Exodus 40:20

Moses took the Testimony and placed it in the ark, attaching the poles to the ark; and he set the mercy seat atop the ark.

Study Bible

Moses took the Testimony
The term "Testimony" refers to the tablets of the Ten Commandments, which are central to the covenant between God and Israel. In Hebrew, the word for "Testimony" is "עֵדוּת" (edut), signifying a witness or evidence. This highlights the enduring nature of God's law as a witness to His covenant with His people. The act of Moses taking the Testimony underscores his role as a mediator between God and Israel, entrusted with the sacred duty of preserving God's commandments.

and placed it in the ark
The "ark" here is the Ark of the Covenant, a sacred chest made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, as described earlier in Exodus. The Hebrew word for "ark" is "אֲרוֹן" (aron), which can mean a chest or box. Placing the Testimony in the ark signifies the centrality of God's law in the life of Israel, both physically and spiritually. The ark serves as a tangible representation of God's presence and His covenant promises.

and attached the poles to the ark
The poles, made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, were used to carry the ark. This detail emphasizes the holiness and untouchable nature of the ark, as it was not to be directly handled by human hands. The Hebrew word for "poles" is "בַּדִּים" (baddim), which also implies separation or distinction. This reflects the reverence and care required in handling sacred objects, reminding us of the holiness of God and the respect due to His presence.

He also put the mercy seat atop the ark
The "mercy seat" is the cover of the ark, made of pure gold, with cherubim on each end. In Hebrew, it is called "כַּפֹּרֶת" (kapporet), derived from the root "כָּפַר" (kaphar), meaning to cover or atone. The mercy seat is where the high priest would sprinkle the blood of the sacrifice on the Day of Atonement, symbolizing God's forgiveness and reconciliation with His people. This act foreshadows the ultimate atonement through Jesus Christ, who is our mercy seat, covering our sins and reconciling us to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who received the Law from God and was responsible for setting up the Tabernacle according to God's instructions.

2. The Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the Testimony (the tablets of the Law) and represented God's presence among His people.

3. The Testimony
The tablets of the Law given to Moses on Mount Sinai, symbolizing God's covenant with Israel.

4. The Poles
Used to carry the Ark, signifying the mobility of God's presence with His people as they journeyed.

5. The Mercy Seat
The cover of the Ark, representing God's throne and the place of atonement where God would meet with Moses.

Teaching Points

The Centrality of God's Word
The placement of the Testimony in the Ark underscores the importance of God's Word as the foundation of faith and life.

God's Presence and Guidance
The Ark, with its poles, symbolizes God's continual presence and guidance, reminding believers of His faithfulness in their journey.

Atonement and Mercy
The mercy seat signifies God's provision for atonement, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins.

Reverence and Obedience
The careful handling of the Ark reflects the reverence due to God and His commands, encouraging believers to approach God with respect and obedience.

Covenant Relationship
The Ark and the Testimony highlight the covenant relationship between God and His people, calling believers to live in faithfulness to God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the placement of the Testimony in the Ark reflect the importance of God's Word in your daily life?

2. In what ways can you ensure that you are carrying God's presence with you, as symbolized by the poles attached to the Ark?

3. How does the concept of the mercy seat enhance your understanding of Christ's atoning work on the cross?

4. What steps can you take to cultivate a deeper reverence and obedience to God's commands in your life?

5. How does understanding the covenant relationship between God and Israel through the Ark encourage you in your personal relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9
Discusses the significance of the Ark and its contents, drawing parallels to Christ's ultimate sacrifice and the new covenant.

Deuteronomy 10
Describes the second set of tablets and the Ark, emphasizing the importance of the Law and God's covenant.

1 Kings 8
Solomon's dedication of the Temple, where the Ark is placed in the Holy of Holies, highlighting the continuity of God's presence from the Tabernacle to the Temple.

Romans 3
Explores the concept of atonement and righteousness through faith, connecting to the mercy seat as a place of atonement.