The Tabernacle was covered with four distinct curtains or coverings, each with specific construction details and symbolic significance.

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1. Curtains of Fine Twined Linen

(Exodus 26:1-6)

The fine linen curtains, woven with blue, purple, and scarlet, formed the inner ceiling of the Tabernacle. These curtains were constructed in two large sections, each made from five smaller panels sewn together.

The two sections were joined along their selvedges (the reinforced edges of the fabric) using fifty loops on each side and fifty metal clasps (taches) that connected the loops. Scripture notes that through this method, the ten curtains became “one Tabernacle of fine twined linen”, emphasizing unity.

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2. Curtain of Goats’ Hair

(Exodus 26:7–13)

Placed over the linen curtains was a covering made of goats’ hair, often referred to in scripture as the “tent” of the Tabernacle. This covering consisted of eleven panels, each four cubits wide and thirty cubits long.

Because it was one cubit longer on each side than the linen covering, it extended to the ground and fully protected the inner curtain. The eleven panels were divided into two groups—one of five panels and one of six—which were joined together using fifty loops and fifty brass clasps.

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3. Rams’ Skins Dyed Red

(Exodus 26:14)

The rams’ skins dyed red formed the next covering. Scripture gives no measurements for this layer, describing it only as a “covering for the tent.”

Throughout the Old Testament, rams played a significant role in trespass offerings, burnt offerings, peace offerings, and the consecration of priests (Leviticus 5:15; 8:18, 22; 9:4). A ram symbolizes strength and completeness. The red dye represents sacrificial blood and cleansing from sin.

The first mention of a ram in the Bible appears in the account of Abraham and Isaac on Mount Moriah, where a ram was offered as a substitute for Isaac (Genesis 22:8–13).

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4. Badgers’ Skins Covering

(Exodus 26:14)

The outermost layer was the badgers’ skins covering. Like the rams’ skins, no measurements are provided. Biblical scholars have long debated the exact animal referred to by the translation of the word “badger.” Suffice it to say it was a durable leather of some sort.