Exodus 27:15
And on the other side shall be hangings fifteen cubits: their pillars three, and their sockets three.
Original Language Analysis
וְלַכָּתֵף֙
side
H3802
וְלַכָּתֵף֙
side
Strong's:
H3802
Word #:
1 of 9
the shoulder (proper, i.e., upper end of the arm; as being the spot where the garments hang); figuratively, side-piece or lateral projection of anythi
הַשֵּׁנִ֔ית
And on the other
H8145
הַשֵּׁנִ֔ית
And on the other
Strong's:
H8145
Word #:
2 of 9
properly, double, i.e., second; also adverbially, again
עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה
H6240
עֶשְׂרֵ֖ה
Strong's:
H6240
Word #:
4 of 9
ten (only in combination), i.e., -teen; also (ordinal) -teenth
קְלָעִ֑ים
shall be hangings
H7050
קְלָעִ֑ים
shall be hangings
Strong's:
H7050
Word #:
5 of 9
a (door) screen (as if slung across), or the valve (of the door) itself
עַמֻּֽדֵיהֶ֣ם
cubits their pillars
H5982
עַמֻּֽדֵיהֶ֣ם
cubits their pillars
Strong's:
H5982
Word #:
6 of 9
a column (as standing); also a stand, i.e., platform
שְׁלֹשָֽׁה׃
three
H7969
שְׁלֹשָֽׁה׃
three
Strong's:
H7969
Word #:
7 of 9
three; occasionally (ordinal) third, or (multiple) thrice
Historical Context
The symmetrical entrance (15 cubits on each side of a 20-cubit gate) created a proportioned, welcoming gateway. This design invited approach while maintaining the courtyard's sacred boundaries—access was available but regulated.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the entrance's symmetry illustrate the equal availability of Christ to all people?
- What does an 'orderly' (not chaotic) entrance teach about approaching God with reverence?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The other side of the entrance receives identical treatment—15 cubits of hangings, three pillars, three sockets. The symmetry creates a balanced, dignified entrance, suggesting that God's invitation is orderly, not chaotic. The matching sides show that all who enter do so on equal terms—no side entrance for privileged few, no inferior gate for lesser ones. Christ, the Door, is the same for all—'whosoever will may come' (Revelation 22:17).