The setting up of the Tabernacle is a significant event in the history of Israel, marking the establishment of a central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. The instructions for constructing and setting up the Tabernacle are detailed in the Book of Exodus, primarily in chapters 25 through 40.

Divine Instructions

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 encompassed every aspect of the Tabernacle, including its dimensions, materials, furnishings, and the priestly garments. The purpose of the Tabernacle was to provide a sacred space where God could dwell among the Israelites and where they could offer sacrifices and worship.

Construction and Materials

The materials used for the Tabernacle were contributed by the Israelites as freewill offerings. These included gold, silver, bronze, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, fine linen, goat hair, ram skins dyed red, and hides of sea cows, among other items (Exodus 25:1-9). Skilled artisans, filled with the Spirit of God, were appointed to oversee the construction (Exodus 31:1-11).

Erection of the Tabernacle

The actual setting up of the Tabernacle is described in Exodus 40. The Lord commanded Moses to set up the Tabernacle on the first day of the first month of the second year after the Israelites had left Egypt (Exodus 40:1-2). Moses followed the Lord's instructions meticulously, ensuring that every component was placed according to the divine plan.

The process began with the erection of the Tabernacle's framework, followed by the placement of the Ark of the Covenant in the Most Holy Place, separated by the veil. The table for the Bread of the Presence, the lampstand, and the altar of incense were placed in the Holy Place. The altar of burnt offering and the bronze basin were positioned in the courtyard (Exodus 40:17-33).

Consecration and Anointing

Once the Tabernacle was set up, it was consecrated and anointed with oil, signifying its holiness and dedication to the Lord. Moses anointed the Tabernacle and all its furnishings, as well as Aaron and his sons, who were appointed as priests to serve in the Tabernacle (Exodus 40:9-15).

The Glory of the Lord

Upon completion, the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle, signifying God's approval and His presence dwelling among His people. "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" (Exodus 40:34-35).

Significance

The setting up of the Tabernacle was a pivotal moment for the Israelites, as it represented God's covenantal relationship with them and His desire to dwell among His chosen people. It served as the center of Israelite worship and the focal point of their religious life throughout their wilderness journey and into the Promised Land. The Tabernacle foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, who would dwell among humanity as the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with His people (John 1:14).