Exodus 40:5

Place the gold altar of incense in front of the ark of the Testimony, and hang the curtain at the entrance to the tabernacle.

Study Bible

Place the gold altar of incense
The "gold altar of incense" is a significant element in the tabernacle, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God. The Hebrew word for "altar" is "mizbeach," which denotes a place of sacrifice or offering. The use of gold signifies purity and divinity, reflecting the holiness required in approaching God. Historically, incense was a precious commodity, often used in religious rituals to create an atmosphere of reverence and sanctity. The altar's placement signifies the importance of prayer and worship in the life of the Israelites, serving as a reminder that their relationship with God is central to their identity.

in front of the ark of the testimony
The "ark of the testimony" refers to the Ark of the Covenant, which housed the tablets of the Law given to Moses. The Hebrew term "aron" means chest or box, and "edut" means testimony or witness. This placement underscores the centrality of God's covenant with Israel. The ark is a tangible representation of God's presence and His promises. By placing the altar of incense in front of the ark, it symbolizes the direct connection between worship (incense) and the divine law (ark), highlighting that true worship is rooted in obedience to God's commandments.

and put up the curtain
The "curtain" or "veil" in Hebrew is "paroketh," which served as a barrier between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place within the tabernacle. This curtain represents the separation between God and humanity due to sin. Its presence is a constant reminder of the holiness of God and the need for atonement. In the New Testament, the tearing of the temple veil at Christ's crucifixion (Matthew 27:51) symbolizes the removal of this barrier, granting believers direct access to God through Jesus Christ.

at the entrance to the tabernacle
The "entrance to the tabernacle" is the point of access to the sacred space where God dwells among His people. The Hebrew word "mishkan" for tabernacle means dwelling place, indicating God's desire to be present with His people. The entrance signifies the invitation to enter into fellowship with God, yet it also serves as a reminder of the need for preparation and purification before approaching the divine presence. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God’s holiness and the call for His people to be holy as He is holy (Leviticus 19:2).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and to receive the Law, including the instructions for the tabernacle.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place for God among the Israelites, designed according to divine specifications given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

3. The Ark of the Testimony
Also known as the Ark of the Covenant, it is a sacred chest that housed the tablets of the Law, representing God's covenant with Israel.

4. The Gold Altar of Incense
A small altar placed in the Holy Place of the tabernacle, used for burning incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God.

5. The Curtain (Veil)
A significant barrier separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, symbolizing the separation between God and humanity due to sin.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
Moses followed God's instructions precisely, highlighting the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

Symbolism of the Incense
The altar of incense represents the prayers of believers. We are encouraged to maintain a life of prayer, knowing it is a pleasing aroma to God.

Access to God
The curtain symbolizes the separation caused by sin, but through Christ, we have direct access to God. This should encourage us to approach God with confidence.

Holiness and Reverence
The careful placement of each item in the tabernacle teaches us about the holiness of God and the reverence we should have in worship.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The tabernacle and its elements point to Christ, who fulfills the law and the prophets, providing a complete and perfect way to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the placement of the altar of incense in front of the ark of the testimony reflect the relationship between prayer and God's presence?

2. In what ways does the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' death change our understanding of access to God?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in Moses' actions to our daily lives?

4. What does the symbolism of the incense teach us about the nature and importance of prayer in our spiritual lives?

5. How does understanding the tabernacle's layout and function enhance our appreciation of Christ's role as our High Priest?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9
This chapter discusses the layout and significance of the tabernacle, including the role of the altar of incense and the veil, drawing parallels to Christ's work as our High Priest.

Revelation 8:3-4
These verses describe the incense as representing the prayers of the saints, connecting the Old Testament practice to New Testament worship.

Matthew 27:51
The tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion signifies the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, fulfilling the symbolism of the tabernacle veil.