### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pôreketh**, represented by `{{H6532}}`, is a term for a **separatrix, i.e. (the sacred) screen; vail**. It appears **25 times** across **23 unique verses** in the Bible. The term specifically refers to the sacred curtain within the Tabernacle and Temple that served as a physical and symbolic barrier.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6532}}` has a precise and critical function. It was an ornate curtain made of "blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen" with cherubim of "cunning work" ([[Exodus 26:31]], [[Exodus 36:35]]). Its primary purpose was to "divide unto you between the holy place and the most holy" [[Exodus 26:33]]. This vail concealed the Ark of the Testimony ([[Exodus 40:3]], [[Exodus 40:21]]). Access beyond the vail was strictly forbidden, with the Lord warning that Aaron should not "come at all times into the holy place within the vail" lest he die [[Leviticus 16:2]]. The vail was also central to rites of atonement, where the priest would sprinkle blood "before the vail of the sanctuary" [[Leviticus 4:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of covering and separation:
* `{{H5526}}` **çâkak** (to entwine as ascreen; by implication, to fence in, cover over, (figuratively) protect): This root word is used directly to describe the vail's function, as in the command to "cover `{{H5526}}` the ark with the vail" [[Exodus 40:3]].
* `{{H4539}}` **mâçâk** (a cover, i.e. veil; covering, curtain, hanging): This word is used for other tabernacle hangings and is sometimes used in conjunction with the vail itself, as in the "vail of the covering" ([[Exodus 35:12]], [[Exodus 39:34]]). In [[Numbers 4:5]], the vail is specifically called the "covering `{{H4539}}` vail `{{H6532}}`".
* `{{H3680}}` **kâçâh** (to cover (for clothing or secrecy)): This verb is used when Aaron and his sons are instructed to take down the vail and "cover `{{H3680}}` the ark of testimony with it" when the camp moves [[Numbers 4:5]].
* `{{H4372}}` **mikçeh** (a covering, i.e. weatherboarding): This refers to the outer coverings of the Tabernacle, often made of skins [[Exodus 26:14]], and is listed alongside the vail as a component of the sanctuary [[Exodus 39:34]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6532}}` is significant in understanding Israel's worship and view of God.
* **Separation and Holiness:** The vail's chief purpose was to enforce a physical separation between the holy place and the Most Holy Place, which contained the Ark of the Testimony [[Exodus 26:33]]. This physical barrier symbolized the profound separation between a holy God and sinful humanity.
* **Mediated Access:** The vail restricted direct access to the presence of God. Only the high priest could enter beyond it, and only on the Day of Atonement after specific rituals involving blood ([[Leviticus 16:2]], [[Leviticus 16:15]]). This underscored the need for priestly mediation.
* **Atonement:** The vail was a focal point for purification rituals. The sprinkling of blood before the vail was a required part of the sin offering, demonstrating that approaching the holy presence of God required sacrificial atonement ([[Leviticus 4:6]], [[Leviticus 4:17]]).
* **Concealing the Divine Presence:** The vail was placed "before the mercy seat" ([[Exodus 30:6]], [[Leviticus 16:2]]) and served to "cover the ark" [[Exodus 40:3]]. This act of covering hid the representation of God's covenant and presence, instilling a sense of awe and reverence.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6532}}` is not merely a curtain but a vital theological object. The **pôreketh** serves as a powerful symbol of separation, defining the boundary between humanity and the immediate, holy presence of God. Its placement, materials, and role in ritual all point to the gravity of approaching God, establishing the principles of holiness, mediation, and atonement that were central to the Old Testament covenant.
TRV