Exodus 40:30

He placed the basin between the Tent of Meeting and the altar and put water in it for washing;

Study Bible

He placed the basin
The act of placing the basin is significant in the context of the tabernacle's construction and dedication. The Hebrew word for "basin" is "kiyyor," which refers to a large vessel used for washing. This basin was made of bronze and was essential for the ritual purification of the priests. Its placement signifies the importance of cleanliness and sanctification before approaching God. In a broader spiritual sense, it reminds believers of the need for purity and preparation in their own lives before entering into worship or service.

between the Tent of Meeting
The "Tent of Meeting" is another term for the tabernacle, the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. The Hebrew term "Ohel Moed" emphasizes the tent as a place of divine encounter and communication. Historically, this was where Moses would meet with God, and it served as the central place of worship and guidance for the Israelites. The positioning of the basin between the Tent of Meeting and the altar underscores the necessity of purification before entering God's presence or offering sacrifices.

and the altar
The altar, referred to in Hebrew as "mizbeach," was the place where sacrifices were made to God. It symbolizes atonement and reconciliation with God through the shedding of blood. The altar's presence in the tabernacle complex highlights the centrality of sacrifice in the worship of Yahweh. Theologically, it points forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the sacrificial system through His death on the cross.

and put water in it for washing
The act of putting water in the basin for washing is a practical and symbolic gesture. Water, in the biblical context, often represents cleansing and renewal. The priests were required to wash their hands and feet before performing their duties, symbolizing the need for spiritual cleanliness. This practice foreshadows the New Testament concept of baptism and the washing away of sins through faith in Christ. The emphasis on washing serves as a reminder of the holiness required to serve and approach a holy God.

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 basin.

2. The Basin (Laver)
A large bronze basin used for ceremonial washing, symbolizing purification and readiness to serve God.

3. Tent of Meeting
The sacred place where God met with Moses and the Israelites, representing God's presence among His people.

4. The Altar
The place of sacrifice, symbolizing atonement and worship.

5. The Israelites
God's chosen people, who were to follow His commandments and maintain purity in worship.

Teaching Points

Symbolism of Purification
The basin represents the need for spiritual cleansing before approaching God. Just as the priests washed before serving, believers must seek purity through repentance and faith in Christ.

Preparation for Worship
The placement of the basin between the Tent of Meeting and the altar signifies the importance of being spiritually prepared before entering God's presence or offering worship.

Continuous Cleansing
The need for regular washing at the basin illustrates the ongoing process of sanctification in a believer's life. Christians are called to continually seek God's forgiveness and renewal.

Holiness in Service
The priests' use of the basin underscores the call to holiness in service. Believers are to serve God with clean hands and pure hearts, reflecting His holiness in their actions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the placement of the basin between the Tent of Meeting and the altar reflect the relationship between purification and worship?

2. In what ways can the concept of the basin's cleansing be applied to our daily spiritual lives?

3. How does the symbolism of the basin in Exodus 40:30 connect to Jesus' actions in John 13:10?

4. What steps can we take to ensure we are spiritually prepared to enter God's presence, as symbolized by the washing at the basin?

5. How does the call to holiness in service, as demonstrated by the priests' use of the basin, challenge us in our own service to God and others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 8:6
This verse describes the washing of Aaron and his sons, connecting the basin's purpose to the consecration and purification of the priests.

Psalm 24:3-4
These verses emphasize the need for clean hands and a pure heart to stand in God's holy place, reflecting the symbolic meaning of the basin.

John 13:10
Jesus' washing of the disciples' feet highlights the importance of spiritual cleansing, echoing the purification theme of the basin.

Hebrews 10:22
This verse speaks of drawing near to God with a sincere heart and having our bodies washed with pure water, connecting to the ritual cleansing represented by the basin.