The completion of the Tabernacle setup marks a significant event in the history of the Israelites, as it represents the fulfillment of God's instructions to Moses and the establishment of a central place of worship for the people of Israel. This event is detailed in the Book of Exodus, particularly in chapters 35 through 40, where the construction and assembly of the Tabernacle are described.

Divine Instructions and Construction

The Tabernacle, also known as the Tent of Meeting, was constructed according to the precise instructions given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. These instructions are recorded in Exodus 25-31, where God provides detailed specifications for the materials, dimensions, and furnishings of the Tabernacle. The purpose of the Tabernacle was to serve as a dwelling place for God's presence among His people, as stated in Exodus 25:8 : "Then have them make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them."

The Israelites, under the leadership of Moses, contributed materials and skilled labor for the construction of the Tabernacle. The people brought offerings of gold, silver, bronze, fine linen, and other materials as their hearts were moved (Exodus 35:21-29). Skilled artisans, including Bezalel and Oholiab, were appointed to oversee the work, as they were filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship (Exodus 35:30-35).

Assembly and Consecration

The assembly of the Tabernacle was completed on the first day of the first month in the second year after the Israelites had left Egypt (Exodus 40:17). Moses oversaw the setup of the Tabernacle, ensuring that each component was placed according to God's command. The Ark of the Covenant, the table for the Bread of the Presence, the lampstand, the altar of incense, the altar of burnt offering, and the basin for washing were all positioned as instructed (Exodus 40:1-16).

Once the Tabernacle was erected, Moses anointed and consecrated it along with all its furnishings, as well as Aaron and his sons, who were appointed as priests (Exodus 40:9-15). This act of consecration set apart the Tabernacle and the priesthood for holy service to the Lord.

The Glory of the Lord

The completion of the Tabernacle was marked by a profound manifestation of God's presence. Exodus 40:34-35 records, "Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the Tabernacle. 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." This divine presence signified God's approval and His dwelling among His people, guiding them throughout their journey in the wilderness.

The cloud of the Lord rested over the Tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night, visible to all the house of Israel throughout their travels (Exodus 40:38). This visible sign of God's presence provided assurance and direction to the Israelites as they journeyed toward the Promised Land.

Significance in Israelite Worship

The completion of the Tabernacle setup established a central place for worship and sacrifice, where the Israelites could offer their sacrifices and seek atonement for their sins. It served as a tangible reminder of God's covenant with His people and His desire to dwell among them. The Tabernacle also foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, who would fulfill the role of the ultimate High Priest and the true dwelling place of God among humanity (John 1:14).

The Tabernacle's completion and the subsequent indwelling of God's glory underscored the importance of obedience to God's commands and the centrality of worship in the life of the Israelite community.