Original Word: קִיצוֹן
Part of Speech: Adjective
Transliteration: qiytsown
Pronunciation: kit-SOHN
Phonetic Spelling: (kee-tsone')
KJV: out-(utter-)most
NASB: outermost
Word Origin: [from H6972 (קוּץ - To loathe)]

1. terminal

outmost, uttermost

From quwts; terminal -- out- (utter-)most.

see HEBREW quwts

Word Origin
from qatsats
Definition
at the end, outermost
NASB Translation
outermost (4).

[קִיצוֺן] adjective at the end, outermost; — feminine singular קִיצֹנָה, of curtain (יְרִיעָה) Exodus 26:4,10 a = Exodus 36:11,17a; insert also probably Exodus 26:10b = Exodus 36:17b so Kit (in Di) Baen.

Definition and Scope of Usage

The term appears only four times, all in the instructions for and the construction of the wilderness tabernacle (Exodus 26:4; 26:10; 36:11; 36:17). In each verse it qualifies the curtain that forms the extremity of a set, describing the “outermost” or “end” panel. Thus its sphere of meaning is limited but precise: the final curtain at the edge of a grouping.

Context within the Tabernacle Blueprints

Exodus devotes two full blocks to the tabernacle—the divine blueprint (chapters 25–31) and the people’s faithful execution (chapters 35–40). In both, קִיצוֹן marks the curtain that meets another set at a juncture of loops and clasps:

• “Make loops of blue yarn on the edge of the outermost curtain in the first set, and do likewise on the edge of the outermost curtain in the second set” (Exodus 26:4).
• “He made loops of blue yarn on the edge of the outermost curtain in the first set, and likewise on the edge of the outermost curtain in the second set” (Exodus 36:11).

The word therefore governs the point where two separate fabric groups would be joined into one continuous covering for the dwelling.

Symbolic and Theological Themes

1. Unity out of plurality. The “outermost” curtains were not isolated pieces; they existed to be linked to their counterparts by fifty loops and gold clasps. The term quietly underscores the biblical principle that individual components, fitted together precisely as God directs, form a single sanctuary (compare Ephesians 2:21).
2. Order and boundary. By identifying the very edge of a sacred covering, the word affirms that holiness entails well-defined limits. Nothing in the tabernacle scheme is haphazard; every boundary is set by divine decree (Numbers 3:38).
3. Covenant fidelity. The identical occurrence in both instruction and implementation shows Israel’s obedience “just as the LORD had commanded Moses” (Exodus 39:42). The faithful reproduction of the most minute details—including the designation of an “outermost” curtain—confirms the dependability of Scripture’s historical witness.

Historical and Cultural Background

The construction required skilled artisans able to distinguish each segment of a large textile ensemble. Recognizing an “outermost” curtain ensured that the sets were oriented correctly before joining, preventing misalignment that could jeopardize the fit of the entire structure. Such precision reflects the high value ancient Near Eastern culture placed on craftsmanship, especially in royal or cultic contexts.

Christological Significance

John 1:14 declares, “The Word became flesh and tabernacled among us.” The meticulous language of the tabernacle foreshadows the exact correspondence between type and fulfillment in Christ. The “outermost” curtain that completes and encloses anticipates the saving work of the Messiah who “holds all things together” (Colossians 1:17). No strand in the pattern is superfluous; each thread testifies to the perfection of the true dwelling of God with humanity.

Implications for Worship and Ministry

• Attention to detail in corporate worship honors the God who attends to detail.
• Ministry functions best when each member knows his or her place and purpose, fitting together like curtains coupled at their edges (1 Corinthians 12:18).
• Boundaries established by Scripture protect unity rather than hinder it; clearly defined edges allow for secure connections.

Key Takeaways

• קִיצוֹן identifies the end curtain of a set and appears exclusively in tabernacle texts.
• The word highlights unity, holiness, and obedience within the covenant community.
• It reinforces confidence that even Scripture’s smallest particulars are purposeful and reliable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16).

הַקִּ֣יצוֹנָ֔ה הַקִּיצֹנָ֖ה הקיצונה הקיצנה hakKitzoNah haq·qî·ṣō·nāh haq·qî·ṣō·w·nāh haqqîṣōnāh haqqîṣōwnāhInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts