Exodus 26:36
And thou shalt make an hanging for the door of the tent, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, wrought with needlework.
Original Language Analysis
וְעָשִׂ֤יתָ
And thou shalt make
H6213
וְעָשִׂ֤יתָ
And thou shalt make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 12
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
לְפֶ֣תַח
for the door
H6607
לְפֶ֣תַח
for the door
Strong's:
H6607
Word #:
3 of 12
an opening (literally), i.e., door (gate) or entrance way
תְּכֵ֧לֶת
of blue
H8504
תְּכֵ֧לֶת
of blue
Strong's:
H8504
Word #:
5 of 12
the cerulean mussel, i.e., the color (violet) obtained therefrom or stuff dyed therewith
וְתוֹלַ֥עַת
and scarlet
H8438
וְתוֹלַ֥עַת
and scarlet
Strong's:
H8438
Word #:
7 of 12
a maggot (as voracious); specifically (often with ellipsis of h8144) the crimson-grub, but used only (in this connection) of the color from it, and cl
שָׁנִ֖י
H8144
שָׁנִ֖י
Strong's:
H8144
Word #:
8 of 12
crimson, properly, the insect or its color, also stuff dyed with it
וְשֵׁ֣שׁ
linen
H8336
וְשֵׁ֣שׁ
linen
Strong's:
H8336
Word #:
9 of 12
bleached stuff, i.e., white linen or (by analogy) marble
Historical Context
This embroidered screen hung at the tabernacle's eastern entrance, protecting the Holy Place's interior from public view while allowing priests to enter for their assigned service. Its colors matched the inner veil but its design was simpler.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the progression of access (court, Holy Place, Most Holy Place) teach about spiritual growth?
- How does entering Christ's service (Holy Place) differ from entering His intimate presence (Most Holy Place)?
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Analysis & Commentary
The hanging (screen) for the tent door—the entrance to the Holy Place—is blue, purple, scarlet, fine linen. Unlike the inner veil (which had cherubim), this entrance screen has no cherubim; it's simpler, more accessible. It represents initial consecration—entering God's service. The way is open for consecrated priests, though the Most Holy Place remains veiled until Christ's death. Progressive access: first the court (all Israel), then Holy Place (priests), finally Most Holy (high priest/Christ).