Exodus 36:15

KJV

The length of one curtain [was] thirty cubits, and four cubits [was] the breadth of one curtain: the eleven curtains [were] of one size.

KJV (with Strong's)

The length {H753} of one {H259} curtain {H3407} was thirty {H7970} cubits {H520}, and four {H702} cubits {H520} was the breadth {H7341} of one {H259} curtain {H3407}: the eleven {H6249}{H6240} curtains {H3407} were of one {H259} size {H4060}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Each sheet was forty-five feet long and six feet wide; all eleven sheets were the same size.

Berean Standard Bible

Each of the eleven curtains was the same size—thirty cubits long and four cubits wide.

American Standard Version

The length of each curtain was thirty cubits, and four cubits the breadth of each curtain: the eleven curtains had one measure.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 36:15 details the precise dimensions of the eleven goat-hair curtains intended for the Tabernacle's outermost covering, specifying their exact length and breadth. This verse is part of the narrative describing the meticulous execution of God's divine blueprint by the skilled artisans Bezalel and Aholiab, ensuring that every component of the wilderness sanctuary adhered to the divinely ordained pattern for God's dwelling among His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the detailed account of the Tabernacle's construction, specifically concerning the outer coverings. Following the initial divine commands and architectural specifications given to Moses in [Exodus 25](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25 - Instructions for the Tabernacle") through [Exodus 31](/exodus/31 "Exodus 31 - Appointment of Bezalel and Aholiab"), chapter 36 shifts to the actual fabrication phase. Verses 8-19 describe the making of the Tabernacle's various curtain layers. Specifically, [Exodus 26:7-13](/exodus/26-7-13 "Exodus 26:7-13 - The Goat Hair Curtains") provides the initial instructions for these eleven goat-hair curtains, which formed the second, protective layer over the inner fine linen curtains. Exodus 36:15 confirms the faithful adherence of the craftsmen to these precise dimensions, underscoring the theme of obedience and the divine enablement of human skill in fulfilling God's sacred directives.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Tabernacle served as God's portable dwelling place among the Israelites during their wilderness journey after the [Exodus from Egypt](/exodus/12 "Exodus 12 - The Passover and Exodus"). In the ancient Near East, temples and sacred spaces were often constructed with great precision and symbolic significance, reflecting the perceived order and majesty of the deities. The "cubit" was a standard unit of measurement, typically representing the length from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger, roughly 18-21 inches (45-53 cm). The use of goat hair for these outer curtains was practical for a nomadic people, as it was durable, water-resistant, and readily available. The meticulous detail in the divine instructions, and their equally meticulous execution by craftsmen like Bezalel and Aholiab, who were explicitly "filled with the Spirit of God" for this task (as noted in [Exodus 31:1-6](/exodus/31-1-6 "Exodus 31:1-6 - God Equips Bezalel and Aholiab")), underscored the unique holiness and specific demands of the God of Israel.
* **Key Themes:** This verse, embedded in the Tabernacle's construction narrative, highlights several key themes. Firstly, **Divine Precision and Order** are paramount, as God's detailed instructions for His dwelling place, found throughout [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25-31 "Exodus 25-31 - Tabernacle Instructions"), leave no room for human improvisation, emphasizing His nature as a God of order. Secondly, **Human Obedience and Faithfulness** are showcased by the artisans' meticulous adherence to the divine blueprint, demonstrating that true worship involves diligent execution of God's commands. Thirdly, the theme of **Divine Presence and Holiness** is central, as the Tabernacle's construction ensures a fitting and sacred space for God to dwell among His people, setting Israel apart. Finally, the **Divine Enablement of Human Skill** is evident, as craftsmen like Bezalel and Aholiab are supernaturally gifted to fulfill these intricate tasks, as seen in [Exodus 31:1-6](/exodus/31-1-6 "Exodus 31:1-6 - God Equips Bezalel and Aholiab"), underscoring that God equips those He calls for His service.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Cubits (Hebrew, _ʼammâh'_):** This term (H520) refers to the primary unit of linear measurement in ancient Israel, derived from the forearm. Its consistent use throughout the Tabernacle instructions emphasizes the precise, divinely ordained dimensions for every component, leaving no room for human improvisation in the construction of God's dwelling. The exactitude highlights God's demand for order and perfection in worship.
* **Curtain (Hebrew, _yᵉrîyʻâh'_):** This term (H3407) specifically refers to the large fabric panels used for the Tabernacle's coverings. In this context, it denotes the eleven goat-hair curtains that formed the second, outer layer of the sanctuary. The repetition of "one curtain" and "the eleven curtains" underscores their individual integrity while also stressing their collective uniformity, essential for creating a seamless and protective enclosure.
* **Size (Hebrew, _middâh'_):** This term (H4060) denotes the extension, height, or breadth of an object, referring to its specific measurement or standard. In this verse, it emphasizes the absolute uniformity of all eleven curtains, ensuring they were precisely identical. This consistency was crucial for their seamless joining and proper function as a protective covering for the Tabernacle, highlighting God's demand for precision and order in sacred work.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The length of one curtain [was] thirty cubits":** This clause specifies the vertical dimension of each individual goat-hair curtain. At approximately 45-53 cm per cubit, this translates to a length of roughly 13.5 to 15.9 meters (44-52 feet), indicating substantial fabric panels designed to drape over the Tabernacle frame.
* **"and four cubits [was] the breadth of one curtain":** This clause provides the horizontal dimension of each curtain. At approximately 1.8 to 2.1 meters (6-7 feet) wide, these panels, when sewn together, would form the extensive covering. The precise measurements highlight the engineering required to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing structure.
* **"the eleven curtains [were] of one size":** This crucial phrase emphasizes the absolute uniformity of all eleven curtains. This consistency was vital for the curtains to be joined together seamlessly (as described in [Exodus 26:9](/exodus/26-9 "Exodus 26:9 - Joining the Tabernacle Curtains")), ensuring a snug and protective fit over the Tabernacle. It speaks to the divine principle of order and the necessity of precision in sacred work.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Precision** and **Repetition** to convey its message. The exact numerical specifications ("thirty cubits," "four cubits," "eleven curtains," "one size") are a form of precision, emphasizing the meticulous nature of the divine blueprint and the faithful execution by the artisans. This precision elevates the act of construction from mere craftsmanship to a sacred task, reflecting the divine attribute of order. The repetition of "one curtain" and the collective "eleven curtains" reinforces the uniformity and individual importance of each component. Furthermore, the overall narrative of the Tabernacle's construction, of which this verse is a part, functions as an extended **Symbolism**, where every detail, including the dimensions of the curtains, points to deeper theological truths about God's character, His presence, and the path to His holiness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 36:15, with its emphasis on precise measurements and uniformity, underscores the divine demand for order, exactness, and faithfulness in all matters pertaining to God's worship and dwelling. This meticulous attention to detail in the Tabernacle's construction reflects God's own character—a God of order, beauty, and intentionality, who is not haphazard in His dealings with humanity. It teaches that even seemingly minute details in our service and obedience are significant in His eyes, contributing to the overall integrity and function of His sacred purposes. The uniformity of the curtains also foreshadows the unity and cohesion required within God's people, where each part, though distinct, functions in harmony to fulfill a collective purpose.
* [Exodus 25:9](/exodus/25-9 "Exodus 25:9 - Build According to the Pattern")
* [1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God is a God of Order")
* [Ephesians 4:16](/ephesians/4-16 "Ephesians 4:16 - The Body Built Up in Love")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous detail in Exodus 36:15 serves as a profound reminder that God cares about the specifics. Just as every cubit and every curtain was essential for the Tabernacle's integrity and function, so too are the seemingly small acts of obedience, faithfulness, and service in our lives. This verse challenges us to consider the quality and intentionality of our spiritual walk and our contributions to the body of Christ. Are we striving for excellence and precision in our devotion, knowing that even the smallest details contribute to the larger picture of God's kingdom? The uniformity of the curtains also speaks to the importance of unity and cohesion within the church. Each believer, like each curtain, has a unique purpose and dimension, yet we are called to be "of one size" in our commitment to Christ and to one another, fitting together seamlessly to form a dwelling place for God's Spirit. This calls for humility, cooperation, and a shared vision for God's glory.
#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or service do you tend to overlook "small" details, and how might a greater attention to precision honor God?**
* **How does the uniformity of the Tabernacle curtains speak to the importance of unity and consistency within the church today?**
* **What does this verse teach us about God's character and His expectations for His people's worship and service?**

### FAQ
**What was the purpose of the eleven curtains mentioned in Exodus 36:15?**

Answer: The eleven curtains described in [Exodus 36:15](/exodus/36-15 "Exodus 36:15 - Dimensions of the Tabernacle Curtains") were specifically the outer covering for the Tabernacle, made of goat hair. As detailed in [Exodus 26:7-13](/exodus/26-7-13 "Exodus 26:7-13 - Instructions for the Goat Hair Curtains"), these curtains formed the second layer of the sanctuary's roof, providing protection from the elements and contributing to the overall structure. They were designed to be joined together to form a single, large tent-like covering, ensuring the sacred space was properly enclosed and shielded.

**Why were the dimensions so specific, and what does "cubit" mean?**

Answer: The dimensions were divinely ordained and highly specific because the Tabernacle was God's dwelling place, and every detail was meant to reflect His holiness, order, and precise instructions. This emphasis on exactness underscored the seriousness and sacredness of the work. A "cubit" was an ancient unit of measurement, typically based on the length of a forearm from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. While its exact modern equivalent varied slightly by region and time, it was generally around 18-21 inches (approximately 45-53 centimeters). The consistency of this measurement across all eleven curtains, as stated in [Exodus 36:15](/exodus/36-15 "Exodus 36:15 - Uniformity of Tabernacle Curtains"), was crucial for their proper assembly and the structural integrity of the Tabernacle.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 36:15, with its emphasis on the precise construction and uniformity of the Tabernacle curtains, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle, as God's dwelling place among His people, was a temporary shadow pointing to the permanent reality of God's presence. Just as the curtains provided a covering and defined the sacred space, Christ is the ultimate "covering" for humanity, offering protection and access to God. His perfect obedience to the Father's divine blueprint, from His incarnation to His atoning death, mirrors the meticulous adherence of the artisans to the Tabernacle's specifications. He is the perfectly "sized" and "uniform" Lamb of God, whose sacrifice flawlessly fulfills every detail of God's redemptive plan (cf. [Hebrews 10:1-10](/hebrews/10-1-10 "Hebrews 10:1-10 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). Moreover, Christ Himself is the true temple, the dwelling place of God among us, as [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh") declares, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." Through Him, believers become part of a spiritual temple, "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone" ([Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Christ the Cornerstone")). The unity and "one size" of the curtains prefigure the unity of believers in Christ, forming His body, the church, where each member, perfectly fitted, contributes to the whole, becoming a dwelling in which God lives by His Spirit ([Ephesians 2:21-22](/ephesians/2-21-22 "Ephesians 2:21-22 - A Holy Temple in the Lord")).

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.