Topical Bible: Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant: Directions for Making

◄ Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant: Directions for Making ►

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The Ark of the Covenant, a central and sacred object within the Tabernacle, holds profound significance in the biblical narrative. It is described in detail in the Book of Exodus, where God provides Moses with specific instructions for its construction. The Ark served as a tangible representation of God's covenant with the Israelites and His presence among them.

Biblical Instructions for Construction

The directions for making the Ark of the Covenant are found in Exodus 25:10-22. According to these passages, the Ark was to be crafted with precision and care, reflecting its holy purpose.

1. Materials and Dimensions: The Ark was to be made of acacia wood, a durable and resilient material. Its dimensions were specified as two and a half cubits long, one and a half cubits wide, and one and a half cubits high (Exodus 25:10). This translates to approximately 3.75 feet long, 2.25 feet wide, and 2.25 feet high.

2. Overlay and Molding: The Ark was to be overlaid with pure gold, both inside and out, signifying its sacredness and the divine presence it would house. A gold molding was to be made around it (Exodus 25:11).

3. Rings and Poles: Four gold rings were to be cast and fastened to the Ark's four feet, two rings on each side. Poles made of acacia wood, also overlaid with gold, were to be inserted into these rings to allow the Ark to be carried (Exodus 25:12-15). The poles were to remain in the rings of the Ark and were not to be removed, ensuring that the Ark could be transported without direct contact.

4. The Mercy Seat: A mercy seat of pure gold was to be made, measuring two and a half cubits long and one and a half cubits wide, to cover the Ark (Exodus 25:17). This mercy seat served as the lid of the Ark and was the place where God would meet with Moses.

5. Cherubim: Two cherubim of hammered gold were to be made at the two ends of the mercy seat. These cherubim were to face each other, with their wings spread upward, overshadowing the mercy seat (Exodus 25:18-20). The presence of the cherubim symbolized the heavenly throne of God.

6. Contents of the Ark: The Ark was to contain the Testimony, which refers to the stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments, given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25:16). These tablets represented the covenant between God and the Israelites.

Significance and Symbolism

The Ark of the Covenant was not merely a religious artifact; it was a profound symbol of God's covenantal relationship with His people. It represented His law, His presence, and His mercy. The detailed instructions for its construction underscore the importance of obedience and reverence in worship. The Ark was central to the Israelites' worship and was housed in the Most Holy Place of the Tabernacle, where only the high priest could enter once a year on the Day of Atonement to make atonement for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16:2).

The Ark's design and the materials used reflect the holiness and majesty of God, serving as a constant reminder to the Israelites of His divine presence and the sacredness of His covenant.

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Exodus 25:10-15
And they shall make an ark of shittim wood: two cubits and a half shall be the length thereof, and a cubit and a half the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof.
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