of the tabernacle frame they are meant to cover. This extra length is what is being described here.
"...shall hang over the sides of the tabernacle on this side and on that side, to cover it.": This extra length, one cubit on each side, is not meant to be tucked in or folded. Instead, it is designed to hang over the sides of the tabernacle's wooden frame. This overhanging fabric provides additional protection and covering for the tabernacle structure.

In simpler terms:

Imagine you have a blanket that's a little wider than your bed. Instead of tucking in the extra blanket material on both sides, you let it hang down. That's what's happening here. The tabernacle's curtains are intentionally made wider than the frame, with one cubit of extra fabric hanging down on each side to provide added covering and protection.

Why this is important:

Protection: The overhanging curtains would have helped to protect the tabernacle's structure from the elements like sun, wind, and rain, which were harsh in the desert.
Aesthetics: While primarily functional, the overhanging curtains also likely contributed to the overall appearance of the tabernacle, creating a more complete and finished look.
Following God's Instructions Precisely: This verse emphasizes the importance of following God's instructions to the letter. Every detail, even seemingly small ones like how the extra curtain length should be handled, was important in the construction of the tabernacle.

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