Exodus 26:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 26:31
31 And thou shalt make a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen of cunning work: with cherubims shall it be made:
Chapter Context
Exodus 26 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, love, truth. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-37: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 26:31
31 And thou shalt make a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen of cunning work: with cherubims shall it be made:
Analysis
The veil (פָּרֹכֶת, paroketh) of blue, purple, scarlet, and fine linen with cherubim separates Holy Place from Most Holy. This veil represents Christ's flesh (Hebrews 10:19-20)—His humanity that both revealed God and separated man from direct access until His death. The cherubim woven into it show that the way to God's throne passes through holiness' guardians. When Christ died, this veil tore (Matthew 27:51), opening access.
Historical Context
This veil hung on the four pillars (v.32), creating an impenetrable barrier before the ark. Only the high priest could pass through, once yearly on Yom Kippur (Leviticus 16), representing Christ who would enter heaven itself for us.
Reflection
- How did Christ's flesh both reveal God and limit access until His death?
- What did the veil's tearing at Christ's death accomplish for your access to God?
Cross-References
- Creation: Exodus 36:8, 36:35, 2 Chronicles 3:14
- Parallel theme: Exodus 26:1, Leviticus 16:2, Matthew 27:51