The Tabernacle

The Tabernacle of Moses was a portable sanctuary built by the Israelites in the wilderness under God's specific instructions (Exodus 25-40). It was the center of their worship and a profound visual representation of God's holiness and the plan of redemption.

Its parts can be understood by dividing them into three main sections: The Outer Court, The Holy Place, and The Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies). The entire complex was arranged in a rectangular pattern.

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I. The Outer Court (The Courtyard)

This was a large fenced-in area (150 feet long by 75 feet wide) where the general population could enter. It was about holiness and separation from the outside world.

1. The Fence (Gate Enclosure):

   · Description: A wall of fine linen curtains held up by 60 bronze pillars.

   · Significance: It separated the holy space from the common camp. The only way in was through the gate.

2. The Gate (Entrance):

   · Description: Located on the east side, it was a curtain of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn woven into fine linen.

   · Significance: It was the single entrance, symbolizing that there is only one way to approach God (John 10:9, "I am the gate...").

3. The Bronze Altar (Altar of Burnt Offering):

   · Description: A large altar made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, placed just inside the gate. It was used for animal sacrifices.

   · Significance: This was where atonement for sin was made through the shedding of blood. It points to the cross of Christ as the ultimate sacrifice.

4. The Bronze Laver:

   · Description: A large basin made of bronze (from the mirrors of the women), filled with water. It stood between the Bronze Altar and the Tabernacle tent.

   · Significance: The priests would wash their hands and feet here before entering the Holy Place or performing sacrifices. It symbolizes the need for spiritual cleansing and purification before serving God (Ephesians 5:26).

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II. The Holy Place (The First Room of the Tent)

This was the first room inside the Tabernacle structure itself. Only priests were allowed to enter here to perform their daily duties.

1. The Tabernacle Tent Structure:

   · Description: A rectangular frame made of acacia wood boards overlaid with gold, covered by four layers of curtains (linen, goat hair, ram skins, and sea cow skins).

   · Significance: The inner curtain was beautifully embroidered, representing God's glory, while the outer, durable layers protected it from the elements.

2. The Veil (First Curtain):

   · Description: A thick, ornate curtain separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. It was made of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and finely twisted linen, with cherubim woven into it.

   · Significance: It symbolized the separation between a holy God and sinful humanity. This veil was torn in two at the moment of Jesus' death (Matthew 27:51), signifying open access to God.

3. The Golden Lampstand (Menorah):

   · Description: A seven-branched, solid gold lampstand placed on the left (south) side. It was the only source of light in the Holy Place and was kept burning continually.

   · Significance: It represents God as the light of the world and the calling of His people to be a light (John 8:12; Matthew 5:14-16).

4. The Table of Showbread:

   · Description: A small table made of acacia wood overlaid with gold, placed on the right (north) side. It held 12 loaves of bread, representing the 12 tribes of Israel, which were replaced every Sabbath.

   · Significance: It symbolizes God's provision and sustenance for His people. It also points to Jesus as the "Bread of Life" (John 6:35).

5. The Altar of Incense:

   · Description: A small altar made of acacia wood overlaid with gold, placed directly in front of the Veil. The priest burned fragrant incense on it every morning and evening.

   · Significance: The smoke of the incense represents the prayers of God's people rising to Him (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8). It was a symbol of intercession.

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III. The Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies)

This was the innermost, most sacred room of the Tabernacle. Only the High Priest could enter, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur).

1. The Ark of the Covenant:

   · Description: A chest made of acacia wood overlaid with pure gold, inside and out. It was the only piece of furniture in the Most Holy Place.

   · Significance: It represented the very throne of God and His presence dwelling among His people.

2. The Mercy Seat:

   · Description: The solid gold lid of the Ark of the Covenant. On top of it were two hammered gold cherubim facing each other, with their wings overshadowing the lid.

   · Significance: This was the place of atonement. Once a year, the High Priest would sprinkle the blood of the sacrifice on the Mercy Seat to atone for the sins of the nation. It symbolizes God's throne of grace and judgment, where mercy triumphs over justice through a blood sacrifice (Romans 3:25).

3. The Contents of the Ark:

   · The Two Stone Tablets: The original tablets of the Ten Commandments (the Law).

   · Aaron's Staff: A rod that budded, symbolizing God's chosen priesthood.

   · A Golden Jar of Manna: The bread God provided in the wilderness.

   · Significance: These items served as a testimony of God's covenant, provision, and authority.

Summary of Spiritual Significance

The Tabernacle is a powerful type or foreshadowing of Jesus Christ and the believer's approach to God:

· The Gate: Jesus is the only way (John 14:6).

· The Bronze Altar: Jesus is our sacrifice (1 Peter 1:19).

· The Laver: Jesus cleanses us from sin (1 Corinthians 6:11).

· The Lampstand: Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12).

· The Table of Showbread: Jesus is the bread of life (John 6:35).

· The Altar of Incense: Jesus intercedes for us (Romans 8:34).

· The Veil: Jesus' flesh was torn to give us access to God (Hebrews 10:20).

· The Ark & Mercy Seat: Jesus is our propitiation and the embodiment of God's presence (Romans 3:25; Colossians 2:9).