The "Articles of the House of the LORD" refer to the various sacred items and furnishings used in the worship and service of God in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple in Jerusalem. These articles were crafted according to divine instructions given to Moses and later to King Solomon, reflecting the holiness and majesty of God. They played a crucial role in the religious life of Israel, symbolizing God's presence and the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Tabernacle Articles

1. The Ark of the Covenant: The most sacred article, the Ark was a gold-covered wooden chest containing the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna (Hebrews 9:4). It was placed in the Holy of Holies, symbolizing God's throne on earth. "There I will meet with you and speak with you from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim that are on the ark of the Testimony" (Exodus 25:22).

2. The Table of Showbread: Made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, this table held the Bread of the Presence, which was replaced every Sabbath (Leviticus 24:5-9). It symbolized God's provision and fellowship with His people.

3. The Golden Lampstand (Menorah): Crafted from a single piece of gold, the lampstand had seven branches and was kept burning continually in the Holy Place (Exodus 25:31-40). It represented the light of God's presence and guidance.

4. The Altar of Incense: This small, gold-covered altar stood before the veil separating the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies. Incense was burned on it every morning and evening, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God (Exodus 30:1-10).

5. The Bronze Altar: Located in the courtyard, this altar was used for burnt offerings and sacrifices, signifying atonement and reconciliation with God (Exodus 27:1-8).

6. The Bronze Basin (Laver): Positioned between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, the basin was used by the priests for ceremonial washing, emphasizing the need for purity (Exodus 30:17-21).

Temple Articles

When Solomon built the Temple, he expanded and enhanced the articles used in worship, maintaining the sacred traditions established in the Tabernacle.

1. The Temple Furnishings: Solomon's Temple included larger and more elaborate versions of the Tabernacle articles, such as the ten lampstands and ten tables for the showbread (1 Kings 7:48-50).

2. The Sea of Cast Metal: A large basin supported by twelve oxen, used for the priests' ritual washing (1 Kings 7:23-26).

3. The Golden Altar and Table: Similar to those in the Tabernacle but more ornate, these articles continued to serve their symbolic functions in the Temple (2 Chronicles 4:19).

Historical Significance

The articles of the House of the LORD were central to Israel's worship and identity. They were meticulously crafted and maintained, reflecting the Israelites' reverence for God's holiness. Throughout history, these sacred items were often targets during invasions and conquests, such as when the Babylonians destroyed the Temple and carried off its treasures (2 Kings 25:13-17).

The articles also foreshadowed the coming of Christ, who fulfilled the law and the prophets. The New Testament presents Jesus as the ultimate High Priest and the perfect sacrifice, rendering the old sacrificial system obsolete (Hebrews 9:11-14).

In summary, the articles of the House of the LORD were not merely religious artifacts but profound symbols of God's covenant, presence, and the hope of redemption.