Exodus 35:17

Exodus 35:17 is a concise detail within the extensive divine instructions given to Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary where God would dwell among His people in the wilderness. This verse specifically lists components of the Tabernacle's outer court, emphasizing the precise nature of God's architectural plan.

Context

This verse falls within the section of Exodus (chapters 35-40) detailing the actual construction and assembly of the Tabernacle, following the detailed blueprints God provided to Moses on Mount Sinai. Chapter 35 begins with Moses gathering the Israelites to present God's commands regarding the Sabbath and the freewill offering for the Tabernacle's materials. Verses 10-19 of this chapter list the various parts of the Tabernacle and its furnishings that the skilled craftsmen were to make, with verse 17 focusing on the external boundary of the sacred complex. The construction of the Tabernacle was in direct response to God's command to build a sanctuary so He might dwell among them.

Key Themes

• Divine Precision and Order: The meticulous listing of every component, down to the "sockets" and "hangings," underscores God's demand for exactness in His worship and dwelling place. Every detail was significant.
• Holiness and Separation: The "hangings of the court" served as a physical barrier, defining the sacred space of the Tabernacle and separating it from the common ground of the surrounding camp. This visual boundary taught the Israelites about God's holiness and the need for a distinct approach to Him.
• Obedience to God's Design: The Israelites' task was not to innovate but to faithfully execute God's plan. This obedience in construction mirrored the obedience required in their spiritual lives. The specific design of the court, including its hangings and pillars, was first laid out in Exodus 27:9-19.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew terms used in this verse convey precision:

• "Hangings" (Hebrew: qela'im - קְלָעִים): These were the curtains made of fine twined linen that formed the walls of the outer court. They were 5 cubits (approximately 7.5 feet) high, creating a clear demarcation.
• "Pillars" (Hebrew: ammudim - עַמּוּדִים): These were the supporting posts, likely made of bronze, upon which the hangings rested.
• "Sockets" (Hebrew: adanîm - אֲדָנִים): These were the heavy bases, also made of bronze for the outer court, into which the pillars were firmly set. They provided stability for the entire structure.
• "Hanging for the door of the court" (Hebrew: masach sha'ar hechatzer - מָסָךְ שַׁעַר הֶחָצֵר): This refers to the specific curtain that served as the entrance gate to the outer court. Unlike the plain linen hangings, this entrance curtain was likely more ornate, made of blue, purple, and scarlet material, and fine twined linen, with embroidery (as described in Exodus 27:16).

Practical Application

Even in seemingly minor details like court hangings and sockets, this verse reminds us of several enduring principles:

1. God Values Order and Structure: The divine blueprint for the Tabernacle, down to its perimeter, teaches that God is a God of order, not chaos. This principle can be applied to our personal lives, our worship, and the organization of the church.
2. Attention to Detail in Service: The exactness required in building the Tabernacle encourages believers to serve God with diligence and care, understanding that every task, no matter how small, contributes to His overall plan.
3. The Significance of Boundaries: The court hangings created a sacred space, signifying God's holiness. In the New Testament, while we are no longer bound by physical temples, the concept of being set apart for God remains. Believers are called to be God's temple, a holy dwelling in the Spirit, which implies living a life distinct from the world.
4. A Foreshadowing of Access: While the court hangings separated, the "hanging for the door" provided the single, appointed way to enter. This foreshadowed Christ as the "door" or the only way to the Father (John 10:9; John 14:6).