Exodus 27:18

KJV

The length of the court [shall be] an hundred cubits, and the breadth fifty every where, and the height five cubits [of] fine twined linen, and their sockets [of] brass.

KJV (with Strong's)

The length {H753} of the court {H2691} shall be an hundred {H3967} cubits {H520}, and the breadth {H7341} fifty {H2572} every where {H2572}, and the height {H6967} five {H2568} cubits {H520} of fine twined {H7806} linen {H8336}, and their sockets {H134} of brass {H5178}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The length of the courtyard is to be 150 feet and the width seventy-five feet everywhere; with the height seven-and-a-half feet. The tapestries and screen are to be of finely woven linen, and the sockets are to be of bronze.

Berean Standard Bible

The entire courtyard shall be a hundred cubits long and fifty cubits wide, with curtains of finely spun linen five cubits high, and with bronze bases.

American Standard Version

The length of the court shall be a hundred cubits, and the breadth fifty every where, and the height five cubits, of fine twined linen, and their sockets of brass.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 27:18 meticulously details the precise dimensions and primary materials for the courtyard surrounding the Tabernacle, emphasizing God's demand for order, holiness, and the careful delineation of sacred space. This verse highlights the divine precision inherent in God's instructions for His dwelling among the Israelites, establishing a physical boundary that visually communicated the separation between the holy and the common, and foreshadowed the foundational principles of purity and atonement necessary for approaching a holy God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a larger, highly detailed section of Exodus (chapters 25-31 and 35-40) dedicated to the construction of the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priestly garments. Specifically, [Exodus 27:9-17](/exodus/27-9-17 "Exodus 27:9-17 - The Tabernacle Court Hangings, Pillars, and Bases") describes the individual components of the court's enclosure, including its hangings, pillars, and their bases. Verse 18 serves as a summarizing statement, consolidating the overall dimensions (length, breadth, height) and specifying the primary materials for these surrounding walls. It provides the overarching framework for the court, which served as the outer boundary for the sacred Tent of Meeting and the [altar of burnt offering](/exodus/27-1 "Exodus 27:1 - The Altar of Burnt Offering"), thereby establishing a distinct, consecrated zone within the Israelite camp. This architectural precision underscores the divine blueprint for God's presence among His people, ensuring every detail contributes to the overall purpose of facilitating holy communion.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Tabernacle, including its court, was designed for the Israelites during their nomadic journey through the wilderness. In the ancient Near East, temples and sacred spaces were often constructed with precise dimensions and specific materials, reflecting cosmological order and the perceived nature of the deity. For Israel, the Tabernacle's court created a tangible, visible boundary that distinguished God's holy presence from the common, profane space of the camp. This was crucial for a people learning about the absolute holiness of Yahweh and their unique identity as His covenant nation, set apart from the surrounding pagan cultures. The court's enclosure served as a constant visual reminder of God's transcendence and the necessity of approaching Him on His terms, emphasizing the concept of separation and sanctification vital for their spiritual formation and their understanding of God's unique character amidst a polytheistic world.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 27:18 contributes significantly to several key themes pervasive in the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Presence and Dwelling**, as the Tabernacle was God's chosen means of dwelling among His people ([Exodus 25:8](/exodus/25-8 "Exodus 25:8 - Let Them Make Me a Sanctuary")). The court's meticulous design underscores the theme of **Holiness and Separation**, emphasizing that God is utterly distinct from His creation and that access to His presence requires a divinely ordained pathway and a state of ritual purity ([Leviticus 11:44](/leviticus/11-44 "Leviticus 11:44 - Be Holy, for I Am Holy")). Furthermore, the precise measurements and specific materials highlight **Divine Order and Authority**, demonstrating that God's will is sovereign and His commands are to be followed with exactitude. Finally, the court's function as the primary space for sacrifice and atonement points to the overarching theme of **Redemption and Reconciliation**, setting the stage for the sacrificial system that enabled a sinful people to approach a holy God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Court (Hebrew, _châtsêr'_ H2691):** This term refers to an enclosed yard or open space, specifically the outer enclosure of the Tabernacle. In this context, it designates the sacred precinct that separated the Tent of Meeting and the altar from the common camp. The court served as the primary area where the Israelites could bring their sacrifices and participate in the rituals of atonement and worship. Its very existence as an enclosed space underscored the concept of separation and the sacredness of God's dwelling.
* **Linen (Hebrew, _shêsh'_ H8336):** Derived from a root meaning "to bleach," _shêsh_ denotes fine, white, bleached linen. This material was highly valued and was used for priestly garments and sacred furnishings throughout the Tabernacle. Symbolically, fine linen consistently represents purity, righteousness, and divine splendor in biblical literature (e.g., [Exodus 28:6](/exodus/28-6 "Exodus 28:6 - Priestly Garments of Fine Linen"), [Revelation 19:8](/revelation/19-8 "Revelation 19:8 - Righteousness of Saints in Fine Linen")). Its use for the court hangings visually communicated the absolute holiness of God and the moral purity required for those who sought to approach Him.
* **Brass (Hebrew, _nᵉchôsheth'_ H5178):** This term refers to copper or, more commonly in biblical contexts, bronze (an alloy of copper and tin). It is known for its durability and strength. In the Tabernacle, brass was prominently used for the altar of burnt offering ([Exodus 27:1](/exodus/27-1 "Exodus 27:1 - Altar of Burnt Offering")) and the laver ([Exodus 30:18](/exodus/30-18 "Exodus 30:18 - Bronze Laver")), both associated with purification and atonement. The brass sockets (H134, _ʼeden_, meaning "basis" or "foundation") for the court pillars provided structural stability. Symbolically, brass is often associated with divine judgment and the enduring nature of God's righteous decrees. Its foundational use here subtly points to the reality that access to God's holy presence is firmly grounded in the necessity of judgment for sin and the provision of atonement.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The length of the court [shall be] an hundred cubits, and the breadth fifty every where":** This clause provides the precise horizontal dimensions of the Tabernacle courtyard. At 100 cubits long (approximately 150 feet or 45 meters) and 50 cubits wide (approximately 75 feet or 22.5 meters), these measurements describe a substantial, rectangular enclosure. The phrase "every where" (or "in every place") emphasizes the uniform breadth, underscoring the divine precision and order in God's design. These dimensions created a large, clearly defined sacred space, setting it apart from the surrounding camp and providing ample room for the various sacrificial and priestly activities necessary for Israel's worship.
* **"and the height five cubits [of] fine twined linen":** This detail specifies the vertical dimension of the court's surrounding walls. These walls were constructed from hangings of "fine twined linen," which stood at a height of five cubits (approximately 7.5 feet or 2.25 meters). This height created a significant visual barrier, preventing casual viewing into the sacred space and reinforcing the idea of separation and restricted access. The purity of the linen visually represented the holiness of the God who dwelt within and the spiritual cleanliness required for entry, emphasizing the sanctity of the Tabernacle precinct.
* **"and their sockets [of] brass":** This final phrase refers to the bases into which the pillars supporting the linen hangings were set. These sockets, made of durable brass, provided the foundational stability for the entire court enclosure, ensuring the structure's integrity even in a nomadic setting. Symbolically, the use of brass, a material associated with judgment and the altar of burnt offering, suggests that the very foundation of access to God's holy presence was grounded in the reality of divine judgment and the provision of atonement through sacrifice. The purity of the linen hangings, representing God's holiness, was thus supported by the strength and redemptive implications of brass.

#### Literary Devices
The description of the Tabernacle court in Exodus 27:18 is rich in **Symbolism**. The precise **dimensions** (100x50x5 cubits) symbolize divine order, meticulous planning, and the intentional creation of a defined sacred space for God's dwelling. This numerical precision speaks to God's sovereignty and His desire for an ordered relationship with His people. The **fine twined linen** used for the hangings is a powerful symbol of purity, righteousness, and holiness, visually representing the moral and spiritual cleanliness of God and the standard required for those who would approach Him. The **brass** sockets, foundational to the structure, symbolize strength, durability, and, significantly, divine judgment and atonement, especially when considered in conjunction with the brass altar of burnt offering. The entire structure, therefore, functions as an extended **metaphor** for the principles of God's character and the means of reconciliation. Furthermore, the court itself, by its very existence and design, creates a stark **contrast** between the holy and the common, the accessible and the restricted, serving as a pedagogical tool to teach Israel about the nature of their God and their unique calling to be a holy nation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The meticulous instructions for the Tabernacle court in Exodus 27:18 underscore several profound theological truths. Firstly, God is a God of order and precision; His dwelling place, even in its outer boundaries, was not left to human discretion but was divinely ordained, reflecting His perfect nature. Secondly, the court's dimensions and materials powerfully communicate the concept of God's absolute holiness and the necessary separation between His sacred presence and the common, sinful world. The high linen walls created a visual barrier, signifying that access to God is not casual but requires specific, divinely appointed means. This principle of separation and sanctification is foundational to understanding God's character and His relationship with humanity. The symbolism of the materials—pure linen and durable brass—foreshadows the righteousness and sacrificial atonement that would ultimately provide true access to God.

* [Hebrews 8:5](/hebrews/8-5 "Hebrews 8:5 - Heavenly Pattern of the Tabernacle")
* [Leviticus 11:44](/leviticus/11-44 "Leviticus 11:44 - Be Holy, for I Am Holy")
* [1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15-16 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Call to Holiness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 27:18, with its emphasis on precise dimensions and symbolic materials for the Tabernacle court, offers profound insights for contemporary believers. While we no longer approach God through a physical Tabernacle, the underlying principles of divine order, holiness, and intentionality remain paramount. This verse reminds us that God desires order and purpose in our lives and worship. Just as the court delineated sacred space, our lives, as temples of the Holy Spirit, are called to be set apart for God's purposes. The purity symbolized by the fine linen challenges us to pursue holiness in thought, word, and deed, reflecting Christ's righteousness. The foundational brass, pointing to judgment and atonement, reminds us that our access to God is always grounded in the finished work of Christ on the cross. Therefore, we are called to live with intentionality, recognizing the sacredness of our calling and the profound privilege of direct access to God through our Savior, allowing His order and holiness to permeate every aspect of our existence, transforming us into living sanctuaries for His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the precision of God's instructions for the Tabernacle court challenge our approach to worship and obedience today?**
* **In what ways does the concept of "separation" as depicted by the court's boundaries apply to a believer's life in the modern world?**
* **Considering the symbolism of fine linen and brass, what does this verse teach us about the foundation and character of a life lived for God?**

### FAQ
**Why were the dimensions of the Tabernacle court so specific?**

Answer: The specific dimensions (100 cubits long, 50 cubits wide, 5 cubits high) underscore God's absolute precision and His demand for order in all things related to His worship and presence. These exact measurements were not arbitrary but were part of a divine blueprint, symbolizing God's perfect design and control. They served a practical purpose in defining the sacred space, setting it apart from the common camp, and ensuring uniformity in the construction of the portable sanctuary. The precision also foreshadows the meticulous nature of God's redemptive plan, where every detail is purposeful and contributes to His ultimate design for humanity's reconciliation with Him.

**What is the significance of "fine twined linen" and "brass" as materials for the court?**

Answer: Both materials carry significant symbolic weight. "Fine twined linen" consistently represents purity, righteousness, and holiness in Scripture. Its use for the court hangings visually communicated the spotless character of God and the moral purity required to approach Him. "Brass" (bronze) is associated with strength, durability, and, notably, divine judgment and atonement. Given that the altar of burnt offering was also made of brass ([Exodus 27:1](/exodus/27-1 "Exodus 27:1 - Altar of Burnt Offering")), its use for the sockets of the court pillars suggests that access to God's holy presence is firmly grounded in the reality of sin's judgment and the provision of atonement. Together, they symbolize the foundational elements of approaching a holy God: purity and propitiation.

**Does this verse have any relevance for New Testament believers?**

Answer: Absolutely. While the physical Tabernacle no longer exists, the spiritual principles it embodied are profoundly relevant. The Tabernacle court's design teaches us about God's unchanging holiness, His desire for order in our lives, and the necessity of separation from the world for His purposes ([2 Corinthians 6:17](/2_corinthians/6-17 "2 Corinthians 6:17 - Come Out From Among Them")). Moreover, the court's limited access and the symbolism of its materials point to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the "new and living way" to God ([Hebrews 10:20](/hebrews/10-20 "Hebrews 10:20 - The New and Living Way")), embodying the purity (fine linen) and bearing the judgment (brass) necessary for our reconciliation. Thus, the principles of holiness, access, and divine order continue to shape Christian life and worship, reminding us of the profound privilege and responsibility of our relationship with God through Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 27:18, with its precise dimensions and symbolic materials for the Tabernacle court, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The court's defined boundaries and single gate, which was the only point of entry, perfectly foreshadow Christ as the [exclusive way to the Father](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life"). He declared, "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved" ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus, the Door")). The "fine twined linen" of the court hangings, symbolizing purity and righteousness, is perfectly embodied in Jesus, who was [without sin](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our Sinless High Priest") and became our righteousness ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Our Righteousness")). The "brass" sockets, foundational to the structure and associated with judgment and atonement (like the brass altar of burnt offering), are fulfilled in Christ's sacrificial death on the cross, where He bore the full weight of divine judgment for our sins ([Romans 3:25](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25 - Christ Our Propitiation")). Through His perfect life and atoning death, Christ has opened a [new and living way](/hebrews/10-19 "Hebrews 10:19 - Bold Access to the Holiest") into the very presence of God, dismantling the physical barriers of the old covenant and inviting believers to draw near with confidence to the [throne of grace](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Bold Access to the Throne of Grace") through Him, our Great High Priest.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.