Exodus 40:8

KJV

And thou shalt set up the court round about, and hang up the hanging at the court gate.

KJV (with Strong's)

And thou shalt set up {H7760} the court {H2691} round about {H5439}, and hang up {H5414} the hanging {H4539} at the court {H2691} gate {H8179}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Set up the courtyard all the way around, and hang up the screen for the entrance to the courtyard.

Berean Standard Bible

Set up the surrounding courtyard and hang the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard.

American Standard Version

And thou shalt set up the court round about, and hang up the screen of the gate of the court.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 40:8 meticulously details the penultimate structural command for the Tabernacle's completion: the erection of its outer court and the installation of the gate hanging. This instruction signifies the establishment of a sacred, delineated perimeter around God's dwelling, emphasizing divine order, holiness, and the provision of a divinely appointed, yet regulated, point of access for His people. The precise nature of this command underscores the profound theological principles governing humanity's approach to a holy God, setting the stage for the glorious manifestation of His presence within the completed sanctuary.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 40:8 is strategically positioned within the climactic final chapter of the book of Exodus, which meticulously chronicles the assembly of the Tabernacle according to the divine blueprint revealed on Mount Sinai. This chapter serves as the grand culmination of the detailed instructions provided earlier in [Exodus 25-31](/exodus/25 "Exodus 25-31 - Tabernacle Instructions"), transitioning from revelation to realization. The preceding verses (Exodus 40:1-7) detail the setting up of the inner sanctuary, including the Tent of Meeting, the Ark of the Covenant, the table of showbread, the lampstand, and the altars for incense and burnt offerings. Verse 8 specifically addresses the final external component, the court and its gate, thereby completing the physical structure. The subsequent verses (Exodus 40:9-15) describe the anointing and consecration of the Tabernacle and its furnishings, along with Aaron and his sons, preparing them for sacred service. The narrative reaches its zenith in [Exodus 40:34-38](/exodus/40-34-38 "Exodus 40:34-38 - The Glory of the Lord Fills the Tabernacle"), where the glory of the Lord descends and fills the completed Tabernacle, validating its construction and signifying God's tangible presence among His people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The construction of the Tabernacle transpired during Israel's formative period in the wilderness, following their miraculous deliverance from Egyptian bondage. As a nascent nation, Israel was learning to live in covenant relationship with Yahweh, distinct from the surrounding pagan cultures. The Tabernacle was not merely a building but a portable, tangible symbol of God's presence, serving as the central hub for their worship, legal proceedings, and national identity. Unlike the idolatrous temples of the ancient Near East, which often housed cultic images and were associated with polytheism, the Tabernacle uniquely emphasized the unseen, transcendent God who chose to dwell among His people. The concept of sacred space, meticulously delineated by courts and hangings, was a common architectural feature in the ancient world, but in Israel, it profoundly communicated Yahweh's absolute holiness, His accessibility on His own terms, and the necessity of ritual purity for approach. The "court round about" and its "hanging at the court gate" were therefore not just structural elements but powerful theological declarations, providing a structured, divinely ordained pathway for a sinful people to encounter a holy God, in stark contrast to the often chaotic and immoral practices of their neighbors.
* **Key Themes:** Exodus 40:8 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Exodus and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Presence and Dwelling**, as the erection of the court completes the physical structure designed to house God's glory among His people. Secondly, it underscores **God's Holiness and Separation**, with the court serving as a clear boundary between the sacred and the profane, emphasizing that God is set apart and requires a consecrated space. Thirdly, the verse reinforces the theme of **Ordered Worship and Obedience**, as the meticulous instructions for the Tabernacle's assembly, including this final external component, stress the importance of following God's precise commands in all matters of worship and approach. The "hanging at the court gate" also introduces the theme of **Regulated Access to God**, signifying that while humanity can approach God, it must be on His terms and through His designated means, a principle foundational to the entire sacrificial system and priestly ministry detailed in subsequent books like [Leviticus](/leviticus "Leviticus - The Book of Holiness").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Court (Hebrew, _châtsêr'_):** From H2691, this term refers to an enclosed area, a yard, or a precinct, often surrounded by a fence or walls. In the context of the Tabernacle, the _châtsêr_ was the expansive outer courtyard, defined by linen curtains, that encompassed the Tent of Meeting. It served as the primary gathering space for the Israelites, signifying a consecrated boundary that separated the holy dwelling from the common wilderness. This enclosure visually and symbolically underscored the distinctness and set-apart nature of God's presence, emphasizing the holiness required for even peripheral access to His sanctuary.
* **Set up (Hebrew, _sûwm'_):** From H7760, this primitive root carries a wide range of meanings, including to put, place, appoint, or establish. In this context, "set up" denotes a deliberate, foundational act of construction and establishment. It highlights the divine origin and meticulous design of the Tabernacle, emphasizing that its erection was not arbitrary but precisely commanded by God. The use of this verb underscores the authority behind the command and the importance of precise execution in constructing God's dwelling place.
* **Hanging (Hebrew, _mâçâk'_):** From H4539, this word denotes a cover, veil, or curtain. Specifically, it refers to the ornate curtain that served as the entrance to the Tabernacle court. Unlike a solid door, the _mâçâk_ was a fabric barrier, often richly embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet threads, signifying both a point of entry and a visual demarcation. Its nature as a "hanging" implied regulated access—it could be opened, but only by those authorized or according to prescribed rituals—rather than an impenetrable wall. This element was crucial for managing the flow of worshippers and maintaining the sanctity of the court, foreshadowing the ultimate access provided through Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And thou shalt set up the court round about":** This clause commands Moses to erect the perimeter of the Tabernacle's outer court. The verb "set up" (H7760, _sûwm_) indicates a deliberate, precise, and foundational act of construction, emphasizing the divine origin and meticulous design of the entire structure. The phrase "the court round about" delineates the sacred space, creating a physical and symbolic boundary between the holy dwelling of God and the common, profane world outside. This act was essential for defining the parameters of worship and reinforcing the concept of God's separation and holiness.
* **"and hang up the hanging at the court gate":** This second clause specifies the final detail for the court's completion: the installation of its entrance curtain. The verb "hang up" (H5414, _nâthan_) denotes the placement of the curtain (H4539, _mâçâk_) which served as the sole point of entry into the court. Its placement "at the court gate" highlights that while access to God's presence was restricted, it was not entirely denied. This designated entry point ensured that all who entered did so according to God's prescribed way, reinforcing the principles of divine order and regulated approach to the Holy One. The nature of the "hanging" as a curtain, rather than a solid door, also subtly implied that access, though controlled, was ultimately achievable.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 40:8 employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological meaning and structural significance. **Instructional Language** is paramount, with the direct, imperative commands "thou shalt set up" and "hang up," reflecting God's precise and authoritative directives for the Tabernacle's construction. This meticulous detail underscores the divine origin of the design and the importance of absolute obedience in worship. **Symbolism** is central, as the entire Tabernacle, including the court and its gate, functions as a powerful theological symbol. The "court round about" symbolizes the **separation** of the sacred from the profane, establishing a holy boundary that protects God's dwelling from defilement. The "hanging at the court gate" symbolizes **regulated access** to God's presence, indicating that entry is possible but only through a divinely appointed way. This architectural feature also carries an element of **Anticipation**, as its completion sets the stage for the dramatic filling of the Tabernacle with the glory of the Lord, the ultimate sign of God's dwelling among His people and the fulfillment of His covenant promise.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 40:8, in its command to erect the Tabernacle court and its gate, powerfully communicates several core theological truths. It underscores God's absolute holiness and His desire for a consecrated space for His dwelling among a sinful people. The meticulous instructions reveal God's nature as a God of order and precision, who demands reverence and adherence to His prescribed ways for worship and approach. The court served as a visible boundary, emphasizing the separation between the divine and the human, yet the "hanging" at the gate also signified that access, though regulated, was indeed possible. This established a critical principle: humanity could approach God, but only on His terms and through His designated means. This theme of regulated access and the necessity of a divinely provided way finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament, where Christ becomes the ultimate means of access.

* [Hebrews 9:1-10](/hebrews/9-1-10 "Hebrews 9:1-10 - The Earthly Sanctuary and Its Limitations")
* [Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Our Bold Access Through Christ")
* [John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 40:8, though describing an ancient structure, offers timeless principles for our spiritual lives. The meticulousness with which God commanded the Tabernacle's construction reminds us that our approach to Him should be marked by intentionality, reverence, and obedience to His Word. Just as the court established a sacred boundary, we are called to live lives set apart for God, recognizing His holiness in every sphere. This means consciously choosing to honor Him in our thoughts, words, and actions, creating a "sacred space" in our lives where His presence is acknowledged and prioritized. The "hanging at the court gate" is particularly poignant; it signifies that while God is holy and distinct, He has also graciously provided a way for us to draw near. This ancient gate foreshadows the ultimate access we have through Jesus Christ. Our worship, our service, and our daily walk should reflect the profound understanding that we are approaching a holy God, yet one who has mercifully opened the way. We are invited into His presence, not through human merit or arbitrary means, but through the specific, divinely appointed path He has provided.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of God's instructions for the Tabernacle challenge my own approach to worship and obedience in my daily life?**
* **In what ways do I recognize and honor the "sacred space" of God's presence in my daily life, and how might I better delineate it from the "common" or secular?**
* **Considering the "hanging at the court gate," what does it mean for me to access God "through the prescribed way" in my contemporary Christian walk, and how does this understanding deepen my gratitude?**

### FAQ
**What was the purpose of the "court round about" the Tabernacle?**

Answer: The "court round about" the Tabernacle served multiple crucial purposes. Primarily, it created a sacred boundary, separating the holy dwelling place of God from the common wilderness where the Israelites camped. This physical demarcation reinforced the theological truth of God's holiness and His distinctness from His creation. It also provided a designated space for the Israelites to gather for worship and sacrifice, allowing them to approach God in an ordered and prescribed manner. While the court allowed the general populace to enter, it emphasized that direct access to the innermost sanctuary was restricted to priests, further highlighting the escalating levels of holiness within the Tabernacle complex.

**What was the "hanging at the court gate" made of, and why was it a curtain rather than a solid door?**

Answer: The "hanging" (Hebrew: _mâçâk_) at the court gate was a curtain, specifically described in [Exodus 27:16](/exodus/27-16 "Exodus 27:16 - The Gate of the Court") as being made of "twenty cubits of hanging for the gate of the court, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, wrought with needlework." It was a vibrantly colored and intricately designed fabric barrier, much like the other curtains of the Tabernacle. It was a curtain rather than a solid door to symbolize regulated, rather than impenetrable, access. While it marked the sole point of entry and maintained the sanctity of the court, its very nature as a "hanging" implied that it could be opened, allowing those who followed God's prescribed way to enter. This foreshadowed the future, more complete access to God's presence that would be provided through Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The Tabernacle court and its gate, as commanded in Exodus 40:8, find their profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus. The "court round about" established a sacred boundary, signifying God's holiness and the necessary separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. This boundary, with its regulated "hanging at the court gate," prefigured the ultimate means of access to God. In the Old Covenant, access was limited and mediated through the Tabernacle system; only priests could enter certain areas, and the High Priest alone could enter the Most Holy Place once a year, and then only with blood. However, Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of this entire system. He is the true and living way, the ultimate "gate" through whom humanity gains full access to God. His body, broken on the cross, is the "new and living way" (as described in [Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Our Bold Access Through Christ")) that tore the temple curtain from top to bottom at His death ([Matthew 27:51](/matthew/27-51 "Matthew 27:51 - The Temple Curtain Torn")). This dramatic event symbolized the opening of direct access to God's presence, no longer restricted by physical barriers or priestly mediation. Jesus declared, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, Truth, and Life")). Thus, the temporary, physical gate of the Tabernacle court points forward to Christ, the eternal, spiritual gate, who by His sacrifice has ushered believers into intimate fellowship with God, granting us bold access to the very throne of grace ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace")).

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.

Cross-References

Exodus 27:9

¶ And thou shalt make the court of the tabernacle: for the south side southward [there shall be] hangings for the court [of] fine twined linen of an hundred cubits long for one side:

Exodus 27:19

All the vessels of the tabernacle in all the service thereof, and all the pins thereof, and all the pins of the court, [shall be of] brass.

Ephesians 4:11

And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

Ephesians 4:12

For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

Exodus 38:9

¶ And he made the court: on the south side southward the hangings of the court [were of] fine twined linen, an hundred cubits:

Exodus 38:20

And all the pins of the tabernacle, and of the court round about, [were of] brass.

Matthew 16:18

And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.