Exodus 40:26

Moses placed the gold altar in the Tent of Meeting, in front of the veil,

Study Bible

He placed
This phrase indicates an intentional and deliberate action by Moses, following God's precise instructions. The Hebrew root for "placed" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to give, set, or appoint. This action signifies obedience and the fulfillment of divine command, emphasizing the importance of following God's directives in worship and life.

the gold altar
The gold altar, also known as the altar of incense, was a crucial element in the Tabernacle, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God. Gold, a precious metal, signifies purity, divinity, and the value of worship. The altar's construction from gold underscores the sacredness of the offerings made upon it. Historically, incense was used in various ancient cultures for religious rituals, but in the Israelite context, it represented a sweet aroma pleasing to God, as seen in Psalm 141:2.

in the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, or Tabernacle, was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. The Hebrew term "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (ohel mo'ed) translates to "tent of appointment" or "meeting," highlighting its role as the designated place for divine-human encounters. This setting underscores the centrality of God's presence in the life of the Israelite community, serving as a constant reminder of His guidance and covenant.

in front of the veil
The veil separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. This positioning of the altar "in front of the veil" signifies the closeness yet separation between God and humanity. The veil represents the barrier of sin that was ultimately torn through Christ's sacrifice, as described in Matthew 27:51. In the Old Testament context, it served as a reminder of the holiness of God and the need for mediation in approaching Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who was instructed by God to set up the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the gold altar.

2. The Tent of Meeting
Also known as the Tabernacle, it was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. The Gold Altar
Also referred to as the Altar of Incense, it was placed in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God.

4. The Veil
A curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies) in the Tabernacle, signifying the separation between God and man due to sin.

5. The Israelites
The people of God, who were given the law and instructions for worship through Moses.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Worship
The placement of the gold altar in front of the veil emphasizes the importance of worship and prayer in approaching God. As believers, we are called to prioritize our relationship with God through regular prayer and worship.

The Role of Intercession
The altar of incense symbolizes intercession. Just as the incense rose before God, our prayers and intercessions for others are a vital part of our spiritual life and service to God.

The Barrier of Sin
The veil represents the separation caused by sin. In Christ, the veil is torn, granting us direct access to God. This should encourage us to live in the freedom and grace provided by Jesus' sacrifice.

The Holiness of God
The careful placement and use of the altar remind us of God's holiness and the reverence we must have in His presence. Our worship should reflect a deep respect and awe for who God is.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the placement of the gold altar in front of the veil reflect the relationship between prayer and God's presence?

2. In what ways does the symbolism of the veil in the Tabernacle enhance our understanding of Christ's work on the cross?

3. How can we incorporate the principle of intercession, as symbolized by the altar of incense, into our daily prayer life?

4. What does the tearing of the veil at Christ's crucifixion signify for our personal access to God, and how should this impact our worship?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper sense of reverence and holiness in our approach to worship, in light of the Tabernacle's design and purpose?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 16
Describes the Day of Atonement, where the high priest would enter the Most Holy Place, highlighting the significance of the veil and the separation it represented.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its regulations, drawing parallels between the Old Covenant practices and the New Covenant in Christ.

Revelation 8
Depicts the prayers of the saints as incense before God, connecting the symbolism of the altar of incense to the prayers of believers.