This guide gives you ready-to-use Bible study questions for Exodus 26, the chapter describing the curtains, boards, bars and veils of the tabernacle. It is written for small groups, Sunday classes and personal study, and each question comes with a leader’s note so you can run the discussion without preparing a separate summary.
Exodus 26 at a Glance
Exodus 26 is the second half of God’s instructions for the tabernacle, the portable sanctuary Israel would carry through the wilderness. The chapter moves inward, starting with the linen curtains that form the inner dwelling, then the goat-hair covering over them, then the upright acacia boards set in silver sockets. It ends with the inner veil that divides the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, and the screen at the entrance.
The pattern is one of careful measurement and repetition. Lengths, widths, counts of loops and clasps are given precisely, which tells you the builders were to follow a design revealed to Moses, not improvise. Keep that precision in mind as you study, because much of the chapter’s meaning lies in the fact that God cared about every detail of how he would dwell among his people.
Observation Questions
Use these questions first, before anyone offers an interpretation. Ask the group to point to the verses that answer each one, and read them aloud together so the text, not opinion, leads the discussion.
Exodus 26:1
“Moreover you shall make the tabernacle with ten curtains; of fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet, with cherubim. The work of the skillful workman you shall make them.
(WEB)
This verse opens the chapter’s instructions for the inner curtains, naming their materials and the cherubim. Reading it aloud sets the tone for the whole study by reminding the group that God gave the design himself.
Exodus 26:15-16
15 “You shall make the boards for the tabernacle of acacia wood, standing up. 16 Ten cubits shall be the length of a board, and one and a half cubits the width of each board.
(WEB)
These verses introduce the upright acacia boards and their dimensions. Hearing the structure described in plain terms helps the group picture the physical dwelling Israel built in the wilderness.
Exodus 26:30
You shall set up the tabernacle according to the way that it was shown to you on the mountain.
(WEB)
This verse ties the whole construction to what Moses was shown on the mountain. Reading it aloud highlights the theme of obedience to a revealed pattern that runs through the chapter.
Exodus 26:33
You shall hang up the veil under the clasps, and shall bring the ark of the testimony in there within the veil: and the veil shall separate the holy place from the most holy for you.
(WEB)
This verse names the veil’s purpose, dividing the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. Reading it slowly gives the group space to discuss the meaning of separation and access.
Exodus 26:34
You shall put the mercy seat on the ark of the testimony in the most holy place.
(WEB)
Verse 34 places the mercy seat on the ark in the Most Holy Place. Reading it aloud draws attention to the central object of the dwelling and the place where God’s presence was understood to be.
Memory Verse for Exodus 26
A Closing Prayer for the Group
Father, we thank you that you gave Israel a clear pattern for the tabernacle and cared about every detail of the dwelling you chose among your people. Help us to take your revealed word seriously in our own worship and daily obedience, and to trust that you are holy and near. Join us together as your people, the way the curtains were joined into one dwelling, and teach us to honor the access you have given us with reverence and gratitude. Keep our hearts open to your presence as we go from this study back into our ordinary days. Amen.
