◄ Exodus 40 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Setting Up the Tabernacle (Acts 7:44–47; Hebrews 9:1–10) 1Then the LORD said to Moses, 2“On the first day of the first month you are to set up the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting. 3Put the ark of the Testimonya in it and screen off the ark with the veil. 4Then bring in the table and set out its arrangement; bring in the lampstand as well, and set up its lamps. 5Place the gold altar of incense in front of the ark of the Testimony, and hang the curtain at the entrance to the tabernacle. 6Place the altar of burnt offering in front of the entrance to the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting. 7And place the basin between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and put water in it. 8Set up the surrounding courtyard and hang the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard. 9Take the anointing oil and anoint the tabernacle and everything in it; consecrate it along with all its furnishings, and it shall be holy. 10Anoint the altar of burnt offering and all its utensils; consecrate the altar, and it shall be most holy. 11Anoint the basin and its stand and consecrate them. 12Then bring Aaron and his sons to the entrance to the Tent of Meeting and wash them with water. 13And you are to clothe Aaron with the holy garments, anoint him, and consecrate him, so that he may serve Me as a priest. 14Bring his sons forward and clothe them with tunics. 15Anoint them just as you anointed their father, so that they may also serve Me as priests. Their anointing will qualify them for a permanent priesthood throughout their generations.” 16Moses did everything just as the LORD had commanded him. 17So the tabernacle was set up on the first day of the first month of the second year. 18When Moses set up the tabernacle, he laid its bases, positioned its frames, inserted its crossbars, and set up its posts. 19Then he spread the tent over the tabernacle and put the covering over the tent, just as the LORD had commanded him. 20Moses took the Testimony and placed it in the ark, attaching the poles to the ark; and he set the mercy seat atop the ark. 21Then he brought the ark into the tabernacle, put up the veil for the screen, and shielded off the ark of the Testimony, just as the LORD had commanded him. 22Moses placed the table in the Tent of Meeting on the north side of the tabernacle, outside the veil. 23He arranged the bread on it before the LORD, just as the LORD had commanded him. 24He also placed the lampstand in the Tent of Meeting opposite the table on the south side of the tabernacle 25and set up the lamps before the LORD, just as the LORD had commanded him. 26Moses placed the gold altar in the Tent of Meeting, in front of the veil, 27and he burned fragrant incense on it, just as the LORD had commanded him. 28Then he put up the curtain at the entrance to the tabernacle. 29He placed the altar of burnt offering near the entrance to the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting, and offered on it the burnt offering and the grain offering, just as the LORD had commanded him. 30He placed the basin between the Tent of Meeting and the altar and put water in it for washing; 31and from it Moses, Aaron, and his sons washed their hands and feet. 32They washed whenever they entered the Tent of Meeting or approached the altar, just as the LORD had commanded Moses. 33And Moses set up the courtyard around the tabernacle and the altar, and he hung the curtain for the entrance to the courtyard. So Moses finished the work. The Cloud and the Glory (Numbers 9:15–23) 34Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. 35Moses was unable to enter the Tent of Meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. 36Whenever the cloud was lifted from above the tabernacle, the Israelites would set out through all the stages of their journey. 37If the cloud was not lifted, they would not set out until the day it was taken up. 38For the cloud of the LORD was over the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel through all their journeys. Footnotes: 3 a That is, the ark of the covenant; also in verses 5 and 21 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Exodus 40 Summary The Cloud and the Glory Verses 1–8 – The LORD Sets the Day and the Layout The LORD commands Moses to raise the entire tabernacle on “the first day of the first month.” Every piece—from ark to altar—is placed exactly where God directs, turning an empty campsite into a holy dwelling. Verses 9–15 – Anointing the House and the Priests Moses is told to anoint the tabernacle and all its furnishings with sacred oil, making them “most holy.” Aaron and his sons are washed, clothed, and anointed so they may serve as priests forever throughout their generations. Verses 16–33 – Moses Carries Out Every Detail “Thus Moses did; according to all that the LORD had commanded him, so he did” (v. 16). He erects the structure, hangs the curtains, sets the furniture, lights the lamps, burns incense, offers sacrifice, and finally installs the courtyard screen—finishing the work. Verses 34–38 – Glory Fills the Tabernacle and Guides Israel A dense cloud descends, “and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle” (v. 34). Whenever the cloud lifts, Israel breaks camp; when it rests, they stay put. “For the cloud of the LORD was over the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night… through all their journeys” (v. 38). The chapter presents a narrative of the meticulous establishment of the sacred tabernacle, as per the instructions of the Lord to Moses. It also describes the consecration of Aaron and his sons to serve as priests and emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands. Historical Setting Exodus 40 occurs roughly one year after Israel’s departure from Egypt (Exodus 12:2; 40:17). The nation is still encamped at Mount Sinai. God has given the blueprint (chapters 25–31) and the craftspeople have completed the work (chapters 35–39). Now comes the grand “assembly day,” comparable to a temple dedication. Timeline and Calendar Insight “First day of the first month” later becomes Israel’s civil New Year (Exodus 12:2). The tabernacle’s birthdate therefore marks Israel’s new identity as a nation with God dwelling among them—long before kings or stone temples. The Layout of the Furnishings 1. Ark of the Covenant—most holy place, veiled. 2. Table of the Bread of the Presence—north side. 3. Lampstand—south side opposite the table. 4. Golden Altar of Incense—before the veil. 5. Bronze Altar—outer court, east side, first approach. 6. Bronze Basin—between altar and tent. 7. Court hangings and gate screen—demarcate sacred space. Each item forms a straight line from entry to ark, teaching progression from sin offering to fellowship. Anointing Oil and Consecration The special oil (Exodus 30:22-33) symbolizes God’s ownership. Psalm 133:2 compares priestly unity to Aaron’s oil, and 1 John 2:20 points to believers being “anointed” by the Holy One. Washing, robing, and anointing Aaron’s family inaugurates a perpetual priesthood—fulfilled ultimately in Jesus, “a priest forever” (Hebrews 7:17). Moses’ Perfect Obedience Seven times the chapter repeats that Moses did “just as the LORD commanded.” Such repetition stresses complete submission, contrasting with earlier failures (Exodus 32). Obedience precedes glory. The Cloud of Glory The cloud links back to Exodus 13:21-22 and forward to 1 Kings 8:10-11 where a similar cloud fills Solomon’s temple. Ezekiel 10 describes that glory departing; John 1:14 proclaims it returning in Christ: “The Word became flesh and tabernacled among us.” From Sinai to Canaan: Guidance System • Cloud up = break camp (Numbers 9:15-23). • Cloud down = stay put. This divine “GPS” ensures Israel moves only under God’s timing, echoing Psalm 32:8, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.” Archaeological Notes on Tent Shrines Ancient texts (e.g., Egyptian military tents for deities) confirm that portable sanctuaries were known in the Late Bronze Age. Excavations at Timna show Midianite tent shrines with fabric partitions, copper objects, and animal-skin coverings, paralleling the tabernacle’s construction materials. Christ Foreshadowed • Ark = God’s throne; Jesus is the true mercy seat (Romans 3:25). • Lampstand = Light; Jesus says, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12). • Bread of Presence = Sustenance; Jesus, “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35). • Veil Torn: In Exodus, only priests pass the veil; at Jesus’ death “the veil of the temple was torn in two” (Matthew 27:51), granting open access. Key Themes 1. God desires to dwell among His people. 2. Holiness requires consecration—washing, robing, anointing. 3. Obedience invites God’s visible presence. 4. Guidance comes from abiding near God’s glory. Practical Application Believers today are called “a living temple” (1 Peter 2:5). Set apart space in your heart, follow God’s daily lead, and trust that the same glory that filled a desert tent now indwells His people, moving them forward through every wilderness journey. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Corinthians 3:16 Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? This New Testament verse connects the concept of the Tabernacle to believers as the dwelling place of God. Hebrews 9:11 But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that have come, He went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made by hands, that is, not of this creation. Highlights Jesus as the fulfillment of the Tabernacle, offering a perfect sacrifice. 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. Jesus is the ultimate manifestation of God's presence among His people. Teaching Points The Command to Set Up the Tabernacle On the first day of the first month you are to set up the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting. (Exodus 40:2) The specific timing underscores the importance of new beginnings and God's order. Obedience to God's Instructions Moses meticulously follows God's detailed instructions for setting up the Tabernacle (Exodus 40:16-33). This obedience reflects a heart aligned with God's will and a commitment to His holiness. The Anointing and Consecration Anoint the tabernacle and all that is in it; consecrate it and all its furnishings, and it will be holy. (Exodus 40:9) The anointing signifies setting apart for God's purposes, emphasizing the sacredness of worship. The Glory of the LORD Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. (Exodus 40:34) God's presence is visibly manifested, affirming His covenant and guidance. The Role of the Cloud and Fire For the cloud of the LORD was over the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel during all their travels. (Exodus 40:38) The cloud and fire symbolize God's continual presence and guidance. Practical Applications Prioritize God's Presence Just as the Israelites centered their camp around the Tabernacle, we should center our lives around God's presence. Commit to Obedience Follow God's instructions in our lives with the same diligence Moses demonstrated. Consecrate Our Lives Dedicate ourselves to God's service, recognizing that we are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). Seek God's Guidance Trust in God's leading, as symbolized by the cloud and fire, in our daily decisions and life journey. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The central figure in Exodus 40, as He gives Moses the instructions for setting up the Tabernacle. The Hebrew name used is יהוה (YHWH), which is often rendered as "LORD" in English translations, including the Berean Standard Bible. 2. Moses The leader of the Israelites and the primary human figure in this chapter. He is responsible for carrying out the LORD's instructions to set up the Tabernacle. Moses is a prophet and mediator between God and the people of Israel. 3. Aaron Although not directly mentioned in Exodus 40, Aaron's role as the high priest is implied, as the chapter discusses the anointing of the priests and the setting up of the Tabernacle where Aaron would serve. Aaron is Moses' brother and the first high priest of Israel. 4. Aaron's sons Also implied in the chapter, as they are to be anointed and consecrated to serve as priests. Aaron's sons include Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar, who are mentioned in earlier chapters of Exodus. Places 1. The Tabernacle The central place of worship for the Israelites, where God's presence dwelt among His people. The Hebrew term for Tabernacle is "מִשְׁכָּן" (mishkan), meaning "dwelling place." 2. The Tent of Meeting This refers to the entire structure of the Tabernacle, where Moses would meet with God. The Hebrew term is "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (ohel mo'ed), meaning "tent of meeting." 3. The Ark of the Testimony Located within the Most Holy Place, the Ark contained the tablets of the covenant. The Hebrew word for Ark is "אֲרוֹן" (aron), meaning "chest" or "box." 4. The Veil This curtain separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place within the Tabernacle. The Hebrew term is "פָּרֹכֶת" (paroket), meaning "curtain" or "veil." 5. The Table Situated in the Holy Place, this table held the Bread of the Presence. The Hebrew word is "שֻׁלְחָן" (shulchan), meaning "table." 6. The Lampstand Also located in the Holy Place, the lampstand provided light. The Hebrew term is "מְנוֹרָה" (menorah), meaning "lampstand." 7. The Altar of Incense Positioned before the veil in the Holy Place, this altar was used for burning incense. The Hebrew word is "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), meaning "altar." 8. The Altar of Burnt Offering Located in the courtyard of the Tabernacle, this altar was used for sacrifices. The Hebrew term is "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), the same as for the altar of incense, but contextually different. 9. The Basin Situated between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, the basin was used for ceremonial washing. The Hebrew word is "כִּיּוֹר" (kiyor), meaning "basin" or "laver." 10. The Courtyard The area surrounding the Tabernacle, enclosed by curtains. The Hebrew term is "חָצֵר" (chatser), meaning "courtyard" or "enclosure." Events 1. Setting Up the Tabernacle The LORD commands Moses to set up the Tabernacle on the first day of the first month. This involves assembling the structure and placing the Ark of the Testimony inside it. The Hebrew word for "tabernacle" is מִשְׁכָּן (mishkan), meaning "dwelling place." 2. Placing the Ark and the Veil Moses is instructed to place the Ark of the Testimony in the Tabernacle and to screen it with the veil. The Ark is central to the worship and presence of God among the Israelites. 3. Arranging the Furnishings Moses is to bring in the table and arrange its setting, bring in the lampstand and set up its lamps, and place the gold altar of incense before the Ark of the Testimony. 4. Setting Up the Altar and Basin The bronze altar is to be set before the entrance of the Tabernacle, and the basin is to be placed between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, filled with water for washing. 5. Anointing the Tabernacle and Its Contents Moses is to anoint the Tabernacle and everything in it to consecrate them. The Hebrew root for "anoint" is מָשַׁח (mashach), which signifies setting apart for a holy purpose. 6. Consecrating Aaron and His Sons Moses is to bring Aaron and his sons to the entrance of the Tent of Meeting, wash them with water, and dress Aaron in the holy garments. He is to anoint and consecrate them to serve as priests. 7. Completion of the Work Moses completes the work as commanded by the LORD. The text emphasizes Moses' obedience to God's instructions. 8. The Glory of the LORD Fills the Tabernacle Once the Tabernacle is set up, the cloud covers the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD fills the Tabernacle. The Hebrew word for "glory" is כָּבוֹד (kavod), indicating the weighty presence of God. 9. Guidance by the Cloud The cloud serves as a guide for the Israelites, indicating when to set out on their journeys. When the cloud lifts from the Tabernacle, the Israelites set out; when it remains, they stay encamped. Lessons from Exodus 40 1. The Importance of Obedience In Exodus 40, we see Moses meticulously following God's instructions to set up the Tabernacle. This chapter reminds us of the importance of obedience to God's commands. As it is written, "Moses did everything just as the LORD had commanded him" (Exodus 40:16). Obedience is not just about following rules; it's about aligning our lives with God's perfect plan, which leads to blessings and fulfillment. 2. God's Presence Among Us The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence with His people. When Moses completed the work, "the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle" (Exodus 40:34). This teaches us that God desires to dwell among us, and through Jesus Christ, we have the assurance of His presence in our lives today. 3. The Role of Preparation Exodus 40 highlights the detailed preparation required to set up the Tabernacle. This serves as a reminder that preparation is key in our spiritual lives. Just as Moses prepared the Tabernacle for God's presence, we must prepare our hearts and minds to receive His guidance and blessings. 4. The Significance of Dedication Moses anointed the Tabernacle and everything in it, dedicating it to the Lord. This act of dedication signifies setting apart our lives for God's purposes. As believers, we are called to be "a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God" (Romans 12:1), dedicating our time, talents, and treasures to His service. 5. The Power of God's Glory The glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle, demonstrating His power and majesty. This reminds us that God's glory is beyond our comprehension, yet He chooses to reveal Himself to us. We are called to reflect His glory in our lives, shining His light in a world that desperately needs hope. 6. The Necessity of Holiness The Tabernacle was a holy place, set apart for God's presence. This underscores the necessity of holiness in our lives. As it is written, "Be holy, because I am holy" (1 Peter 1:16). Holiness is not about perfection but about being set apart for God's purposes and living in a way that honors Him. 7. The Value of Community Worship The Tabernacle was not just for Moses; it was for the entire community of Israel to come together and worship God. This teaches us the value of gathering with fellow believers to worship and encourage one another. "Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another" (Hebrews 10:25). 8. The Assurance of God's Guidance The cloud that covered the Tabernacle was a sign of God's guidance for the Israelites. It moved when they were to move and stayed when they were to stay. This assures us that God is our guide, leading us through life's journey. "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5). 9. The Joy of Completion When Moses finished the work, the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle, marking the completion of a significant task. This brings joy and satisfaction, reminding us that God is faithful to complete the good work He has begun in us. "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion" (Philippians 1:6). 10. The Promise of God's Faithfulness Exodus 40 concludes with the assurance of God's faithfulness to His people. The cloud and fire were constant reminders of His presence and protection. This chapter encourages us to trust in God's unwavering faithfulness, knowing that He will never leave us nor forsake us. "The LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you" (Deuteronomy 31:6). Topics 1. Setting Up the Tabernacle In Exodus 40:1-2, God commands Moses to set up the Tabernacle on the first day of the first month. The Hebrew word for "Tabernacle" is "מִשְׁכָּן" (mishkan), meaning "dwelling place," signifying God's presence among His people. 2. Placement of the Ark of the Testimony Verses 3-5 describe the placement of the Ark of the Testimony within the Tabernacle. The Ark, known in Hebrew as "אֲרוֹן הָעֵדוּת" (aron ha'edut), is central to the worship and covenant relationship between God and Israel. 3. Arrangement of the Holy Furnishings In verses 6-8, God instructs Moses on arranging the furnishings, including the table, lampstand, and altar of incense. Each item has specific symbolic significance, reflecting aspects of worship and divine presence. 4. Consecration of the Tabernacle and Its Contents Verses 9-11 detail the anointing and consecration of the Tabernacle and its contents with holy oil. The Hebrew root "קָדַשׁ" (qadash) means "to set apart" or "to make holy," emphasizing the sacredness of the space and objects. 5. Consecration of Aaron and His Sons In verses 12-15, Aaron and his sons are washed, clothed, and anointed for their priestly duties. This consecration signifies their role as mediators between God and the people. 6. Completion of the Tabernacle Setup Verses 16-33 describe the completion of the Tabernacle setup as Moses follows God's instructions precisely. The repeated phrase "just as the LORD had commanded" underscores obedience to divine instructions. 7. The Glory of the LORD Fills the Tabernacle In verses 34-38, the cloud covers the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD fills the Tabernacle. The Hebrew word "כָּבוֹד" (kavod) for "glory" indicates the weighty presence of God, signifying His approval and dwelling among His people. Themes 1. Obedience to Divine Instructions The chapter emphasizes the importance of following God's commands precisely. Moses is instructed to set up the Tabernacle according to the specific guidelines given by God. This theme highlights the Hebrew root "צָוָה" (tsavah), meaning "to command," underscoring the necessity of obedience to divine instructions. ^“On the first day of the first month you are to set up the tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting.”^ (Exodus 40:2) 2. Sanctification and Holiness The anointing of the Tabernacle and its furnishings signifies the sanctification and setting apart of these items for holy use. The Hebrew word "קָדַשׁ" (qadash) means "to consecrate" or "to make holy," reflecting the theme of holiness. ^“Take the anointing oil and anoint the tabernacle and everything in it; consecrate it and all its furnishings, and it will be holy.”^ (Exodus 40:9) 3. God’s Presence Among His People The cloud covering the Tent of Meeting and the glory of the LORD filling the Tabernacle symbolize God's presence dwelling among His people. This theme is central to the covenant relationship between God and Israel. ^“Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.”^ (Exodus 40:34) 4. Guidance by God’s Presence The movement of the cloud indicates when the Israelites should set out or stay, representing divine guidance. The Hebrew word "נָסַע" (nasa) means "to journey" or "to set out," emphasizing reliance on God's direction. ^“Whenever the cloud was lifted from above the tabernacle, the Israelites would set out through all the stages of their journey;”^ (Exodus 40:36) 5. Completion and Fulfillment of God’s Plan The completion of the Tabernacle signifies the fulfillment of God’s plan as instructed to Moses. This theme reflects the faithfulness of God in bringing His purposes to completion. ^“So Moses did everything just as the LORD had commanded him.”^ (Exodus 40:16) Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Presence Thank God for His abiding presence in our lives and His faithfulness in guiding us. Prayer for Obedience Ask for a heart that seeks to obey God's commands and align with His will. Consecration Pray for the strength to consecrate our lives and actions to God's service. Guidance and Wisdom Seek God's wisdom and guidance in all areas of life, trusting in His perfect plan. As we reflect on Exodus 40, may we be inspired to live lives that honor God's presence, walking in obedience and consecration, and continually seeking His guidance. Answering Tough Questions 1. Exodus 40:2 – How could Moses effectively assemble such a sophisticated structure in the desert with limited resources? 2. Exodus 40:6–7 – Were there archaeological traces of the altar and utensils left behind that confirm this momentous event? 3. Exodus 40:16 – Why do other sections of the Bible emphasize different instructions for the same Tabernacle setup, creating apparent inconsistencies? 4. Exodus 40:20–21 – How feasible is it that the ark and its contents remained intact through harsh wilderness conditions without any recorded damage? 5. Exodus 40:34–35 – Does the cloud covering and visible divine presence have any credible explanation, or does this detail conflict with natural laws? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the detailed process of setting up the tabernacle teach us about the importance of religious rituals and practices? 2. How does Moses' strict adherence to the Lord's commands serve as a model of obedience for us today? 3. How do you interpret the symbolic significance of the cloud covering the Tent of Meeting? 4. What does the anointment and consecration of Aaron and his sons reveal about the role of the priesthood in the Old Testament? 5. How can the concept of anointing and consecration be applied in our present-day life? 6. How can we seek and recognize God's presence and guidance in our lives today, as depicted by the cloud's movement in the chapter? 7. What can we learn about God's holiness from the sanctification of the tabernacle and its furnishings? 8. How does the notion of a "permanent priesthood throughout their generations" relate to the concept of spiritual legacy? 9. How can we ensure that our actions align with God's commands, as Moses did? 10. How does the tabernacle serve as a symbol of God's dwelling among His people? 11. How do you think Moses felt during this process of setting up the tabernacle, and why? 12. In what ways can the obedience of Moses inspire your personal faith journey? 13. How can the spiritual concept of the tabernacle apply to the personal spaces in our lives? 14. How does the journey of the Israelites mirror our own spiritual journeys? 15. What can we learn from the idea that the Lord filled the tabernacle with His glory? 16. In our modern society, how can we create spaces that are "holy" or set apart for God? 17. How does the establishment of the tabernacle model the importance of community in worship? 18. How does the concept of the divine presence traveling with the Israelites influence our understanding of God's relationship with us today? 19. How do you think the Israelites felt when they saw the glory of the Lord filling the tabernacle? 20. How does the tabernacle setting and anointing process relate to the importance of order and sanctity in our present-day worship spaces? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions