The Veil Was Torn from Top to Bottom
What is the significance of the torn curtain?
Hang the curtain from the clasps and place the ark of the covenant law behind the curtain. The curtain will separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. Exodus 26:33 NIV
The Temple curtain hung between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place. It was a symbol of the separation of sinful man from the presence of God. The curtain was designed as God’s protection — a barrier until sin could be atoned for.
The High Priest was the only one allowed to enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year to atone for the sins of man.
Unlike the photo above, the Temple curtain was made of cloth that was as thick as a man’s hand.
It was 30 feet wide — 5 times wider than a full-size bed!
It was 60 feet long — as long as a bowling lane!
It took 300 men to carry it.
This was no flimsy shower curtain.
With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last. The curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. Mark 15:37–38 (NIV)
The curtain was massive. No one could have torn it themselves. It would have taken super-human strength. And that’s exactly what happened. God Himself…
