Curtains of Fine Twined Linen

Four sets of curtains are mentioned. In our picture we shall see each covering is rolled back in a way to show those that are beneath. The first, or under covering, consisted of ten curtains of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet. These were coupled together in such a way as to form one curtain, and were called the tabernacle, probably because they were the innermost covering of the tabernacle, and it would be roofless until this covering was put over it. We may gather precious thoughts from the various materials used. The fine linen, “clean and white,” mentioned in different parts of Scripture, conveys the thought of spotless purity, and is so used as a symbol. “Blue” speaks of what is heavenly; the symbols used of God are always according to nature; for instance, the earth is carpeted with green, and its many beautiful foliages and deckings are in green; but green is never found among the symbolic colors of Scripture. But if we look into the azure of the vaulted heavens, we find a color that is used to set forth that which is heavenly. “Purple” is the royal color. When Jesus was made a mock king, they put upon Him a purple robe (John 19:2). “Scarlet” speaks of earthly glory (Rev. 17:3-4). Also it makes mention of the scarlet robe, when in mockery they bowed the knee before Him. In Jesus we find these glories combined. “In Him is no sin”; He was the only pure and spotless One. He only could say, “I am from above” (heavenly blue); He is coming “King of kings” (purple); He was born “King of the Jews” (scarlet). Thus we have Christ again brought before us. He will come in heavenly power and glory; He will reign over the earth, and earthly glory will be His also.