Exodus 36:35

Translation
King James Version
¶ And he made a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: with cherubims made he it of cunning work.
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KJV (with Strong's)
And he made H6213 a vail H6532 of blue H8504, and purple H713, and scarlet H8144 H8438, and fine twined H7806 linen H8336: with cherubims H3742 made H6213 he it of cunning H2803 work H4639.
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Complete Jewish Bible
He made the curtain of blue, purple and scarlet yarn and finely woven linen. He made them with k'ruvim worked in that had been crafted by a skilled artisan.
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Berean Standard Bible
Next, he made the veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, with cherubim skillfully worked into it.
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American Standard Version
And he made the veil of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: with cherubim, the work of the skilful workman, made he it.
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World English Bible Messianic
He made the veil of blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen: with cherubim. He made it the work of a skillful workman.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
Moreouer he made a vaile of blew silke, and purple, and of skarlet, and of fine twined linen: with Cherubims of broydred worke made he it:
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Young's Literal Translation
And he maketh the vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and twined linen, work of a designer he hath made it, with cherubs;
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See also
Matthew 27:51Hebrews 10:20Exodus 30:6Exodus 26:31Exodus 26:37Exodus 40:21
See on the biblical-era map
The Kingdom of Egypt in the Time of Moses
The Kingdom of Egypt in the Time of Moses View full PDF
Building Plan: The Tabernacle
Building Plan: The Tabernacle View full PDF

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In the KJVVerse 2,602 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Exodus 36:35 provides a meticulous account of the creation of the Tabernacle's inner veil, a divinely mandated barrier crafted from the most exquisite materials and intricately adorned with cherubim. This verse underscores the unparalleled skill and divine inspiration bestowed upon Bezalel and Oholiab, who faithfully executed God's precise blueprint. The veil's construction was pivotal, establishing the crucial separation between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place, thereby profoundly emphasizing the transcendent holiness of God and the sacred, yet restricted, nature of His dwelling among His people.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: Exodus 36:35 is situated within the broader narrative of the Tabernacle's construction, spanning Exodus 35-40. This section serves as the fulfillment of the detailed instructions God had previously given to Moses on Mount Sinai, particularly in Exodus 26:31-33. The meticulous recounting of the Tabernacle's assembly demonstrates the Israelites' obedience and the divine enablement of the craftsmen, notably Bezalel and Oholiab, who were explicitly "filled with the Spirit of God, with skill, with intelligence, with knowledge, and with all craftsmanship" (Exodus 35:31). The veil, or parokhet, represents the ultimate internal barrier within the Tabernacle, demarcating the common access of the Holy Place from the exclusive sanctity of the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant resided and God's glorious presence uniquely manifested. Thus, this verse is far more than a technical description; it is a testament to the precise, sacred, and divinely inspired nature of God's dwelling place.

  • Historical & Cultural Context: In the ancient Near East, temples and sacred precincts commonly featured inner sanctums, often accessible only to priests or royalty. However, the Israelite Tabernacle stood unique due to the absolute holiness of the God it housed and the specific, divinely ordained separation it enforced. The veil served as a tangible representation of God's transcendent purity and the inherent sinfulness of humanity, which created an impassable chasm. Access to the Most Holy Place, the dwelling of the Shekinah glory, was strictly limited to the High Priest, and then only once a year on the Day of Atonement, or Yom Kippur (Leviticus 16:2). This annual ritual, involving blood sacrifice, profoundly highlighted the severe consequences of sin and the absolute necessity of divine provision for reconciliation. The materials chosen—blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen—were not merely luxurious but carried deep symbolic weight within the ancient world, often associated with royalty, divinity, and purity, all of which pointed to the majestic and holy nature of the God of Israel. The presence of cherubim, celestial beings often depicted as guardians of God's holiness, further emphasized the guarded sanctity, reminiscent of their role guarding the way to the tree of life after humanity's fall (Genesis 3:24).

  • Key Themes: Exodus 36:35 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of Divine Holiness and Transcendence, where the veil physically embodies the unapproachable nature of God apart from His gracious provision. This leads directly to the theme of Separation and Atonement, as the barrier underscores the profound chasm between a holy God and sinful humanity, necessitating a system of mediation and sacrifice for reconciliation, a theme extensively developed in Leviticus. The verse also highlights Divine Mandate and Human Obedience, showcasing the meticulous adherence of the craftsmen to God's precise instructions (Exodus 25:9). Furthermore, the "cunning work" speaks to the theme of Divine Enablement and Skill, demonstrating that God equips His people with the abilities necessary to fulfill His purposes (Exodus 31:3-5). Finally, the veil, as a temporary barrier, subtly introduces the theme of Foreshadowing, hinting at a future, ultimate means by which this separation would be permanently overcome, a concept more fully revealed in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Hebrews.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Vail (Hebrew, pôreketh', H6532): This term (H6532) specifically refers to the thick, inner curtain that served as the primary divider between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place within the Tabernacle and later the Temple. It was not merely a decorative curtain but a functional, divinely commanded "separatrix" that symbolized the absolute holiness of God and the necessary separation between a sinful humanity and a perfect Deity. Its presence made direct access to God's immediate presence impossible for ordinary people, underscoring the need for mediation.
  • Cunning (Hebrew, châshab', H2803): Derived from the primitive root (H2803) meaning "to plait or interpenetrate," this word here describes the work of an "inventive designer" or "skillful craftsman." It implies a highly intricate, artistic, and intelligent process, far beyond simple weaving or embroidery. In the context of the veil, it means the cherubim were not merely appliquéd but were meticulously woven directly into the fabric itself, requiring exceptional skill, forethought, and precision. This term emphasizes that the Tabernacle's construction was not merely human labor but divinely inspired artistry, reflecting the excellence and glory of God.
  • Cherubims (Hebrew, kᵉrûwb', H3742): This term (H3742) refers to a class of celestial beings, often depicted as guardians of God's holiness and presence. Their presence on the veil recalled their role in guarding the Garden of Eden after humanity's fall (Genesis 3:24), reinforcing the idea that access to God's immediate presence was restricted due to sin. The intricate weaving of these figures into the veil visually communicated the guarded sanctity of the Most Holy Place and the profound reverence due to the divine presence within.

Verse Breakdown

  • "And he made a vail": This clause refers to Bezalel, the chief craftsman, acting under divine instruction and enablement. The making of the veil was a pivotal step in completing the Tabernacle, establishing the ultimate boundary within God's dwelling place. It signifies the transition from the general sacredness of the Holy Place to the intensely holy, restricted presence of God in the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant and the Mercy Seat resided.
  • "[of] blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen": The materials chosen were of the highest quality and deeply symbolic. Blue (Hebrew: tekhelet) often represented the heavens, God's divine, heavenly nature, and His omnipresence. Purple (Hebrew: argaman) was a color of royalty and majesty, signifying God's kingship, sovereignty, and supreme authority. Scarlet (Hebrew: shani or tola'at shani) was associated with blood, life, and atonement, foreshadowing the sacrificial system necessary to approach a holy God. Fine twined linen (Hebrew: shesh mashzar) symbolized purity, righteousness, and the holiness required for divine encounter. The combination of these rich colors and pristine material spoke volumes about the character and attributes of the God who would dwell there.
  • "[with] cherubims made he it of cunning work": The cherubim, celestial beings often depicted as guardians of God's holiness and presence, were intricately woven into the fabric. Their presence on the veil recalled their role in guarding the Garden of Eden after humanity's fall (Genesis 3:24), reinforcing the idea that access to God's immediate presence was restricted due to sin. The phrase "cunning work" emphasizes the extraordinary skill and divine inspiration required to create such intricate, three-dimensional designs within the weave, reflecting the divine standard of excellence for everything associated with God's dwelling. This was not mere embroidery but an advanced form of tapestry weaving that integrated the figures into the very structure of the cloth.

Literary Devices

The verse employs profound Symbolism. The veil itself is the preeminent symbol, representing the impassable barrier between a holy God and sinful humanity, a testament to God's transcendent purity. The specific colors—blue, purple, and scarlet—are rich in symbolic meaning, representing divinity/heaven, royalty/majesty, and atonement/life, respectively. The fine twined linen symbolizes purity and righteousness. The cherubim are symbolic guardians of God's holiness, reinforcing the restricted access to His presence. The phrase "cunning work" highlights the Divine Mandate and Human Skill, emphasizing that the Tabernacle's construction was not merely human effort but a divinely inspired and enabled endeavor, reflecting God's glory and meticulousness. This attention to detail also serves as a form of Foreshadowing, subtly pointing to the ultimate means by which this separation would be overcome, anticipating the New Testament revelation of Christ's work.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Exodus 36:35 powerfully articulates the foundational theological truth of God's absolute holiness and transcendence, which necessitates a separation from sinful humanity. The veil, meticulously crafted according to divine specifications, served as a constant visual reminder of this chasm, emphasizing that direct access to God's immediate presence was impossible for the common person and only permissible for the High Priest under very specific, divinely ordained conditions. This physical barrier underscored the gravity of sin and the immense gap it created between a perfect Creator and His fallen creation, setting the stage for the entire sacrificial system and the need for mediation and atonement. It reveals God's nature as both glorious and unapproachable, yet also gracious in providing a means, however limited at the time, for His people to draw near.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The intricate detail of Exodus 36:35, describing the creation of the veil, serves as a profound reminder of God's awe-inspiring holiness and the immense reverence He commanded for His dwelling. For the ancient Israelites, the veil was a tangible symbol of their separation from a holy God due to sin, instilling a deep sense of awe and the understanding that access to His presence was a rare and sacred privilege, mediated solely by the High Priest. For believers today, this verse invites us to contemplate the incredible transformation wrought by Christ. We no longer stand before a physical veil that bars our access to God's presence. Instead, through the perfect sacrifice of Jesus, the way has been opened, granting us direct, confident access to the very throne of grace. This truth should fill us with profound gratitude, humility, and a renewed sense of the sacredness of our relationship with God. It calls us to live lives that honor this unparalleled privilege, approaching Him with both reverence and bold confidence, knowing that the barrier has been removed. Our worship and daily walk should reflect the reality that we have been brought near by the blood of Christ, living in the light of His finished work.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does the imagery of the veil in Exodus 36:35 deepen your understanding of God's holiness and the gravity of sin?
  • What does it mean for you personally that the veil, which once separated humanity from God, has been torn, and what implications does this have for your spiritual life?
  • How should the knowledge of direct access to God through Christ impact your daily prayer life, worship, and overall relationship with Him?
  • In what ways can you live a life that reflects the profound privilege and responsibility of having unhindered access to God's presence through Jesus?

FAQ

What was the primary purpose of the veil in the Tabernacle?

Answer: The primary purpose of the veil (Hebrew: parokhet) was to serve as a physical and symbolic barrier separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (also known as the Holy of Holies). This separation underscored the absolute holiness of God and the inherent sinfulness of humanity, making it clear that direct access to God's immediate presence was restricted. It emphasized the need for mediation and atonement, as only the High Priest could enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2).

What is meant by "cunning work" in the context of the veil's creation?

Answer: "Cunning work" translates the Hebrew word choshev (H2803), which refers to the work of a master weaver or an inventive designer. It signifies a highly skilled, artistic, and intricate process, far beyond simple embroidery. In the case of the veil, it means the cherubim were not merely stitched onto the fabric but were intricately woven into the very threads of the blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen. This level of craftsmanship, divinely inspired and enabled (Exodus 35:31), reflected the divine standard of excellence and the glory of God for whom the Tabernacle was built.

How does the veil of the Tabernacle connect to the New Testament?

Answer: The veil of the Tabernacle (and later the Temple) is profoundly connected to the New Testament through the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The Gospel accounts record that at the moment of Christ's death, the veil of the Temple was miraculously torn in two from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51). This dramatic event symbolized that the barrier between God and humanity, caused by sin, had been removed by Christ's perfect sacrifice. The book of Hebrews further elaborates, explaining that Christ's body was the true veil, and through His shed blood, believers now have direct, confident access to God's presence, entering into the "holiest by the blood of Jesus" through a "new and living way" (Hebrews 10:19-20).

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Exodus 36:35, describing the meticulously crafted veil, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The veil, with its rich symbolism of God's holiness and humanity's separation due to sin, served as a powerful visual aid to the Israelites, constantly reminding them that direct access to God's immediate presence was impossible. It foreshadowed the need for a perfect mediator and a final atonement. This foreshadowing culminated dramatically at the crucifixion of Jesus, when the veil of the Temple was miraculously torn from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51), signifying that the way to God's presence was now opened. The author of Hebrews masterfully explains that Jesus Himself is the "new and living way" through the veil—that is, His flesh (Hebrews 10:20). His perfect sacrifice on the cross, represented by His shed blood (Hebrews 9:12), accomplished what the Tabernacle sacrifices could only symbolize: the complete removal of the barrier between God and humanity. Through Christ, we no longer need an earthly high priest or a physical veil; we can now "draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith" to the very throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16), having boldness to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus (Hebrews 10:19). Thus, the veil, once a symbol of separation, now points to the unparalleled intimacy and access we have in Christ, demonstrating the profound and complete nature of His redemptive work.

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Commentary on Exodus 36 verses 35–38

In the building of a house there is a great deal of work about the doors and partitions. In the tabernacle these were answerable to the rest of the fabric; there were curtains for doors, and veils for partitions. 1. There was a veil made for a partition between the holy place, and the most holy, Exo 36:35, Exo 36:36. This signified the darkness and distance of that dispensation, compared with the New Testament, which shows us the glory of God more clearly and invites us to draw near to it; and the darkness and distance of our present state, in comparison with heaven, where we shall be ever with the Lord and see him as he is. 2. There was a veil made for the door of the tabernacle, Exo 36:37, Exo 36:38. At this door the people assembled, though forbidden to enter; for, while we are in this present state, we must get as near to God as we can.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 35–38. Public domain.
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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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