Exodus 26 Commentary

The LORD gives instructions on how to build the tabernacle itself. The first item discussed was the making of the curtains that formed the walls and ceilings of the structure.

In order to protect the curtains of the tabernacle, the LORD commands that another set of curtains be made. These curtains were to be made of more weather-resistant materials such as animal skins and furs.

After the instructions on how to create the linens of the tabernacle, the LORD then described how to make the boards and sockets that comprise the frame of the tabernacle.

Along with the boards and the sockets, the LORD commanded that bars be made. Presumably they were needed to reinforce the frame of the tabernacle walls.

Now that the structure of the tabernacle has been specified, the next item discussed is the veil that separates the Holy of Holies from the Holy Place. Both the veil and its supports are described. After the veil was hung, the ark and the mercy seat were to be put in the Holy of Holies, separating them from the other part of the tabernacle. Other furniture was to be located in specific places in the tabernacle.

The final item discussed in chapter 26 is the curtain (or "screen") covering the entrance to the tabernacle from the outside. It was to be similar to the veil between the Holy of Holies and the Holy Place, but there is no mention of cherubim here.