Exodus 38:16
All the hangings of the court round about were of fine twined linen.
Original Language Analysis
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
1 of 6
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
קַלְעֵ֧י
All the hangings
H7050
קַלְעֵ֧י
All the hangings
Strong's:
H7050
Word #:
2 of 6
a (door) screen (as if slung across), or the valve (of the door) itself
הֶֽחָצֵ֛ר
of the court
H2691
הֶֽחָצֵ֛ר
of the court
Strong's:
H2691
Word #:
3 of 6
a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)
סָבִ֖יב
round about
H5439
סָבִ֖יב
round about
Strong's:
H5439
Word #:
4 of 6
(as noun) a circle, neighbour, or environs; but chiefly (as adverb, with or without preposition) around
Historical Context
The twenty-cubit gate, taller and more ornate than surrounding curtains, created focal point drawing eyes and footsteps toward proper entrance. The embroidered colors matched interior tabernacle curtains, giving those entering preview of glory within. This artistic entrance proclaimed both exclusivity (one door) and welcome (beautiful, prominent design).
Questions for Reflection
- What do the four colors in the gate teach about elements necessary for approaching God (heaven, royalty, sacrifice, purity)?
- How does the gate's beauty and prominence illustrate that God's accessibility should be evident and attractive?
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Analysis & Commentary
The gate of the court (שַׁעַר הֶחָצֵר, sha'ar he-chatzer) at twenty cubits (approximately 30 feet) of needlework (מַעֲשֵׂה רֹקֵם, ma'aseh rokem—'embroiderer's work') in blue, purple, scarlet, and fine linen demonstrates that entrance to God's dwelling combines beauty and specificity. The colorful, artistic gate contrasts with plain white surrounding curtains, making entrance obvious and attractive—teaching that God's accessibility should be evident and inviting. The four colors represent heaven (blue), royalty (purple), sacrifice (scarlet), and purity (white linen)—all elements necessary for approaching God, all fulfilled in Christ.