Symbolism of the Hebrew Sanctuary Court Entrance

The entrance to the court of the Hebrew sanctuary signifies the vital meeting place between God and His people where the process of reconciliation beginsLUJ 86.1. This entrance was a wide opening of twenty cubits located on the east side of the court enclosure, which measured one hundred cubits in length by fifty cubits in breadth Exodus 27:12-16LUJ 86.1+1.

Structure and Materials

The entrance was distinguished from the rest of the court's white fine twined linen hangings by its ornate and beautiful design Exodus 27:9LUJ 86.1.

• The Hanging: The opening was closed by a hanging or vail made of blue, purple, scarlet, and fine twined linen, wrought with intricate needlework Exodus 38:18LUJ 129.1+1.

• Support: This gorgeous curtain was suspended upon four pillars of brass, which were set into four sockets of brass Exodus 27:16SBD Tabernacle.11.

• Symbolism of Color: The white linen used in the court represented purity, innocence, and the righteousness of the saints Revelation 19:8ETI Colour.4.

Spiritual Significance

The entrance to the court served as a profound symbol of how humanity may acceptably draw near to a holy GodLUJ 86.1.

• Accessibility for All: While only priests could enter the tabernacle building itself, all the people of Israel had access to the court through this gate to bring their offeringsCIS 176.2+1.

• The First Step of Ministry: The court represents the earthly phase of Christ's work, as all work performed in the court was typical of work done on the earthCIS 176.2+1.

• Meeting with God: Because the altar of burnt offering was placed near this entrance, the court became the primary meeting place between God and the congregation Exodus 29:42-43LUJ 86.1.

• Preparation for Service: Before the priests could pass from the court into the more sacred apartments of the sanctuary, they were required to wash their hands and feet at the brazen laver, which stood between the entrance and the tabernacle door Exodus 30:18-21T27 25.2.

Typological Lessons

The entrance and the court surrounding the sanctuary symbolize the beginning of the path to fellowship with the God of graceBHOTV2 107.1.

• Christ the Way: Just as the sanctuary was the dwelling place of God's glory, the entrance represents the way provided for the soul-temple to be renewed and transformed by the truthST August 6, 1885, par. 4+1.

• Breaking Barriers: In later times, a partition in the temple court separated Jews from Samaritans and Gentiles, but this "middle wall of partition" was broken down by Christ to provide equal access to allGCB February 13, 1895, page 143.4.

• The Sanctuary of the Heart: The physical court and its entrance remind us that the human heart must be cleared of worldly cares to make room for Jesus, who stands at the door knocking and pleading for entranceST August 6, 1885, par. 4.