### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yᵉrîyʻâh**, represented by `{{H3407}}`, primarily means **curtain** or a hanging. It appears **54 times** across **32 unique verses**. The term is used for both the sacred hangings of the Tabernacle and the common curtains of tents, signifying its importance in the structure of both holy and everyday dwellings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3407}}` is most prominently featured in the detailed instructions for constructing the Tabernacle. It refers to the inner **curtains** of fine twined linen, blue, purple, and scarlet, adorned with cherubims [[Exodus 26:1]], as well as the outer **curtains** of goats' hair that formed the tent covering [[Exodus 26:7]]. Beyond the Tabernacle, the word describes the hangings of dwellings, as when David contrasts his house of cedar with the ark of God dwelling within **curtains** [[2 Samuel 7:2]]. Metaphorically, it is used to describe God stretching out the heavens like a **curtain** [[Psalms 104:2]] and, in times of judgment, the spoiling of tents and **curtains** signifies sudden destruction [[Jeremiah 4:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the function and significance of a **curtain**:
* `{{H168}}` **'ôhel** (tent): This word is frequently used alongside `{{H3407}}`, as curtains are essential components of a **tent**. In times of distress, the spoiling of tents and curtains is linked [[Jeremiah 4:20]], and in poetic imagery, the beauty of Solomon's **curtains** is compared to the **tents** of Kedar [[Song of Solomon 1:5]].
* `{{H4908}}` **mishkân** (tabernacle): The **curtains** were a foundational element of the **tabernacle**, God's dwelling place. The instructions explicitly state to "make the **tabernacle** with ten **curtains**" [[Exodus 26:1]], showing their integral role in forming the sacred structure.
* `{{H2266}}` **châbar** (to join, couple): This root describes the action of fastening the individual **curtains** together to form a unified whole for the Tabernacle. The command specified that "five **curtains** shall be **coupled** together" [[Exodus 26:3]], emphasizing the unity of the structure.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3407}}` is seen in its various applications:
* **The Sacred Dwelling:** The primary theological role of the **curtains** was to form the walls of the Tabernacle, the earthly dwelling of God among His people [[Exodus 26:1]]. The concern of King David about the ark remaining under **curtains** while he lived in a fine house highlights their association with God's holy presence [[1 Chronicles 17:1]].
* **Divine Blueprint:** The **curtains** of the Tabernacle were made with specific materials, colors, and dimensions commanded by God, crafted by **wise** `(châkâm)` hearted men [[Exodus 36:8]]. The inclusion of **cherubims** `(kᵉrûwb)` in the design further marked them as part of a holy space [[Exodus 26:1]].
* **Cosmic and Prophetic Imagery:** The word is elevated from a physical object to a cosmic metaphor when God is described as stretching out the **heavens** `(shâmayim)` like a **curtain** [[Psalms 104:2]]. In Isaiah, the call to "stretch forth the **curtains** of thine habitations" serves as a promise of future expansion and restoration for God's people [[Isaiah 54:2]].
* **Symbol of Frailty and Judgment:** In contrast to their holy purpose, the **curtains** also symbolize the fragility of human security. Their trembling represents affliction [[Habakkuk 3:7]], and their destruction signifies sudden and complete desolation [[Jeremiah 10:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3407}}` is a word that defines both sacred and common spaces. As the fabric of the Tabernacle, it represents the divinely ordained dwelling of God on earth, crafted with holy purpose. As a component of a tent, it represents human habitation and, by extension, the fragility of life. From the intricate details of the Tabernacle's construction to the grand metaphor of the heavens, **yᵉrîyʻâh** serves as a powerful symbol of dwelling, divine presence, and the boundary between the holy and the mundane.
TRV