Exodus 26:4

And thou shalt make loops of blue upon the edge of the one curtain from the selvedge in the coupling; and likewise shalt thou make in the uttermost edge of [another] curtain, in the coupling of the second.

And thou shalt make {H6213} loops {H3924} of blue {H8504} upon the edge {H8193} of the one {H259} curtain {H3407} from the selvedge {H7098} in the coupling {H2279}; and likewise shalt thou make {H6213} in the uttermost {H7020} edge {H8193} of another curtain {H3407}, in the coupling {H4225} of the second {H8145}.

Make loops of blue on the edge of the outermost sheet in the first set, and do the same on the edge of the outermost sheet in the second set.

Make loops of blue material on the edge of the end curtain in the first set, and do the same for the end curtain in the second set.

And thou shalt make loops of blue upon the edge of the one curtain from the selvedge in the coupling; and likewise shalt thou make in the edge of the curtain that is outmost in the second coupling.

Commentary

Exodus 26:4 is part of God's incredibly detailed instructions to Moses for constructing the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary where God would dwell among the Israelites in the wilderness. This specific verse focuses on the precise design elements of the Tabernacle's inner coverings.

Context

Chapter 26 of Exodus provides the divine blueprint for the Tabernacle's structure, including its curtains, boards, and bars. The Tabernacle was not merely a tent but a meticulously designed dwelling place for God, symbolizing His presence among His people. This verse describes the making of "loops of blue" on the edges of the main linen curtains. These loops were critical for joining two large sets of curtains together with golden clasps (mentioned in the subsequent verse, Exodus 26:6), forming a unified covering for the entire structure. This attention to detail underscores the sacredness and divine origin of the Tabernacle, echoing God's command to "make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them" (Exodus 25:8).

Key Themes

  • Divine Precision and Order: The meticulous instructions for every component of the Tabernacle, down to the loops on the curtains, highlight God's character as a God of order and His expectation of precise obedience in worship and service.
  • Unity and Connection: The loops served to join two separate sections of curtains into one seamless covering, symbolizing the unity within the community of faith and the unified relationship between God and His people. It speaks to the idea of disparate parts being brought together for a singular, divine purpose.
  • Symbolism of Blue: The color blue (Hebrew: tekelet) frequently appears in Tabernacle furnishings and priestly garments. It is often associated with the heavens, divinity, and royalty, signifying the heavenly origin and sacredness of the Tabernacle, connecting the earthly sanctuary to the divine realm.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "blue," tekelet, refers to a specific, highly valued dye, traditionally derived from sea snails. This color was not arbitrary but held deep symbolic meaning, often representing the sky, God's dwelling place, and divine revelation. The "loops" (Hebrew: lula'ot) themselves indicate intricate craftsmanship and purposeful design, ensuring a strong and functional connection for the curtains.

Practical Application

While we no longer construct a physical Tabernacle, the principles embedded in these detailed instructions remain relevant for believers today:

  • Attention to Detail in Service: God cares about the "loops" in our lives—the small, seemingly insignificant details of our obedience, worship, and service. Doing things with excellence and according to divine principles honors Him.
  • The Importance of Unity: Just as the curtains were joined to form one covering, believers are called to maintain unity in the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:3). Our individual contributions, when joined together, create a powerful testimony to God's presence.
  • God's Desire for Order and Beauty: The Tabernacle was not only functional but also beautiful and orderly. This reminds us that God delights in beauty, order, and intentionality in our lives and corporate worship.
  • Christ, Our True Tabernacle: Ultimately, the Tabernacle prefigured Christ, in whom God truly dwelt among humanity (John 1:14, where the Greek word for "dwelt" can mean "tabernacled"). The meticulous construction points to the perfection and divine design of God's ultimate plan of salvation through Jesus.
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Cross-References

  • Exodus 26:10 (2 votes)

    And thou shalt make fifty loops on the edge of the one curtain [that is] outmost in the coupling, and fifty loops in the edge of the curtain which coupleth the second.

  • Exodus 26:11 (2 votes)

    And thou shalt make fifty taches of brass, and put the taches into the loops, and couple the tent together, that it may be one.

  • Exodus 26:5 (2 votes)

    Fifty loops shalt thou make in the one curtain, and fifty loops shalt thou make in the edge of the curtain that [is] in the coupling of the second; that the loops may take hold one of another.

  • Exodus 36:11 (2 votes)

    And he made loops of blue on the edge of one curtain from the selvedge in the coupling: likewise he made in the uttermost side of [another] curtain, in the coupling of the second.

  • Exodus 36:12 (2 votes)

    Fifty loops made he in one curtain, and fifty loops made he in the edge of the curtain which [was] in the coupling of the second: the loops held one [curtain] to another.

  • Exodus 36:17 (2 votes)

    And he made fifty loops upon the uttermost edge of the curtain in the coupling, and fifty loops made he upon the edge of the curtain which coupleth the second.