King James Version
What Does Exodus 26:6 Mean?
“And thou shalt make fifty taches of gold, and couple the curtains together with the taches: and it shall be one tabernacle.”
Exodus 26:6 · KJV
Context
4
And thou shalt make loops of blue upon the edge of the one curtain from the selvedge in the coupling; and likewise shalt thou make in the uttermost edge of another curtain, in the coupling of the second.
5
Fifty loops shalt thou make in the one curtain, and fifty loops shalt thou make in the edge of the curtain that is in the coupling of the second; that the loops may take hold one of another.
6
And thou shalt make fifty taches of gold, and couple the curtains together with the taches: and it shall be one tabernacle.
7
And thou shalt make curtains of goats' hair to be a covering upon the tabernacle: eleven curtains shalt thou make.
8
The length of one curtain shall be thirty cubits, and the breadth of one curtain four cubits: and the eleven curtains shall be all of one measure.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryFifty gold clasps (קֶרֶס, qeres) join the loops, making the tabernacle 'one.' Gold represents deity—God Himself joins what was separated, creating unity. The number fifty relates to Pentecost (50th day) when the Spirit descended, creating the church. Just as gold clasps united the curtains into one tabernacle, the Holy Spirit unites believers into one body—Christ's dwelling place. Unity is a divine act, not human achievement.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
These golden taches or clasps hooked through the blue loops, firmly joining the two sets of five curtains. The gold construction ensured durability while the design allowed for assembly and disassembly as Israel traveled.
Reflection Questions
- How does the Holy Spirit serve as the 'golden clasp' uniting believers?
- Why is spiritual unity ultimately God's work rather than ours?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 14 wordsוְעָשִׂ֕יתָ1 of 14
“And thou shalt make”
H6213to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
זָהָ֑ב4 of 14
“of gold”
H2091gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
וְחִבַּרְתָּ֙5 of 14
“and couple”
H2266to join (literally or figuratively); specifically (by means of spells) to fascinate
אֶת6 of 14
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
וְהָיָ֥ה12 of 14
H1961to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֖ן13 of 14
“tabernacle”
H4908a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Exodus 26:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Exodus 26:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge