Old Testament
Exodus 38:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The screen for the gate of the courtyard was embroidered with blue, purple, and scarlet, and made of fine twined linen. It was 20 cubits long and 5 cubits high, matching the height of the courtyard curtains.
Compare translations
And the hanging for the gate of the court was needlework, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: and twenty cubits was the length, and the height in the breadth was five cubits, answerable to the hangings of the court.
What Exodus 38:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we learn about the beautiful entrance to the courtyard of the tabernacle. The gate was adorned with vibrant colors: blue, purple, and scarlet, which symbolize royalty and divinity. Made from fine twined linen, it was not only visually stunning but also practical, standing 20 cubits long and 5 cubits high. This height matched the surrounding curtains, creating a harmonious look. The craftsmanship reflects the care and attention given to the place where people would meet with God. The colors and materials used were significant, representing the beauty and holiness of God's presence. This gate served as a reminder of the importance of approaching God with reverence and awe. It was a physical barrier that also symbolized the separation between the sacred and the ordinary, inviting people to enter into a special relationship with the divine. The design of the gate encourages us to appreciate the beauty in our spiritual lives and the importance of creating spaces that honor our connection with God.
How to apply Exodus 38:18 to your life
Consider how you can create beauty in your own life that reflects your values and beliefs. Just as the gate was designed to honor God, think about how your surroundings can inspire a sense of reverence. Small changes can make a big difference in your spiritual journey and daily life. Embrace the beauty around you and let it draw you closer to your purpose and faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Exodus 38:18
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Exodus 38:18
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 38:18 mean?
Exodus 38:18 describes the gate of the courtyard of the tabernacle, highlighting its beautiful embroidery in blue, purple, and scarlet, made from fine linen. This verse emphasizes the significance of beauty and craftsmanship in the design of sacred spaces, reflecting the holiness of God's presence.
What is the significance of the colors in Exodus 38:18?
The colors blue, purple, and scarlet in Exodus 38:18 symbolize royalty, divinity, and the beauty of God's presence. These colors were intentionally chosen to convey the importance of the tabernacle as a sacred meeting place between God and His people.
What does the height of the gate in Exodus 38:18 represent?
The height of the gate, which is 5 cubits, matches the height of the surrounding curtains, creating a harmonious and unified appearance. This design choice signifies the importance of balance and order in the sacred space of the tabernacle.
How can I apply the message of Exodus 38:18 to my life?
You can apply the message of Exodus 38:18 by creating beauty in your own environment that reflects your values and beliefs. Consider how your surroundings can inspire reverence and enhance your spiritual journey, just as the gate was designed to honor God.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.