The Tabernacle and the Sacrificial System (Exodus 25-40)

God provides Moses with detailed instructions for building the Tabernacle, the sacred dwelling place for His presence among the Israelites. These chapters emphasize the importance of worship, obedience, and the tangible presence of God in the life of His people.

Exodus 25-27: Instructions for the Tabernacle and Its Furnishings

The Ark of the Covenant

God begins by instructing Moses to have the Israelites build the Ark of the Covenant, a wooden chest overlaid with pure gold. The Ark would house the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, symbolizing God’s covenant with Israel. On top of the Ark was the “mercy seat,” where God’s presence would dwell between two golden cherubim.

The Table for the Bread of the Presence

Next, God commands the construction of a table made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. On this table, the Bread of the Presence was to be placed continually before the Lord, representing God’s provision for His people.

The Golden Lampstand

The golden lampstand, or menorah, was to be made of pure gold with seven branches. It was to be kept burning continually, symbolizing the light of God’s presence among His people.

The Tabernacle Structure

God then gives Moses detailed instructions for constructing the Tabernacle itself, including the materials, dimensions, and layout. The Tabernacle was to have a courtyard, a Holy Place, and the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies), where the Ark of the Covenant would reside.

The Altar of Burnt Offering and the Courtyard

The altar for burnt offerings was to be made of bronze and placed in the courtyard. The courtyard itself was to be enclosed by linen curtains with specific measurements, and a bronze basin was to be placed between the altar and the entrance to the Tabernacle for the priests to wash.

Exodus 28-31: Priestly Garments and Anointing

Priestly Garments

God instructs Moses to make sacred garments for Aaron and his sons, who were to serve as priests. These garments included the ephod, breastpiece, robe, tunic, turban, and sash. Each item had symbolic significance, with the breastpiece bearing twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel.

The Anointing and Consecration of the Priests

God provides detailed instructions for the anointing and consecration of the priests. This involved sacrifices, anointing with oil, and the wearing of sacred garments. The purpose was to set them apart for their holy service in the Tabernacle.

The Altar of Incense and the Bronze Basin

God also commands the construction of the altar of incense, placed before the veil in the Holy Place. The incense was to be burned every morning and evening as a symbol of continual prayer. The bronze basin was used for the priests’ ritual washing before they approached the altar or entered the Holy Place.

The Sabbath Rest

God emphasizes the importance of keeping the Sabbath as a sign of the covenant between Him and Israel. The Sabbath was to be a day of rest, holy to the Lord, as a reminder of God’s creation and His deliverance of Israel from Egypt.

Exodus 35-40: Construction of the Tabernacle

The People’s Generosity

Moses called for contributions of materials for the construction of the Tabernacle. The people responded with overwhelming generosity, bringing gold, silver, bronze, fabrics, and precious stones until there was more than enough to complete the work.

The Skilled Workers

God appointed Bezalel and Oholiab, filled with the Spirit of God, to oversee the construction. They led a team of skilled craftsmen who carefully followed the instructions given to Moses, crafting the Tabernacle and all its furnishings with precision and artistry.

Erecting the Tabernacle

Once everything was completed, Moses inspected the work and blessed the people. The Tabernacle was then set up according to God’s command. When it was finished, the cloud of God’s glory covered the Tabernacle, and His presence filled it, signifying that He was dwelling among His people.

God’s Presence and Guidance

From that point forward, whenever the cloud lifted from the Tabernacle, the Israelites would set out on their journey. When the cloud remained, they stayed where they were. The presence of God guided them throughout their wilderness journey.

Conclusion

Exodus 25-40 reveals God’s meticulous care for His people, providing them with a tangible reminder of His presence through the Tabernacle. The detailed instructions, the skilled craftsmanship, and the generous offerings of the people all reflect the importance of worship and obedience. Despite their failures, God’s covenant with Israel was renewed, and His presence remained with them as they journeyed toward the Promised Land.