Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Exodus 26:9 mean about the curtains in the Tabernacle?
A: This verse describes how the curtains for the Mishkan (Tabernacle) were to be arranged. Five curtains were to be joined together separately, and six curtains were to be joined together separately, with the sixth curtain folded double at the front of the Tabernacle. Rashi explains that this arrangement created an overlap for proper coverage and beauty in the Mishkan's structure.
Q: Why were the curtains arranged in groups of five and six in Exodus 26:9?
A: The division into five and six curtains served both a practical and symbolic purpose. According to the Talmud (Shabbat 98b), this arrangement ensured the Mishkan's proper dimensions and structural integrity. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah) also suggests that the numbers hint at deeper spiritual concepts, such as the five books of Torah and the six days of creation.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the folding of the sixth curtain in Exodus 26:9?
A: The doubling of the sixth curtain teaches the importance of extra care and attention in holy matters. The Rambam (Hilchot Beit HaBechirah) derives from this that we should beautify mitzvot and sacred objects. Just as the Mishkan's curtains were arranged with precision, we should approach our service to Hashem with thoughtfulness and dedication.
Q: How does the Tabernacle's curtain arrangement apply to us today?
A: While we no longer have the physical Mishkan, the principles remain relevant. The Vilna Gaon teaches that just as the curtains were carefully arranged to create a dwelling place for the Divine Presence, our homes and synagogues should be structured to facilitate holiness. The attention to detail in the Mishkan's construction reminds us to value quality in our spiritual spaces.
Q: What was the purpose of having different groups of curtains in the Tabernacle?
A: The two groups of curtains (five and six) created a layered covering for the Mishkan. As explained in the Zohar, this represents different levels of divine protection and revelation. The outer covering (six curtains) provided physical protection, while the inner covering (five curtains) represented more spiritual dimensions, showing how the Mishkan connected heaven and earth.
Context in the Construction of the Mishkan
The verse (Shemot 26:9) describes the arrangement of the curtains (yeriot) that formed the roof of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). There were two sets of curtains: one consisting of five and the other of six, with the sixth curtain folded over at the front. This configuration was part of the Divine instruction for building a dwelling place for the Shechinah (Divine Presence).
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (ad loc.) explains that the five curtains were joined to form one large section, and the six were joined separately. The sixth curtain of the larger set was folded back to cover the front of the Mishkan, creating an overhang. This doubling served both a functional and symbolic purpose:
Rambam's Perspective on Precision
Rambam (Hilchot Beit HaBechirah 1:15) emphasizes that every detail of the Mishkan's construction was Divinely ordained and had profound significance. The specific arrangement of the curtains—five and six, with the sixth folded—reflects the precision required in avodat Hashem (service of G-d). Even the smallest deviation would diminish the Mishkan's sanctity.
Midrashic Interpretation
The Midrash Tanchuma (Terumah 8) connects the five and six curtains to broader themes:
Kabbalistic Insight
The Zohar (Terumah 129a) interprets the doubling of the sixth curtain as a reflection of the balance between chesed (kindness) and gevurah (judgment). The Mishkan's structure harmonized these Divine attributes, allowing the Shechinah to dwell within Israel in a measured and accessible way.
Practical Lesson in Avodah
Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch (commentary on Shemot 26:9) highlights that the doubling of the curtain teaches the importance of humility in approaching holiness. Just as the curtain was folded back rather than displayed openly, we must approach Divine service with modesty and reverence.