(The Lord speaking is red text)
And the remnant that remaineth of the curtains of the tent, the half curtain that remaineth, shall hang over the backside of the tabernacle.
As for the overhanging part that remains of the sheets forming the tent, the half-sheet remaining is to hang over the back of the tabernacle;
As for the overlap that remains of the tent curtains, the half curtain that is left over shall hang down over the back of the tabernacle.
And the overhanging part that remaineth of the curtains of the tent, the half curtain that remaineth, shall hang over the back of the tabernacle.
And the remnant{H5629} that remaineth{H5736} of the curtains{H3407} of the tent{H168}, the half{H2677} curtain{H3407} that remaineth{H5736}, shall hang{H5628} over the backside{H268} of the tabernacle{H4908}.
1. **Themes:**
- **Divine Precision:** The verse reflects the meticulous instructions given by God for the construction of the tabernacle, emphasizing that every part of the sacred space was planned and had a purpose.
- **Covering and Protection:** The curtains were to provide covering for the tabernacle, symbolizing protection and separation from the secular world, reinforcing the holy nature of the sanctuary.
- **Utilization of Resources:** The use of the remnant or leftover material for the backside of the tabernacle indicates a principle of resourcefulness and stewardship, ensuring that nothing is wasted.
- **Completeness and Inclusivity:** The mention of the "remnant" suggests that every part of the community's contribution is valuable and has a role in the construction of the divine dwelling place.
2. **Historical Context:**
- **The Exodus Era:** Exodus 26:12 is set during the time when the Israelites were wandering in the wilderness after their escape from slavery in Egypt. God commanded Moses to build a tabernacle, a portable sanctuary, where God's presence would dwell among the people.
- **The Tabernacle's Construction:** The book of Exodus provides detailed instructions for the construction of the tabernacle, including its structure, materials, and furnishings. This verse is part of those detailed instructions, focusing on the coverings of the tent.
- **Cultic Significance:** The tabernacle was central to Israel's worship and religious life. It was the place where God met with Moses and the priests performed sacred rituals, including sacrifices and other forms of worship.
- **Symbolism of the Curtains:** The curtains, made of fine linen and colored yarns, were both functional and symbolic. They not only sheltered the tabernacle but also represented the separation between the holy God and the sinful people, a theme that would later be echoed in the temple veil.
In summary, Exodus 26:12 reflects the detailed planning of the tabernacle's construction, emphasizing the sanctity and orderliness of the sacred space, while also highlighting themes of resourcefulness and inclusivity within the Israelite community during their journey in the wilderness.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)