Exodus 26:36

Authorized King James Version

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.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְעָשִׂ֤יתָ

H6213

And thou shalt make

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

מָסָךְ֙

H4539

an hanging

a cover, i.e., veil

לְפֶ֣תַח

H6607

for the door

an opening (literally), i.e., door (gate) or entrance way

הָאֹ֔הֶל

H168

of the tent

a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)

תְּכֵ֧לֶת

H8504

of blue

the cerulean mussel, i.e., the color (violet) obtained therefrom or stuff dyed therewith

וְאַרְגָּמָ֛ן

H713

and purple

purple (the color or the dyed stuff)

וְתוֹלַ֥עַת

H8438

and scarlet

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

crimson, properly, the insect or its color, also stuff dyed with it

וְשֵׁ֣שׁ

H8336

linen

bleached stuff, i.e., white linen or (by analogy) marble

#10

מָשְׁזָ֑ר

H7806

and fine twined

to twist (a thread of straw)

#11

מַֽעֲשֵׂ֖ה

H4639

wrought

an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property

#12

רֹקֵֽם׃

H7551

with needlework

to variegate color, i.e., embroider; by implication, to fabricate

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Exodus.

Historical Context

The historical context of the period of Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1440-1400 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this verse's literary context within Exodus chapter 26 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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