Exodus 40:7

And place the basin between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and put water in it.

Study Bible

And place
The Hebrew word for "place" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to give, set, or appoint. This action is not merely about positioning but involves a deliberate and purposeful act of setting something in its rightful place. In the context of the Tabernacle, every item had a specific role and location, symbolizing order and divine instruction. This reflects the importance of obedience and precision in following God's commands, emphasizing that every detail in worship matters.

the basin
The basin, or "כִּיּוֹר" (kiyor) in Hebrew, was a large, bronze laver used for ceremonial washing. It symbolizes purification and the necessity of being clean before approaching God. The basin's construction from the mirrors of the women who served at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting (Exodus 38:8) highlights the transformation from self-reflection to divine service. This act of washing prefigures the New Testament concept of spiritual cleansing through Christ.

between the Tent of Meeting
The "Tent of Meeting," or "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (ohel mo'ed), was the sacred space where God met with Moses and the Israelites. It represents God's desire to dwell among His people and the centrality of His presence in their community. The positioning of the basin between the Tent and the altar signifies the necessary preparation and purification before entering into God's presence, underscoring the holiness required to approach Him.

and the altar
The altar, or "מִזְבֵּחַ" (mizbeach), was the place of sacrifice, symbolizing atonement and reconciliation with God. It was central to the Israelites' worship, representing the means by which they could approach God through the shedding of blood. The proximity of the basin to the altar highlights the connection between cleansing and sacrifice, pointing to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who cleanses us from sin.

and put water in it
Water, or "מַיִם" (mayim), is a symbol of life, purification, and the Holy Spirit throughout Scripture. The act of filling the basin with water signifies readiness for purification and the ongoing need for spiritual cleansing. In the New Testament, water baptism becomes a powerful symbol of this cleansing and renewal, reflecting the believer's identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. This phrase reminds us of the continual need for spiritual renewal and the sustaining power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

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. He is responsible for setting up the Tabernacle as instructed by God.

2. The Tent of Meeting
Also known as the Tabernacle, this was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. It was a central place for worship and sacrifices.

3. The Altar
Specifically, the altar of burnt offering, which was used for sacrifices. It was located in the courtyard of the Tabernacle.

4. The Basin
A large bronze laver used for ceremonial washing by the priests. It was placed between the Tent of Meeting and the altar.

5. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were being led through the wilderness to the Promised Land. They were to follow the laws and instructions given by God through Moses.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Purity
The placement of the basin signifies the necessity of purification before approaching God. Just as the priests needed to wash before entering the Tent of Meeting, we must seek spiritual cleansing through repentance and faith in Christ.

Symbolism of Water
Water is a powerful symbol of cleansing and renewal. In the New Testament, baptism represents the washing away of sins and the beginning of a new life in Christ.

Obedience to God's Instructions
Moses' careful adherence to God's instructions for setting up the Tabernacle teaches us the importance of obedience in our walk with God. We are called to follow His Word diligently.

The Role of the Mediator
Moses acted as a mediator between God and the Israelites, foreshadowing Christ, our ultimate Mediator, who provides us access to God through His sacrifice.

Preparation for Worship
The physical preparation of the Tabernacle and its elements reminds us of the need to prepare our hearts and minds for worship, ensuring we approach God with reverence and humility.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the placement of the basin between the Tent of Meeting and the altar reflect the need for purification before approaching God?

2. In what ways does the role of Moses in setting up the Tabernacle parallel the role of Christ as our Mediator?

3. How can the symbolism of water in the Old Testament rituals be applied to our understanding of baptism and spiritual cleansing today?

4. What lessons can we learn from Moses' obedience to God's detailed instructions, and how can we apply these lessons in our daily lives?

5. How does the concept of preparation for worship in the Old Testament inform our approach to worship in the New Testament context?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 8:6
This verse describes the washing of Aaron and his sons, which is a direct application of the use of the basin for ceremonial cleansing.

John 13:10
Jesus washes the disciples' feet, symbolizing spiritual cleansing, which connects to the purpose of the basin for purification.

Hebrews 10:22
This verse speaks of drawing near to God with a sincere heart and having our bodies washed with pure water, echoing the cleansing rituals of the Old Testament.