Exodus 26:2

The length of one curtain [shall be] eight and twenty cubits, and the breadth of one curtain four cubits: and every one of the curtains shall have one measure.

The length {H753} of one {H259} curtain {H3407} shall be eight {H8083} and twenty {H6242} cubits {H520}, and the breadth {H7341} of one {H259} curtain {H3407} four {H702} cubits {H520}: and every one of the curtains {H3407} shall have one {H259} measure {H4060}.

Each one is to be forty-two feet long and six feet wide; all the sheets are to be the same size.

Each curtain shall be twenty-eight cubits long and four cubits wide—all curtains the same size.

The length of each curtain shall be eight and twenty cubits, and the breadth of each curtain four cubits: all the curtains shall have one measure.

Commentary

Exodus 26:2 provides specific dimensions for the curtains of the Tabernacle, detailing their length and breadth, and emphasizing that all curtains were to be of "one measure." This verse is part of a larger section in Exodus where God gives Moses highly detailed instructions for constructing the portable sanctuary, a central place of worship for the Israelites during their wilderness journey.

Context

This verse is situated within God's comprehensive blueprint for the Tabernacle, the sacred dwelling place for His presence among His people. Chapters 25-31 of Exodus are dedicated entirely to these intricate plans, covering everything from the ark of the covenant to the priestly garments. The curtains mentioned here are likely the innermost coverings of the Tabernacle, made of fine linen with cherubim, described in Exodus 26:1. The precise measurements were crucial for the overall structural integrity and symbolic perfection of the sanctuary, ensuring it was built exactly as God commanded.

Key Themes

  • Divine Precision and Order: The meticulous detail in these instructions underscores God's nature as a God of order, not chaos. Every element of the Tabernacle, down to the exact dimensions of its curtains, was designed with purpose and perfection. This level of detail speaks to the importance of worship and the sacredness of God's presence.
  • Uniformity and Unity: The phrase "every one of the curtains shall have one measure" highlights the demand for consistency and standardization. This ensured a harmonious and unified structure, symbolizing perhaps the unity required in the worship of God and the community of Israel.
  • Holiness and Sacred Space: The exact specifications contributed to the creation of a distinct, holy space set apart for God. The Tabernacle was not built according to human whim but divine command, making it a unique place of encounter between God and man.

Linguistic Insights

The measurement unit "cubit" (Hebrew: ammah) was a common ancient measure, typically defined by the length from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. While its exact modern equivalent varied, it was generally around 18-21 inches (approximately 45-53 centimeters). Thus, a curtain of "eight and twenty cubits" would be roughly 42-49 feet long, and "four cubits" about 6-7 feet wide, indicating substantial pieces of fabric for the Tabernacle's coverings. The emphasis on "one measure" (Hebrew: echad middah) reinforces the concept of exact conformity and divine standard.

Significance and Application

The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle, including the precise measurements of its curtains, reveal several enduring truths. Firstly, God cares about the details. His meticulousness in designing the Tabernacle teaches us that He is also precise in His plans for creation and for our lives. Just as He knew the exact dimensions for His dwelling, He has an intricate plan for His people (Jeremiah 29:11).

Secondly, the Tabernacle, with its perfect design, served as a powerful type or shadow pointing to a greater reality. The Word made flesh, Jesus Christ, "tabernacled" among us, embodying the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity. His perfect life and sacrifice fulfilled the symbolic purposes of the Tabernacle, providing a new and living way to God (Hebrews 9:11-12). The uniformity of the curtains can also remind us of the unity and order God desires within His church, the spiritual temple built of living stones.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Numbers 4:25

    And they shall bear the curtains of the tabernacle, and the tabernacle of the congregation, his covering, and the covering of the badgers' skins that [is] above upon it, and the hanging for the door of the tabernacle of the congregation,

  • 1 Chronicles 17:1

    ¶ Now it came to pass, as David sat in his house, that David said to Nathan the prophet, Lo, I dwell in an house of cedars, but the ark of the covenant of the LORD [remaineth] under curtains.

  • 2 Samuel 7:2

    That the king said unto Nathan the prophet, See now, I dwell in an house of cedar, but the ark of God dwelleth within curtains.

  • Exodus 26:7

    ¶ And thou shalt make curtains [of] goats' [hair] to be a covering upon the tabernacle: eleven curtains shalt thou make.

  • Exodus 26:8

    The length of one curtain [shall be] thirty cubits, and the breadth of one curtain four cubits: and the eleven curtains [shall be all] of one measure.
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