The term "Main Hall" is not explicitly found in the Bible; however, it can be understood in the context of ancient Israelite architecture and worship practices, particularly in relation to the Tabernacle and the Temple. The concept of a main hall is often associated with the central area of worship where significant religious activities took place.

Tabernacle and Temple Context

In the Old Testament, the Tabernacle served as the portable dwelling place for the presence of God among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The Tabernacle had a specific layout, including the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies). While the term "Main Hall" is not used, the Holy Place can be considered a central area where priests performed their duties. Exodus 26:33-34 describes the separation of these areas: "Hang the veil from the clasps, and place the ark of the Testimony behind the veil. The veil will separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. Put the mercy seat on the ark of the Testimony in the Most Holy Place."

The First Temple, built by King Solomon, expanded upon the design of the Tabernacle. The Temple included a large hall known as the "Hekal" or "Holy Place," which served as the main area for priestly activities. 1 Kings 6:17 states, "The main hall in front of the inner sanctuary was forty cubits long." This hall was a significant part of the Temple's structure, emphasizing its role as a central place of worship and sacrifice.

Function and Symbolism

The main hall of the Temple was a place where priests conducted daily rituals, including the burning of incense and the maintenance of the lampstand. It was a space that symbolized the holiness and presence of God, accessible only to the priestly class. The design and function of the main hall underscored the separation between the divine and the ordinary, highlighting the sacredness of worship and the reverence due to God.

The main hall also served as a place of assembly for the people of Israel during significant religious festivals and events. It was a focal point for communal worship and a symbol of the covenant relationship between God and His people.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the concept of a physical main hall is transformed through the teachings of Jesus Christ. The emphasis shifts from a physical structure to a spiritual understanding of worship. Jesus speaks of worship in spirit and truth, as seen in John 4:23-24 : "But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him. God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship Him in spirit and in truth."

The early Christian community gathered in homes and other informal settings, reflecting the belief that God's presence was not confined to a specific location. The idea of a main hall, therefore, becomes less about a physical space and more about the gathering of believers in the presence of God.

Conclusion

While the term "Main Hall" is not directly mentioned in the Bible, its concept is integral to understanding the worship practices and architectural design of the Tabernacle and Temple. It represents a central place of worship, symbolizing the holiness of God and the communal aspect of faith. In the New Testament, the focus shifts to a spiritual understanding of worship, emphasizing the presence of God among His people regardless of physical location.