Exodus 40:35

Moses was unable to enter the Tent of Meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.

Study Bible

Moses was unable to enter
The phrase highlights a significant moment where Moses, the leader and prophet chosen by God, is unable to enter the Tent of Meeting. This inability signifies the overwhelming presence and holiness of God. In Hebrew, the word for "unable" (יָכֹל, yakol) implies a lack of capacity or power. This moment underscores the transcendence of God, reminding us that even the most faithful servants of God must recognize their limitations in the face of divine holiness.

the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, or "Ohel Moed" in Hebrew, was a sacred space where God communicated with Moses and the Israelites. It served as a physical representation of God's presence among His people. Archaeologically, the Tent of Meeting was a portable sanctuary, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle of the Israelites during their wilderness journey. This tent was a precursor to the more permanent Temple in Jerusalem, symbolizing God's desire to dwell among His people.

because the cloud had settled on it
The cloud represents the Shekinah glory, a visible manifestation of God's presence. The Hebrew word for "cloud" (עָנָן, anan) is often associated with divine guidance and protection, as seen throughout the Israelites' journey in the wilderness. The settling of the cloud signifies God's approval and consecration of the tabernacle, marking it as a holy place. This imagery reminds believers of God's constant presence and guidance in their lives.

and the glory of the LORD
The "glory of the LORD" (כְּבוֹד יְהוָה, kavod Yahweh) is a profound expression of God's majesty and holiness. The term "glory" in Hebrew conveys weightiness and honor, reflecting the awe-inspiring nature of God. This glory is not just a visual phenomenon but a revelation of God's character and power. It serves as a reminder of the reverence and worship due to God, who is both immanent and transcendent.

filled the tabernacle
The filling of the tabernacle with God's glory signifies the completion and sanctification of the sacred space. The Hebrew word for "filled" (מָלֵא, male) indicates a total and overwhelming presence. This act of filling demonstrates God's acceptance of the tabernacle as His dwelling place among the Israelites. It is a powerful reminder of God's desire to be intimately involved with His people, filling their lives with His presence and guiding them in their journey of faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt. In this verse, Moses is unable to enter the Tent of Meeting due to the presence of God's glory.

2. Tent of Meeting (Tabernacle)
A sacred place where God met with Moses and the Israelites. It was a portable earthly dwelling place of God among the people of Israel during their journey through the wilderness.

3. The Cloud
Represents the presence and glory of God. In the Hebrew text, the word for "cloud" is (anan), which often signifies divine presence and guidance.

4. The Glory of the LORD
The manifestation of God's presence. The Hebrew word for "glory" is (kavod), indicating weightiness, honor, and splendor.

5. The Israelites
The people of God, who were witnesses to the divine presence filling the tabernacle, signifying God's approval and presence among them.

Teaching Points

God's Presence is Holy and Powerful
The inability of Moses to enter the Tent of Meeting underscores the holiness and power of God's presence. We should approach God with reverence and awe.

God's Guidance and Approval
The cloud settling on the tabernacle signifies God's guidance and approval. We should seek God's presence and guidance in our lives, trusting His direction.

The Fulfillment in Christ
The tabernacle foreshadows Christ, who is the ultimate manifestation of God's presence. As believers, we have access to God's presence through Jesus.

The Importance of Obedience
The completion of the tabernacle according to God's instructions led to His glory filling it. Obedience to God's commands invites His presence into our lives.

Community Witness
The Israelites witnessed God's glory together, reminding us of the importance of communal worship and experiencing God's presence as a body of believers.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the presence of God in the cloud and the tabernacle in Exodus 40:35 compare to His presence in your life today?

2. In what ways can we prepare ourselves to experience God's glory and presence in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of God's glory filling the tabernacle relate to the New Testament understanding of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit?

4. What lessons can we learn from Moses' experience about approaching God with reverence and humility?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, create an environment where God's presence is welcomed and experienced collectively?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 24:15-18
Describes Moses entering the cloud on Mount Sinai, highlighting the significance of God's presence in a cloud.

1 Kings 8:10-11
When Solomon's temple was dedicated, the glory of the LORD filled the temple, preventing the priests from ministering, similar to Moses' experience.

John 1:14
The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, connecting the tabernacle's glory to Jesus Christ.

Revelation 21:3
God's dwelling is with humanity, echoing the theme of God's presence among His people.