The Veil of Splendor: A Reflection on Exodus 36:35
"¶ And he made a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: with cherubims made he it of cunning work." - Exodus 36:35

In Exodus 36:35, we see a meticulous craftsmanship come to life in the sanctuary's veil: "And he made a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: with cherubims made he it of cunning work." This verse encapsulates the intricate beauty of God’s dwelling place among His people, highlighting the significance of the veil not only in its physical attributes but also in its profound spiritual implications.
Craftsmanship is an art form that requires dedication, talent, and an eye for detail. Craftsmen take raw materials and transform them into something magnificent, something that serves a divine purpose. The artisan tasked with creating this veil, most notably Bezalel, showcased these qualities in his work. Every fiber of blue, purple, and scarlet linen was chosen with intention and prayer. The fine twined linen symbolized purity and righteousness, while the colors themselves—often associated with royalty—testified to the majesty and holiness of God.
The veil served as a barrier, delineating the sacred from the common, the holy from the unholy. In the tabernacle, the veil separated the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies, where God’s presence dwelt in a unique way. It reminds us that access to God is both a privilege and a responsibility. The intricate work of the cherubims woven into the veil serves as a reminder of the heavenly beings who stand guard, continuously worshipping before the throne. It elicits a sense of awe and reverence, highlighting the holiness of God and the sacredness of communion with Him.
In our modern-day lives, we may not encounter physical veils, but we often experience spiritual veils that hinder our relationship with God. These veils can be layers of doubt, sin, guilt, or distractions that keep us from experiencing His fullness. Just as the veil was woven with care and intention, our lives also require intentionality in seeking a deeper relationship with God.
This verse prompts us to ask ourselves: What veils exist in my life that prevent me from drawing near to God? Is it a preoccupation with worldly concerns, a wound that has not healed, or perhaps a lingering resentment? Each of these can act as a veil, hindering our access to the throne of grace.
Furthermore, it’s essential to remember the transformative work of Christ. When He breathed His last on the cross, the Gospel of Matthew records that "the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom" (Matthew 27:51 KJV). This act signifies the removal of any barrier between God and humanity. Through His sacrifice, we gain direct access to God’s presence; we no longer need an earthly veil to intercede for us. This is a powerful reminder of the grace of God and the lengths to which He went to restore relationship with us.
As we meditate on Exodus 36:35, let us ponder the beauty and significance of the veil crafted for God’s dwelling. May we appreciate the craftsmanship that symbolizes our intricate relationship with the Creator. Let us also consider the veils present in our hearts and lives, seeking to remove them in the light of His grace. Each time we come before God in prayer, worship, or quiet reflection, let us remember that we are invited into His presence, called to revel in the splendor of His holiness—a privilege won for us through the ultimate sacrifice of His Son.
As we move through our day, let us remember to approach with awe as did the Israelites who entered the tabernacle. The veil speaks not only of separation but also of God’s ever-present invitation to draw closer. May our lives be woven with the colors of faith, hope, and love as we live out the truth that we are welcomed into the holiness of His presence.
Want to reflect more on Exodus 36:35?
Continue your spiritual journey with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, discover connections, and deepen your understanding.
Get Our Apps
Exodus 36:35 Artwork
Exodus 36:35 - "¶ And he made a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: with cherubims made he it of cunning work."
"¶ And he made a vail of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: with cherubims made he it of cunning work." - Exodus 36:35
Exodus 32.15-35
Leviticus 19:35-36 - "Do not use dishonest standards when measuring length, weight or quantity. Use honest scales and honest weights, an honest ephah and an honest hin. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt."
Exodus 39:36 - "The table, and all the vessels thereof, and the shewbread,"
Exodus 16:36 - "Now an omer is the tenth part of an ephah."
Exodus 35:18 - "The pins of the tabernacle, and the pins of the court, and their cords,"
Exodus 39:35 - "The ark of the testimony, and the staves thereof, and the mercy seat,"
Ezekiel 36:35 - "And they shall say, This land that was desolate is become like the garden of Eden; and the waste and desolate and ruined cities are become fenced, and are inhabited."
Exodus 35:9 - "And onyx stones, and stones to be set for the ephod, and for the breastplate."
Exodus 35:6 - "And blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats' hair,"
Exodus 35:32 - "And to devise curious works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass,"
Exodus 35:8 - "And oil for the light, and spices for anointing oil, and for the sweet incense,"
Exodus 35:12 - "The ark, and the staves thereof, with the mercy seat, and the vail of the covering,"
Exodus 36:36 - "And he made thereunto four pillars of shittim wood, and overlaid them with gold: their hooks were of gold; and he cast for them four sockets of silver."
Exodus 36:27 - "And for the sides of the tabernacle westward he made six boards."
The Plague of Hail - Exodus 9:13-35
The Plague of Hail - Exodus 9:13-35
Exodus 35:13 - "The table, and his staves, and all his vessels, and the shewbread,"
Exodus 35:28 - "And spice, and oil for the light, and for the anointing oil, and for the sweet incense."
Exodus 35:27 - "And the rulers brought onyx stones, and stones to be set, for the ephod, and for the breastplate;"
Exodus 35:7 - "And rams' skins dyed red, and badgers' skins, and shittim wood,"
Exodus 36:7 - "For the stuff they had was sufficient for all the work to make it, and too much."
Genesis 36:35 - "And Husham died, and Hadad the son of Bedad, who smote Midian in the field of Moab, reigned in his stead: and the name of his city was Avith."
Exodus 36:28 - "And two boards made he for the corners of the tabernacle in the two sides."
Exodus 36:20 - "¶ And he made boards for the tabernacle of shittim wood, standing up."
Exodus 36:16 - "And he coupled five curtains by themselves, and six curtains by themselves."
The Plague of Hail - Exodus 9:13-35
The Plague of Hail - Exodus 9:13-35
Exodus 35:20 - "¶ And all the congregation of the children of Israel departed from the presence of Moses."