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Exodus 36:12 - Divine details of Mishkan construction

Exodus 36:12 - שמות 36:12

Hebrew Text

חֲמִשִּׁים לֻלָאֹת עָשָׂה בַּיְרִיעָה הָאֶחָת וַחֲמִשִּׁים לֻלָאֹת עָשָׂה בִּקְצֵה הַיְרִיעָה אֲשֶׁר בַּמַּחְבֶּרֶת הַשֵּׁנִית מַקְבִּילֹת הַלֻּלָאֹת אַחַת אֶל־אֶחָת׃

English Translation

Fifty loops made he in one curtain, and fifty loops made he in the edge of the curtain which was in the second coupling: the loops held one curtain to another.

Transliteration

Chamishim lula'ot asah bay'riah ha'achat vachamishim lula'ot asah bik'tzeh hay'riah asher bamachberet hashenit makbilot halula'ot achat el-achat.

Hebrew Leining Text

חֲמִשִּׁ֣ים לֻלָאֹ֗ת עָשָׂה֮ בַּיְרִיעָ֣ה הָאֶחָת֒ וַחֲמִשִּׁ֣ים לֻלָאֹ֗ת עָשָׂה֙ בִּקְצֵ֣ה הַיְרִיעָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֖ר בַּמַּחְבֶּ֣רֶת הַשֵּׁנִ֑ית מַקְבִּילֹת֙ הַלֻּ֣לָאֹ֔ת אַחַ֖ת אֶל־אֶחָֽת׃
חֲמִשִּׁ֣ים לֻלָאֹ֗ת עָשָׂה֮ בַּיְרִיעָ֣ה הָאֶחָת֒ וַחֲמִשִּׁ֣ים לֻלָאֹ֗ת עָשָׂה֙ בִּקְצֵ֣ה הַיְרִיעָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֖ר בַּמַּחְבֶּ֣רֶת הַשֵּׁנִ֑ית מַקְבִּילֹת֙ הַלֻּ֣לָאֹ֔ת אַחַ֖ת אֶל־אֶחָֽת׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Exodus 36:12) describes the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle), specifically the joining of the curtains (yeriot) that formed its covering. The verse details how the curtains were connected using loops (lula'ot) and clasps to create a unified structure.

Explanation of the Loops (Lula'ot)

Rashi explains that the lula'ot were loops made of blue wool, attached to the edges of the curtains. These loops were precisely aligned ("machbilot") so that each loop on one curtain would correspond to a loop on the adjacent curtain, allowing them to be joined with golden clasps (kerashim). This meticulous alignment symbolizes the unity and harmony required in the service of Hashem.

Symbolism of the Fifty Loops

  • Numerical Significance: The number fifty corresponds to the fifty gates of understanding (Binah), as mentioned in Kabbalistic teachings (see Zohar and Ramban). This suggests that the Mishkan's construction required divine wisdom.
  • Unity of the Jewish People: The loops binding the curtains together represent the unity of Klal Yisrael, as the Mishkan was a communal project built through collective effort (Midrash Tanchuma, Terumah 9).

Structural Precision

The Malbim emphasizes that the exact matching of the loops ("machbilot") teaches the importance of precision in fulfilling mitzvot. Just as the curtains had to align perfectly, so too must our actions align with Torah’s commandments without deviation.

Connection to the Mishkan's Purpose

The Or HaChaim notes that the joining of the curtains mirrors the spiritual connection between heaven and earth facilitated by the Mishkan. The loops and clasps symbolize the bond between the physical and divine realms, enabling the Shechinah to dwell among Bnei Yisrael.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the significance of the 50 loops mentioned in Exodus 36:12?
A: The 50 loops on each curtain of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) symbolize the connection and unity between the different parts of the structure. According to Rashi, these loops were perfectly aligned ('one opposite the other') to show how every detail in the Mishkan was carefully designed by Hashem to create harmony in His dwelling place.
Q: Why does the Torah give such detailed instructions about the Mishkan's construction?
A: The Rambam explains that the detailed instructions teach us the importance of precision when fulfilling mitzvot. Just as the Mishkan required exact measurements and careful craftsmanship, we must approach Torah and mitzvot with attention to detail and reverence for Hashem's commandments.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the loops connecting the curtains of the Mishkan?
A: The Midrash teaches that the interconnected loops represent Jewish unity. Just as the curtains were joined together to form one complete structure, Klal Yisrael (the Jewish people) must remain united in serving Hashem. This teaches us the value of working together for a shared spiritual purpose.
Q: How does the construction of the Mishkan apply to our lives today?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 72a) compares the Mishkan to every individual Jew - just as the Mishkan housed the Divine Presence, each person can become a 'dwelling place' for holiness through Torah study and mitzvot. The precise construction reminds us to build our spiritual lives with care and dedication.
Q: What was the purpose of having two sets of 50 loops facing each other?
A: Rashi explains that the loops were made to correspond exactly ('one opposite the other') so the curtains could be securely fastened together with gold clasps. This teaches us that proper connections in spiritual matters require preparation and alignment - we must prepare ourselves properly to connect with kedusha (holiness).