(The Lord speaking is red text)
And he made loops of blue on the edge of one curtain from the selvedge in the coupling: likewise he made in the uttermost side of [another] curtain, in the coupling of the second.
He made loops of blue on the edge of the outermost sheet in the first set and did the same on the edge of the outermost sheet in the second set.
He made loops of blue material on the edge of the end curtain in the first set, and also on the end curtain in the second set.
And he made loops of blue upon the edge of the one curtain from the selvedge in the coupling: likewise he made in the edge of the curtain that was outmost in the second coupling.
And he made{H6213} loops{H3924} of blue{H8504} on the edge{H8193} of one{H259} curtain{H3407} from the selvedge{H7098} in the coupling{H4225}: likewise he made{H6213} in the uttermost{H7020} side{H8193} of another curtain{H3407}, in the coupling{H4225} of the second{H8145}.
1. **Themes:**
- **Divine Instruction and Craftsmanship:** The verse reflects the meticulous adherence to divine instructions given to Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of precision and excellence in worship.
- **Unity and Connection:** The loops and couplings symbolize the unity of the people of Israel and their connection to God, as well as the interconnectedness of the various parts of the Tabernacle itself.
- **Holiness and Aesthetics:** The use of blue, a color often associated with divinity in the Bible, underscores the sanctity of the space and the aesthetic aspect of worship.
2. **Historical Context:**
- **The Exodus Era:** Exodus 36:11 is set during the time of the Israelites' wandering in the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. This period is characterized by the establishment of the Mosaic Law and the formation of Israel's religious identity.
- **Tabernacle Construction:** The verse is part of the detailed account of the Tabernacle's construction, which was to serve as the portable dwelling place for God among His people. The Tabernacle was to be a visual representation of God's presence and a model for worship until the establishment of the Temple in Jerusalem.
- **Skilled Work:** Bezalel and Oholiab, along with other skilled workers, were appointed by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings according to the pattern shown to Moses on Mount Sinai. This verse highlights the technical aspects of the work, such as the making of loops and couplings for the curtains.
- **Covenantal Faithfulness:** The careful construction of the Tabernacle according to God's specifications was an act of covenantal faithfulness on the part of the Israelites, demonstrating their commitment to God and His commandments.
In summary, Exodus 36:11 is a microcosm of the broader narrative of the Israelites' journey towards nationhood under God's guidance, with the Tabernacle serving as a central symbol of their faith and practice. The verse illustrates the intricate details of the Tabernacle's construction, which were not only practical but also rich in symbolic meaning.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)