Book of Exodus - Chapter 36 - Verse 16

In this verse from the book of Exodus, we see the detailed instructions given by God to Moses regarding the construction of the Tabernacle. The Tabernacle was a portable sanctuary where the Israelites could worship and offer sacrifices to God during their journey through the wilderness. The instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle were very specific, down to the smallest details. In this particular verse, God instructs Moses to couple five curtains together and six curtains together separately. This was part of the process of creating the covering for the Tabernacle, which was made up of layers of fine linen curtains. Each set of curtains was to be coupled together in a specific way to create a unified and beautiful covering for the Tabernacle. This attention to detail and precision in following God's instructions highlights the importance of reverence and obedience in worshiping God.

Within the context of Exodus 26:3, the theological interpretation of the coupling of five curtains by themselves and six curtains by themselves provides insight into the symbolic significance of numbers in the Bible. In biblical numerology, five often represents God's grace and favor toward humanity, while six is associated with mankind and human imperfection. By coupling these two sets of curtains separately, there may be a theological lesson about the harmonious integration of God's grace with human efforts. The meticulous instructions for the construction of the tabernacle, including the arrangement of the curtains, highlight the importance of both divine provision and human diligence in fulfilling God's purposes.