(The Lord speaking is red text)
And he made an hanging for the tabernacle door [of] blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, of needlework;
For the entrance to the tent he made a screen of blue, purple and scarlet yarn and finely woven linen, in colors, the work of a weaver;
For the entrance to the tent, he made a curtain embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen,
And he made a screen for the door of the Tent, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, the work of the embroiderer;
And he made{H6213} an hanging{H4539} for the tabernacle{H168} door{H6607} of blue{H8504}, and purple{H713}, and scarlet{H8144}{H8438}, and fine twined{H7806} linen{H8336}, of needlework{H7551}{H4639};
1. **Themes:**
- **Divine Instruction and Craftsmanship:** The verse reflects the meticulous and skillful craftsmanship involved in creating the Tabernacle, following God's explicit instructions. The emphasis is on the beauty and holiness of the materials and workmanship, which symbolize the sanctity of the space where God would dwell among the Israelites.
- **Symbolism of Colors:** The colors blue, purple, and scarlet are often associated with royalty and divinity in the ancient world. Blue represents the heavens, purple signifies royalty, and scarlet may symbolize the blood of sacrifices. These colors, along with the fine white linen, are recurring in the Tabernacle's design, highlighting its sacred purpose.
- **Needlework as an Act of Worship:** The detailed needlework indicates that every aspect of the Tabernacle's construction was an act of worship and devotion. The care and skill put into the hanging for the tabernacle door show reverence for God and the sacred space.
2. **Historical Context:**
- **The Exodus Era:** Exodus 36:37 is set during the time of Moses, after the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and while they are wandering in the Sinai Desert. This period is characterized by the establishment of the covenant between God and Israel, with the Tabernacle serving as the center of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence.
- **The Construction of the Tabernacle:** The verse is part of the detailed description of the Tabernacle's construction, which occupies much of the latter half of the Book of Exodus. The Israelites, filled with generosity and enthusiasm, contribute materials and skills for the project, which is overseen by Bezalel and Oholiab, two artisans appointed by God.
- **Cultic Significance:** The Tabernacle was the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites before the establishment of the Temple in Jerusalem. It was designed to be movable, allowing the rituals and worship practices to continue as the people journeyed through the wilderness.
In summary, Exodus 36:37 reflects the intricate and divinely inspired craftsmanship of the Tabernacle, with a focus on the symbolic significance of materials and colors. It underscores the importance of the Tabernacle as a sacred space for worship and God's presence among the Israelites during their journey to the Promised Land.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)