Then he put up the curtainThe curtain, also known as the veil, served as a barrier between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place within the tabernacle. This act of putting up the curtain signifies the establishment of a sacred boundary, emphasizing the holiness of God and the separation between God and man due to sin. The curtain is a significant element in the tabernacle, symbolizing the need for mediation between God and humanity. In the New Testament, the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion (
Matthew 27:51) signifies the removal of this barrier, granting believers direct access to God through Christ.
at the entrance
The entrance to the tabernacle was the designated point of access for the priests who ministered within. This entrance was carefully constructed and positioned, reflecting the order and precision of God's instructions to Moses. The entrance symbolizes the way to approach God, which in the New Testament is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who declared Himself to be "the way" (John 14:6). The entrance's location and design underscore the importance of approaching God in the manner He prescribes.
to the tabernacle
The tabernacle was the portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. It was a central element of Israelite worship and community life, representing God's desire to dwell among His people. The tabernacle's construction and layout were given in detail by God to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25-31), highlighting its significance. The tabernacle prefigures the incarnation of Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14), and points forward to the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:3).
Persons / Places / Events
1.
MosesThe leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and to receive the Law. He is responsible for setting up the tabernacle as instructed by God.
2.
TabernacleThe portable dwelling place for the divine presence of God among the Israelites. It was meticulously constructed according to God's specifications given to Moses on Mount Sinai.
3.
Curtain (Veil)A significant element in the tabernacle, symbolizing the separation between the holy place and the most holy place, where God's presence dwelt. It represents the barrier between God and man due to sin.
4.
IsraelitesThe chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and were journeying to the Promised Land. They were to worship God according to the laws and structures He provided.
5.
WildernessThe setting where the Israelites wandered for 40 years. It is a place of testing, learning, and preparation for entering the Promised Land.
Teaching Points
The Significance of SeparationThe curtain represents the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. Reflect on the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin.
Christ as the FulfillmentJesus' death tore the veil, granting believers direct access to God. Embrace the privilege of approaching God with confidence through Christ.
The Role of ObedienceMoses' careful adherence to God's instructions for the tabernacle teaches the importance of obedience in our walk with God.
God's Presence Among His PeopleThe tabernacle signifies God's desire to dwell among His people. Recognize and cherish God's presence in your life today.
Preparation for WorshipJust as the tabernacle was prepared for worship, prepare your heart and life to be a dwelling place for God's presence.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Exodus 40:28?
2.How does Exodus 40:28 emphasize the importance of following God's specific instructions?
3.What does the "veil" in Exodus 40:28 symbolize in our spiritual lives?
4.How can we apply the concept of sacred separation in our daily worship?
5.How does Exodus 40:28 connect to the New Testament's teachings on holiness?
6.In what ways can we ensure our worship spaces honor God's presence today?
7.What is the significance of the veil mentioned in Exodus 40:28 in the tabernacle's design?
8.How does Exodus 40:28 reflect God's instructions for worship and holiness?
9.Why was the veil necessary in the context of Exodus 40:28?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Exodus 40?
11.What fabrics are mentioned in the Bible?
12.Why is there so little archaeological evidence for a massive tabernacle project described in Exodus 36?
13.Does God get tired? (Isaiah 40:28 vs. Exodus 31:17)
14.Exodus 40:16 - Why do other sections of the Bible emphasize different instructions for the same Tabernacle setup, creating apparent inconsistencies?What Does Exodus 40:28 Mean
Then“Then” signals the moment when all prior instructions have been carried out. The tabernacle has been erected exactly as the LORD commanded (Exodus 40:16-17).
• “Then” marks completion and transition, just as creation moved from “finished” to “very good” (Genesis 2:1-3).
• It invites a response of worship: obedience precedes glory (Exodus 40:34).
He put upMoses personally “put up” the final piece.
• Leadership means hands-on obedience (Numbers 12:7).
• God entrusts real tasks to real people; divine plans touch earth through faithful human action (James 2:22).
The curtainBSB: “the curtain.” This veil was woven of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn with cherubim worked into it (Exodus 26:36).
• A visible reminder of holiness—cherubim guarding access since Eden (Genesis 3:24).
• A barrier that both protects and separates (Hebrews 9:3-8).
At the entrancePlacement matters. The entrance is where worshipers first approach God.
• God provides a single, orderly way in (John 10:9).
• The curtain declares: approach is possible, but only by God’s appointed means (Leviticus 16:2).
To the tabernacleThe tabernacle is God’s dwelling among His people (Exodus 25:8).
• A portable Eden—God walking with Israel (Leviticus 26:11-12).
• Foreshadowing the Word who “tabernacled among us” (John 1:14).
• When Jesus died, “the veil of the temple was torn in two” (Matthew 27:51), opening direct access (Hebrews 10:19-22).
SummaryExodus 40:28 records the final act in setting up God’s earthly dwelling: Moses raises the entrance curtain. That single movement completes obedient preparation, establishes a holy boundary, and anticipates Christ, who would later rend the veil and invite us into unhindered fellowship with the Father.
(28)
The hanging at the door.--See above,
Exodus 40:5, and comp.
Exodus 26:36.
Verse 28. -
He set up the hangingat the door. He hung on the five pillars at the entrance to the tabernacle the "hanging" or ': curtain," which had been made for the purpose (
Exodus 36:37).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Then he put upוַיָּ֛שֶׂם(way·yā·śem)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7760:Put -- to put, place, setthe curtainמָסַ֥ךְ(mā·saḵ)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4539:A covering, screenat the entranceהַפֶּ֖תַח(hap·pe·ṯaḥ)Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 6607:An opening, door, entrance wayto the tabernacle.לַמִּשְׁכָּֽן׃(lam·miš·kān)Preposition-l, Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4908:A residence, the Tabernacle
Links
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Exodus 40:28 BibleApps.comExodus 40:28 Biblia ParalelaExodus 40:28 Chinese BibleExodus 40:28 French BibleExodus 40:28 Catholic Bible
OT Law: Exodus 40:28 He put up the screen (Exo. Ex) 
