### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term יְרִיעָה (yᵉrîyʻâh, `{{H3407}}`) denotes a "curtain" or "hanging." Its etymological root is linked to יָרַע (yāra‘), a verb often associated with "trembling" or "shaking." This connection is insightful, suggesting the light, flowing, or perhaps even wavering nature of fabric hung as a curtain. While the primary sense is a physical barrier or covering made of cloth, the underlying nuance hints at its pliable and movable quality. The semantic range is quite focused, almost exclusively referring to fabric hangings, particularly those of significant size or purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term יְרִיעָה (yᵉrîyʻâh, `{{H3407}}`) appears predominantly in the Pentateuch, especially in the book of Exodus, where it describes the various coverings and partitions of the Tabernacle.
In [[Exodus 26]], the intricate details of the Tabernacle's construction are laid out, with יְרִיעָה referring to:
* The ten inner "curtains" of fine twined linen, blue, purple, and scarlet material, with cherubim skillfully worked into them, forming the inner dwelling of the Tabernacle ([[Exodus 26:1]], [[Exodus 26:6]]). These were the most sacred and beautiful.
* The eleven "curtains" of goat hair, serving as a tent over the dwelling ([[Exodus 26:7]], [[Exodus 26:12]]). These provided an outer layer of protection.
* Further coverings of ram skins dyed red and porpoise skins (or badger skins, depending on translation) are also described as coverings, though the term יְרִיעָה is primarily applied to the linen and goat hair layers.
The term is reiterated in [[Exodus 36]], detailing the actual construction, emphasizing the meticulous adherence to divine instructions ([[Exodus 36:8]], [[Exodus 36:13]], [[Exodus 36:14]], [[Exodus 36:19]]). This repeated usage underscores the fundamental role of these curtains in defining the structure and sanctity of God's dwelling place.
Beyond the Tabernacle, יְרִיעָה also describes the "curtains" of a tent in a more general sense, as seen in [[Jeremiah 4:20]] and [[Habakkuk 3:7]]. In prophetic literature, particularly [[Isaiah 54:2]], the word takes on a metaphorical significance: "Enlarge the place of your tent; stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; do not spare; lengthen your cords and strengthen your stakes." Here, the "curtains" symbolize the expansion of God's people and their prosperity, illustrating a period of growth and blessing.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary root of יְרִיעָה (yᵉrîyʻâh, `{{H3407}}`) is יָרַע (yāra‘), which can mean "to tremble" or "to fear" (`{{H3372}}`, `{{H3373}}`). This connection highlights the light, movable quality of the fabric.
Other significant related terms, particularly within the context of the Tabernacle, include:
* מִשְׁכָּן (mishkān, `{{H4908}}`): "dwelling place," the term for the Tabernacle itself, whose structure was largely formed by the יְרִיעָה.
* אֹהֶל (ʾōhel, `{{H168}}`): "tent," often used in conjunction with mishkān, as the Tabernacle was essentially a divine tent. The יְרִיעָה formed the fabric of this tent.
* פָּרֹכֶת (pārōkhet, `{{H6532}}`): The specific "veil" or "curtain" that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place within the Tabernacle. While also a curtain, it had a unique and distinct theological function.
* מָסָךְ (māsākh, `{{H4539}}`): The "screen" or "curtain" at the entrance of the Tabernacle and the gate of the court.
These related terms clarify that while יְרִיעָה refers to the general fabric hangings, other specific terms were used for particular curtains with distinct functions within the sacred structure.
### Theological Significance
The יְרִיעָה (yᵉrîyʻâh, `{{H3407}}`) holds profound theological significance, primarily through its role in the Tabernacle:
* **Divine Presence and Dwelling:** The curtains formed the very walls and roof of God's earthly dwelling place among His people. Their meticulous design and construction, as detailed in Exodus, underscore the holiness and majesty of the God who chose to reside in such a structure. They physically manifested God's immanence.
* **Holiness and Separation:** The various layers of curtains in the Tabernacle (linen, goat hair, skins) served to delineate sacred space, separating the holy from the common and different degrees of holiness within the sanctuary. They guarded the divine presence, emphasizing the awe and reverence required to approach God. The very act of drawing or moving a curtain could signify a transition from one realm to another.
* **Symbol of Concealment and Revelation:** While the curtains primarily concealed the inner sanctum, they also implied the possibility of revelation. They created a space where God's glory could dwell, yet be veiled from human eyes, protecting both God's holiness and humanity's frailty.
* **Covenantal Faithfulness and Expansion:** In prophetic contexts like [[Isaiah 54:2]], the "curtains" become a powerful symbol of God's covenantal faithfulness and the promised expansion of His people. The image of stretching out the curtains of one's tent signifies growth, prosperity, and the fulfillment of God's promises to bless and multiply His chosen ones. This metaphorical usage elevates the simple "curtain" to a symbol of divine blessing and eschatological hope.
### Summary
The Hebrew word יְרִיעָה (yᵉrîyʻâh, `{{H3407}}`) fundamentally means "curtain" or "hanging," stemming from a root that suggests a "trembling" or light, flowing quality. Its most prominent biblical usage is in the description of the Tabernacle's various fabric coverings, which served to define and enclose the sacred space of God's dwelling among Israel. These curtains were integral to the structure, separating degrees of holiness and guarding the divine presence. Beyond the Tabernacle, יְרִיעָה also describes general tent coverings and, significantly, is used metaphorically in prophetic texts to symbolize the expansion and prosperity of God's people, highlighting His covenantal faithfulness. Thus, יְרִיעָה is not merely a descriptive term for fabric; it embodies concepts of divine presence, holiness, separation, and the unfolding of God's gracious purposes.
TRV