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Exodus 26:7 - Goat-hair sanctuary protection

Exodus 26:7 - שמות 26:7

Hebrew Text

וְעָשִׂיתָ יְרִיעֹת עִזִּים לְאֹהֶל עַל־הַמִּשְׁכָּן עַשְׁתֵּי־עֶשְׂרֵה יְרִיעֹת תַּעֲשֶׂה אֹתָם׃

English Translation

And thou shalt make curtains of goats’ hair to be a covering upon the tabernacle: eleven curtains shalt thou make.

Transliteration

Ve'asita yeriot izim le'ohel al-hamishkan ashtei-esreh yeriot ta'aseh otam.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְעָשִׂ֙יתָ֙ יְרִיעֹ֣ת עִזִּ֔ים לְאֹ֖הֶל עַל־הַמִּשְׁכָּ֑ן עַשְׁתֵּי־עֶשְׂרֵ֥ה יְרִיעֹ֖ת תַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה אֹתָֽם׃
וְעָשִׂ֙יתָ֙ יְרִיעֹ֣ת עִזִּ֔ים לְאֹ֖הֶל עַל־הַמִּשְׁכָּ֑ן עַשְׁתֵּי־עֶשְׂרֵ֥ה יְרִיעֹ֖ת תַּעֲשֶׂ֥ה אֹתָֽם׃

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Parasha Commentary

The Significance of the Goats' Hair Curtains

The verse (Shemot 26:7) commands the construction of eleven curtains made from goats' hair to serve as an outer covering for the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Rashi explains that these curtains were placed above the fine linen curtains (described earlier in the parsha) as an additional protective layer. The goats' hair covering is referred to as the "Ohel" (tent), while the inner covering is called the "Mishkan," indicating its more sacred nature.

Symbolism of the Number Eleven

The number eleven holds deep significance in this context. The Midrash Tanchuma (Terumah 9) notes that the eleven curtains correspond to the eleven celestial "curtains" that Hashem created to cover the heavens, as referenced in Iyov 9:8. Additionally, the Zohar (Terumah 152a) suggests that the eleven curtains parallel the eleven tribes (excluding Levi) who were responsible for the physical construction of the Mishkan, while the tribe of Levi attended to its spiritual service.

The Material: Goats' Hair

The choice of goats' hair as the material carries symbolic meaning. Ramban (Shemot 26:7) explains that goats' hair represents simplicity and humility, serving as a contrast to the more luxurious materials used in the inner Mishkan. This teaches that while the inner sanctum represents spiritual grandeur, the outer covering reminds us of the importance of modesty and practicality in serving Hashem.

  • Practical Protection: Ibn Ezra notes that goats' hair was durable and weather-resistant, providing essential protection for the delicate inner structure.
  • Connection to Yaakov: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 68:12) links this to Yaakov Avinu, who used goatskins to receive his father's blessing, suggesting that the Mishkan's covering atones for that episode.

Structural Details

The Talmud (Shabbat 28b) discusses the precise measurements of these curtains, noting that their combined width exceeded that of the Mishkan itself. This created an overhang that provided additional protection from the elements. The extra width also symbolizes how the Divine Presence extends beyond the physical boundaries of the Mishkan, permeating the entire camp of Israel.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why were the curtains of the Mishkan made from goat hair?
A: According to Rashi (Exodus 26:7), the curtains made from goat hair served as an outer covering for the Mishkan (Tabernacle), protecting the finer inner curtains. Goat hair was durable and weather-resistant, symbolizing both physical protection and humility—qualities important in serving Hashem.
Q: Why were there specifically 11 curtains for the Mishkan?
A: The 11 curtains correspond to the dimensions of the Mishkan. The Talmud (Shabbat 98b) explains that the measurements were divinely ordained to create a precise and harmonious structure. The odd number (11) also teaches that every detail in the Mishkan had spiritual significance, reflecting Hashem's meticulous guidance.
Q: What can we learn from the construction of the Mishkan's curtains today?
A: The Midrash (Tanchuma, Terumah 8) teaches that the Mishkan's details mirror our service to Hashem. Just as the goat-hair curtains protected the Mishkan, we must protect our spiritual commitments with diligence and humility. The precise craftsmanship also reminds us to approach mitzvot with care and attention to detail.
Q: How does the Mishkan's structure relate to Jewish life today?
A: The Rambam (Hilchot Beit HaBechirah 1:1) explains that the Mishkan was a prototype for the Beit HaMikdash (Holy Temple). Its design teaches that holiness can exist in physical spaces. Today, we apply this by treating our homes and synagogues with reverence, making them places where Hashem's presence can dwell.