Exodus 40:34

Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.

Study Bible

Then the cloud
The "cloud" here is a manifestation of God's presence, often referred to as the Shekinah glory. In Hebrew, the word for cloud is "עָנָן" (anan), which is frequently associated with divine guidance and protection throughout the Israelites' journey. This cloud was not just a natural phenomenon but a supernatural sign of God's immediate presence and favor. Historically, clouds were seen as symbols of mystery and divine majesty, emphasizing God's transcendence and immanence.

covered 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 word for "covered" is "כָּסָה" (kasah), which implies a complete enveloping or overshadowing. This signifies God's protective and encompassing presence over His people. The Tent of Meeting was central to Israelite worship and community life, serving as the focal point for divine-human interaction.

and the glory of the LORD
The "glory" (Hebrew: "כָּבוֹד", kavod) of the LORD refers to the weighty, majestic presence of God. It is a visible manifestation of His holiness and power. In the Old Testament, God's glory is often associated with light, fire, and overwhelming splendor, signifying His supreme authority and purity. The glory of the LORD is a recurring theme, representing His covenantal faithfulness and His desire to dwell among His people.

filled the tabernacle
The Hebrew word for "filled" is "מָלֵא" (male), indicating a complete and total presence. The tabernacle, as the dwelling place of God, was now fully inhabited by His glory, signifying the completion of the Israelites' obedience in constructing it according to divine specifications. This filling marks the culmination of the Exodus narrative, where God establishes His presence among His chosen people, affirming His covenant and guiding them into the future.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Cloud
Represents God's presence and guidance. In the Hebrew text, the word for cloud is (anan), which often signifies divine presence and protection.

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 Glory of the LORD
The Hebrew word for glory is (kabod), indicating the weighty, majestic presence of God that filled the tabernacle.

4. The Tabernacle
A sacred place where God chose to dwell among His people, symbolizing His desire to be near them and guide them.

5. Moses
As the leader of the Israelites, Moses was instrumental in the construction of the Tabernacle according to God's instructions.

Teaching Points

God's Presence
The cloud covering the Tent of Meeting signifies God's desire to be present with His people. We can seek His presence in our daily lives through prayer and worship.

Holiness and Reverence
The filling of the Tabernacle with God's glory reminds us of the holiness of God. We should approach Him with reverence and awe.

Guidance and Protection
Just as the cloud guided the Israelites, we can trust God to guide and protect us in our life's journey.

Obedience to God's Instructions
Moses and the Israelites followed God's detailed instructions for the Tabernacle. We are called to obey God's Word in our lives.

God's Faithfulness
The presence of God in the Tabernacle is a testament to His faithfulness to His promises. We can rely on His faithfulness in our own lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the presence of the cloud over the Tent of Meeting reflect God's relationship with His people?

2. In what ways can we experience the "glory of the LORD" in our personal lives today?

3. How does the concept of God dwelling among His people in the Tabernacle connect to the New Testament understanding of Jesus and the Holy Spirit?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure that our lives are "filled with the glory of the LORD"?

5. How can the obedience of Moses and the Israelites in constructing the Tabernacle inspire us to follow God's instructions in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 13:21-22
The cloud by day and fire by night that led the Israelites, showing continuity in God's guidance and presence.

1 Kings 8:10-11
The filling of Solomon's Temple with the glory of the LORD, paralleling the filling of the Tabernacle.

John 1:14
The Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us, echoing the concept of God dwelling with His people.

Revelation 21:3
The ultimate fulfillment of God dwelling with His people in the new heaven and new earth.