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⇱ Numbers 4:26 the curtains of the courtyard, and the curtains for the entrance at the gate of the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and altar, along with their ropes and all the equipment for their service. The Gershonites will do all that needs to be done with these items.

Bible > Numbers > Chapter 4 > Verse 26
◄ Numbers 4:26 ►
New International Version
the curtains of the courtyard surrounding the tabernacle and altar, the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard, the ropes and all the equipment used in the service of the tent. The Gershonites are to do all that needs to be done with these things.

New Living Translation
They are also to carry the curtains for the courtyard walls that surround the Tabernacle and altar, the curtain across the courtyard entrance, the ropes, and all the equipment related to their use. The Gershonites are responsible for all these items.

English Standard Version
and the hangings of the court and the screen for the entrance of the gate of the court that is around the tabernacle and the altar, and their cords and all the equipment for their service. And they shall do all that needs to be done with regard to them.

Berean Standard Bible
the curtains of the courtyard, and the curtains for the entrance at the gate of the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and altar, along with their ropes and all the equipment for their service. The Gershonites will do all that needs to be done with these items.

King James Bible
And the hangings of the court, and the hanging for the door of the gate of the court, which is by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and their cords, and all the instruments of their service, and all that is made for them: so shall they serve.

New King James Version
the screen for the door of the gate of the court, the hangings of the court which are around the tabernacle and altar, and their cords, all the furnishings for their service and all that is made for these things: so shall they serve.

New American Standard Bible
and the curtains of the courtyard, the curtain for the entrance of the gate of the courtyard that is around the tabernacle and the altar, and their ropes and all the equipment for their service; and everything that is to be done by them, they shall perform.

NASB 1995
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the doorway of the gate of the court which is around the tabernacle and the altar, and their cords and all the equipment for their service; and all that is to be done, they shall perform.

NASB 1977
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the doorway of the gate of the court which is around the tabernacle and the altar, and their cords and all the equipment for their service; and all that is to be done, they shall perform.

Legacy Standard Bible
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the doorway of the gate of the court which is around the tabernacle and the altar, and their cords and all the equipment for their service; and all that is to be done, they shall perform.

Amplified Bible
and the hangings of the courtyard, and the curtain for the entrance of the gate of the courtyard which is around the tabernacle and the altar, and their tent ropes, and all the equipment for their service; and all that is to be done, they shall perform.

Christian Standard Bible
the hangings of the courtyard, the screen for the entrance at the gate of the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and the altar, along with their ropes and all the equipment for their service. They will carry out everything that needs to be done with these items.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
the hangings of the courtyard, the screen for the entrance at the gate of the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and the altar, along with their ropes and all the equipment for their service. They will carry out everything that needs to be done with these items.”

American Standard Version
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the door of the gate of the court, which is by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and their cords, and all the instruments of their service, and whatsoever shall be done with them: therein shall they serve.

Contemporary English Version
the curtains hanging around the courtyard of the tent, and the curtain and ropes for the entrance to the courtyard. The Gershonites are to do whatever needs to be done to take care of these things,

English Revised Version
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the door of the gate of the court, which is by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and their cords, and all the instruments of their service, and whatsoever shall be done with them, therein shall they serve.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
the curtains for the courtyard around the tent and the altar, the screen for the entrance to the courtyard, the ropes, and all the equipment used to set up the curtains. The Gershonites will do everything that needs to be done with these things.

Good News Translation
the curtains and ropes for the court that is around the Tent and the altar, the curtains for the entrance of the court, and all the fittings used in setting up these objects. They shall perform all the tasks required for these things.

International Standard Version
the hangings for the courtyard, the curtain for the entrance to the gate of the courtyard that surrounds the tent, the altar, the ropes, all the service utensils, and everything made for them. This is to be their service area.

NET Bible
the hangings for the courtyard, the curtain for the entrance of the gate of the court, which is around the tabernacle and the altar, and their ropes, along with all the furnishings for their service and everything that is made for them. So they are to serve.

New Heart English Bible
and the tapestries of the court, and the screen for the door of the gate of the court, which is by the tabernacle and around the altar, and their cords, and all the instruments of their service, and whatever shall be done with them. So they are to serve.

Webster's Bible Translation
And the hangings of the court, and the hanging for the door of the gate of the court, which is by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and their cords, and all the instruments of their service, and all that is made for them: so shall they serve.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
the curtains of the courtyard, and the curtains for the entrance at the gate of the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and altar, along with their ropes and all the equipment for their service. The Gershonites will do all that needs to be done with these items.

World English Bible
the hangings of the court, the screen for the door of the gate of the court which is by the tabernacle and around the altar, their cords, and all the instruments of their service, and whatever shall be done with them. They shall serve in there.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and the hangings of the court, and the veil at the opening of the gate of the court which [is] by the Dwelling Place, and by the altar all around, and their cords, and all the vessels of their service, and all that is made for them—and they have served.

Young's Literal Translation
and the hangings of the court, and the vail at the opening of the gate of the court which is by the tabernacle, and by the altar round about, and their cords, and all the vessels of their service, and all that is made for them -- and they have served.

Smith's Literal Translation
And the curtains of the enclosure, and the covering of the door of the gate of the enclosure which is by the dwelling and by the altar round about, and their cords, and all the vessels of their service, and all which shall be made for them: and they shall serve.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
The curtains of the court, and the veil in the entry that is before the tabernacle. All things that pertain to the altar, the cords and the vessels of the ministry,

Catholic Public Domain Version
the curtains of the atrium, and the veil at the entrance, which is before tabernacle. Everything that pertains to the altar, the cords, and the vessels of the ministry

New American Bible
the hangings of the court, the curtain at the entrance to the gate of the court that encloses both the tabernacle and the altar, together with their ropes and all other objects necessary for their use. Whatever is to be done to maintain these things, they shall do.

New Revised Standard Version
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the entrance of the gate of the court that is around the tabernacle and the altar, and their cords, and all the equipment for their service; and they shall do all that needs to be done with regard to them.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And the hangings of the court, and the hanging for the entrance of the door of the court which is by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and the cords thereof, and all the instruments of their service, and all that they do and serve.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And the curtain rods of the courtyard and the curtain of the entrance of the door of the courtyard that is next to the Tabernacle, and next to the altar as a circle, and their cords and all implements of their ministry, everything that they were performing and they were ministering.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
and the hangings of the court, and the screen for the door of the gate of the court, which is by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and their cords, and all the instruments of their service, and whatsoever there may be to do with them, therein shall they serve.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And all the curtains of the court which were upon the tabernacle of witness, and the appendages, and all the vessels of service that they minister with they shall attend to.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Duties of the Gershonites
…25They are to carry the curtains of the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting with the covering of fine leather over it, the curtains for the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, 26 the curtains of the courtyard, and the curtains for the entrance at the gate of the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and altar, along with their ropes and all the equipment for their service. The Gershonites will do all that needs to be done with these items. 27All the service of the Gershonites—all their transport duties and other work—is to be done at the direction of Aaron and his sons; you are to assign to them all that they are responsible to carry.…

Cross References
Exodus 26:1-14
“You are to construct the tabernacle itself with ten curtains of finely spun linen, each with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and cherubim skillfully worked into them. / Each curtain shall be twenty-eight cubits long and four cubits wide—all curtains the same size. / Five of the curtains are to be joined together, and the other five joined as well. ...

Exodus 36:8-19
All the skilled craftsmen among the workmen made the ten curtains for the tabernacle. They were made of finely spun linen, as well as blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully worked into them. / Each curtain was twenty-eight cubits long and four cubits wide; all the curtains were the same size. / And he joined five of the curtains together, and the other five he joined as well. ...

Exodus 40:19
Then he spread the tent over the tabernacle and put the covering over the tent, just as the LORD had commanded him.

1 Kings 8:4
and they brought up the ark of the LORD and the Tent of Meeting with all its sacred furnishings. So the priests and Levites carried them up.

2 Chronicles 5:5
and they brought up the ark and the Tent of Meeting with all its sacred furnishings. The Levitical priests carried them up.

Exodus 25:9
You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings according to the pattern I show you.

Exodus 35:11
the tabernacle with its tent and covering, its clasps and frames, its crossbars, posts, and bases;

Exodus 39:33
Then they brought the tabernacle to Moses: the tent with all its furnishings, its clasps, its frames, its crossbars, and its posts and bases;

Exodus 40:2
“On the first day of the first month you are to set up the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting.

Hebrews 9:1-5
Now the first covenant had regulations for worship and also an earthly sanctuary. / A tabernacle was prepared. In its first room were the lampstand, the table, and the consecrated bread. This was called the Holy Place. / Behind the second curtain was a room called the Most Holy Place, ...

Hebrews 8:5
The place where they serve is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.”

Acts 7:44
Our fathers had the tabernacle of the Testimony with them in the wilderness. It was constructed exactly as God had directed Moses, according to the pattern he had seen.

John 1:14
The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Revelation 21:3
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.

Exodus 40:17-19
So the tabernacle was set up on the first day of the first month of the second year. / When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases, positioned its frames, inserted its crossbars, and set up its posts. / Then he spread the tent over the tabernacle and put the covering over the tent, just as the LORD had commanded him.


Exodus 27:9
And thou shalt make the court of the tabernacle: for the south side southward there shall be hangings for the court of fine twined linen of an hundred cubits long for one side:

and their cords

Exodus 35:18
The pins of the tabernacle, and the pins of the court, and their cords,

Jump to Previous
Altar Cords Court Courtyard Curtain Curtains Door Doorway Entrance Equipment Gate Gershonites Hanging Hangings Instruments Necessary Needs Open Perform Regard Ropes Round Screen Serve Served Service Space Surrounding Tabernacle Therein Thereof Used Vail Vessels Whatever Whatsoever
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Altar Cords Court Courtyard Curtain Curtains Door Doorway Entrance Equipment Gate Gershonites Hanging Hangings Instruments Necessary Needs Open Perform Regard Ropes Round Screen Serve Served Service Space Surrounding Tabernacle Therein Thereof Used Vail Vessels Whatever Whatsoever
Numbers 4
1. The age at which the Levites were to serve, and the duration of the service
4. The duty of the Kohathites
16. The charge of Eleazar
17. The office of the priests
21. The duty of the Gershonites
29. Of the Merarites
34. The number of the Kohathites
38. Of the Gershonites
42. And of the Merarites














the curtains of the courtyard
The curtains of the courtyard were essential for delineating the sacred space of the tabernacle. They provided a physical boundary that separated the holy area from the common camp of the Israelites. The courtyard curtains were made of fine twisted linen, symbolizing purity and separation from sin. This separation is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing the holiness required to approach God (Exodus 27:9-19). The courtyard itself was a place where the Israelites could come to offer sacrifices and worship, foreshadowing the access believers have to God through Christ (Hebrews 10:19-22).

and the curtains for the entrance at the gate of the courtyard
The entrance gate of the courtyard was the only way to access the tabernacle, symbolizing the exclusivity of approaching God. This singular entrance points to the New Testament teaching that Jesus is the only way to the Father (John 14:6). The gate was made of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen, representing royalty, divinity, and sacrifice, which are fulfilled in Christ.

that surrounds the tabernacle and altar
The tabernacle and altar were central to Israelite worship, representing God's presence among His people and the means of atonement for sin. The altar was where sacrifices were made, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross (Hebrews 9:11-14). The surrounding curtains ensured that the sacredness of these objects was maintained, highlighting the need for reverence in worship.

along with their ropes and all the equipment for their service
The ropes and equipment were necessary for the assembly and disassembly of the tabernacle, reflecting the Israelites' nomadic lifestyle during their wilderness journey. This practical aspect of worship underscores the idea that serving God involves both spiritual and physical dedication. The detailed instructions for the tabernacle's construction and maintenance (Exodus 25-31) illustrate God's desire for order and precision in worship.

The Gershonites will do all that needs to be done with these items
The Gershonites, one of the Levitical families, were specifically tasked with the care and transportation of the tabernacle's curtains and coverings. This division of labor among the Levites highlights the importance of each person's role in the community of faith. It also reflects the New Testament teaching on the body of Christ, where each member has a unique function (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). The Gershonites' service was a vital part of maintaining the tabernacle, ensuring that worship could continue as the Israelites journeyed toward the Promised Land.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites during their journey in the wilderness. It was a portable sanctuary where God's presence dwelled among His people.

2. The Levites
Specifically, the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites, who were responsible for the care and transportation of the Tabernacle and its furnishings.

3. The Courtyard
The outer area surrounding the Tabernacle, enclosed by curtains, where the altar of burnt offering was located.

4. The Gershonites
One of the Levitical families tasked with the care of the curtains, coverings, and ropes of the Tabernacle.

5. The Wilderness Journey
The period during which the Israelites traveled from Egypt to the Promised Land, during which the Tabernacle was their center of worship.
Teaching Points
Faithfulness in Service
The Gershonites were entrusted with specific tasks. This teaches us the importance of being faithful in the roles God assigns to us, no matter how seemingly mundane.

Order and Structure
God's instructions for the Tabernacle were precise, reflecting His nature of order. Our worship and service should also reflect this orderliness.

Symbolism of the Tabernacle
The Tabernacle and its elements symbolize deeper spiritual truths, pointing to Christ and His redemptive work. Understanding these symbols enriches our faith.

Community and Cooperation
The Levites worked together, each family with its own responsibilities. This highlights the importance of community and cooperation in the body of Christ.

God's Presence
The Tabernacle was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the need for holiness and reverence.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Numbers 4:26?

2. How does Numbers 4:26 emphasize the importance of organized worship practices today?

3. What responsibilities are highlighted in Numbers 4:26 for the Levites' service?

4. How does Numbers 4:26 connect to New Testament teachings on church service?

5. In what ways can we apply the orderliness of Numbers 4:26 in our lives?

6. How does Numbers 4:26 reflect God's desire for structure in worship?

7. What is the significance of Numbers 4:26 in the context of Israelite worship practices?

8. How does Numbers 4:26 reflect the organization of the Levitical duties?

9. What does Numbers 4:26 reveal about the importance of the tabernacle in Israelite society?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Numbers 4?

11. Who were the Kohathites, Gershonites, and Merarites?

12. Exodus 26 - How do these tabernacle measurements align or conflict with other biblical or historical texts regarding the scale and feasibility of such a dwelling?

13. How do priests and Levites differ in their roles?

14. Acts 17:29 - If God is beyond images and idols, how do Old Testament instructions for sacred objects not contradict Paul's teaching here?
What Does Numbers 4:26 Mean
the curtains of the courtyard

Numbers 4:26 begins by naming “the curtains of the courtyard.” These linen hangings (Exodus 27:9-15) enclosed the outer perimeter of the tabernacle, creating a distinct, holy parameter between common space and the divine presence. Think of them as a visual reminder that God Himself draws clear lines—lines meant not to exclude, but to invite people to approach Him on His terms (Leviticus 10:3).

• The 100-cubits-long walls formed a rectangle, open only at the east (Exodus 27:18).

• White linen reflected purity, calling Israel to moral cleanliness (Isaiah 1:18).

• The curtains also sheltered worshipers from distractions, focusing hearts on sacrifice and fellowship with God (Psalm 84:10).

the curtains for the entrance at the gate of the courtyard that surrounds the tabernacle and altar

Unlike the plain side panels, the entrance curtain bore colorful embroidery (Exodus 27:16). By specifying it separately, the verse highlights the singular way into God’s dwelling. Jesus later declared, “I am the gate” (John 10:9), fulfilling the symbol.

• Only one opening—facing the sunrise—spoke of hope and new beginnings (Malachi 4:2).

• The altar standing inside that gate (Exodus 40:6) meant the first sight upon entry was sacrifice, foreshadowing Christ’s cross (Hebrews 9:12).

along with their ropes

Ropes (or cords) secured both the curtains and the entrance screen to their pillars and pegs (Exodus 35:18). God cared about every tether, insisting on stability and order (1 Corinthians 14:33).

• Loose cords could cause sagging, exposing sacred space to wandering animals or curious eyes.

• Properly fastened lines kept the structure square and true, reflecting the unchanging character of the Lord (James 1:17).

all the equipment for their service

This catch-all phrase embraces hooks, bands, poles, and pegs (Exodus 38:31). Nothing was miscellaneous in God’s inventory; each item had a role, reinforcing the idea that every believer’s gift and task matters (Romans 12:4-8).

• The detailed listing (Numbers 4:32) prevented loss or neglect.

• Accurate accounting also modeled integrity for an entire nation soon to enter Canaan (Deuteronomy 25:15-16).

the Gershonites will do all that needs to be done with these items

God assigned the clan of Gershon—the sons of Levi—to transport and maintain this fabric ministry (Numbers 3:25-26). They shouldered a holy yet humble job, teaching that visibility does not determine value (1 Peter 4:10-11).

• Their wagons carried curtains and ropes (Numbers 7:7), freeing Kohathites to bear the ark on shoulders (Numbers 7:9).

• By obeying Moses’ inventory list, the Gershonites participated directly in preserving God’s presence among the people (Deuteronomy 10:8).

summary

Numbers 4:26 spotlights God’s meticulous concern for His dwelling and for the people assigned to care for it. Curtains, ropes, and pegs may seem ordinary, yet each served the extraordinary purpose of guarding a meeting place between heaven and earth. The single gate pointed to the single Savior; the linen walls called Israel to purity; the Gershonites’ faithful service modeled quiet obedience. Taken literally and trusted fully, the verse assures us that every detail in God’s plan matters—and so does every person who follows His precise, loving instructions.

(26) Which is by the tabernacle and by the altar round about.--Or, which are . . . The curtains or hangings enclosed the whole of the court.Verse 26. - And their cords, and all the instruments of their service. Taking this verse in connection with verse 37, we must understand the word "their" as applying to the things mentioned in the previous verse. The Merarites carried the cords, etc. of the hangings of the court.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
the curtains
קַלְעֵ֨י (qal·‘ê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 7050: A sling, a, screen, the valve

of the courtyard,
הֶֽחָצֵ֜ר (he·ḥā·ṣêr)
Article | Noun - common singular
Strong's 2691: A yard, a hamlet

and
וְאֶת־ (wə·’eṯ-)
Conjunctive waw | Direct object marker
Strong's 853: Untranslatable mark of the accusative case

the curtains
מָסַ֣ךְ ׀ (mā·saḵ)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4539: A covering, screen

for the entrance
פֶּ֣תַח ׀ (pe·ṯaḥ)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 6607: An opening, door, entrance way

at the gate
שַׁ֣עַר (ša·‘ar)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 8179: An opening, door, gate

of the courtyard
הֶחָצֵ֗ר (he·ḥā·ṣêr)
Article | Noun - common singular
Strong's 2691: A yard, a hamlet

that
אֲשֶׁ֨ר (’ă·šer)
Pronoun - relative
Strong's 834: Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that

surrounds
עַל־ (‘al-)
Preposition
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against

the tabernacle
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֤ן (ham·miš·kān)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4908: A residence, the Tabernacle

and altar,
הַמִּזְבֵּ֙חַ֙ (ham·miz·bê·aḥ)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4196: An altar

along with their ropes
מֵֽיתְרֵיהֶ֔ם (mê·ṯə·rê·hem)
Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine plural
Strong's 4340: A cord, the string

and all
כָּל־ (kāl-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

the equipment
כְּלֵ֖י (kə·lê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 3627: Something prepared, any apparatus

for their service.
עֲבֹדָתָ֑ם (‘ă·ḇō·ḏā·ṯām)
Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine plural
Strong's 5656: Work of any kind

[The Gershonites] will do
וְעָבָֽדוּ׃ (wə·‘ā·ḇā·ḏū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - third person common plural
Strong's 5647: To work, to serve, till, enslave

all
כָּל־ (kāl-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

that
אֲשֶׁ֧ר (’ă·šer)
Pronoun - relative
Strong's 834: Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that

needs to be done
יֵעָשֶׂ֛ה (yê·‘ā·śeh)
Verb - Nifal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6213: To do, make

with these items.
לָהֶ֖ם (lā·hem)
Preposition | third person masculine plural
Strong's 0: 0


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OT Law: Numbers 4:26 And the hangings of the court (Nu Num.)