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Book of Exodus - Chapter 26 - Verse 14

26:14
And thou shalt make a covering for the tent of rams' skins dyed red, and a covering above of badgers' skins.

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Exodus in the Bible, God instructs Moses to create coverings for the tent of meeting using specific materials. The covering for the tent was to be made of rams' skins dyed red, symbolizing sacrifice and blood atonement. This covering served as a reminder of the Israelites' need for forgiveness and reconciliation with God through the shedding of blood. The layer of badgers' skins above the rams' skin covering provided protection from the elements, emphasizing the importance of both spiritual symbolism and practicality in worship. This verse demonstrates God's attention to detail and care for his people, ensuring that even the tabernacle's coverings were rich in significance and symbolism.

Theological Overview

The covering of rams' skins dyed red and badgers' skins in the context of the Bible was used as a protective layer for the tent of meeting, where God would dwell amongst the Israelites. The use of rams' skins dyed red symbolizes sacrifice and bloodshed, a reminder of the atonement for sins through the shedding of blood. This foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who would shed his blood to redeem humanity from sin. The badgers' skins, on the other hand, were durable and provided a strong outer layer of protection for the tent. Some scholars believe that the choice of badgers' skins for this purpose represents the idea of earthly protection and covering, mirroring God's divine protection over his people.

American Standard Version

And thou shalt make a covering for the tent of rams' skins dyed red, and a covering of sealskins above.
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