The term "Temple Articles" refers to the sacred objects used in the worship and rituals of the Temple in Jerusalem, as described in the Bible. These articles were integral to the religious life of ancient Israel and were meticulously crafted according to divine instructions. They served both functional and symbolic purposes, representing the holiness and presence of God among His people.

1. The Ark of the Covenant

The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred of all the Temple articles. It was a wooden chest overlaid with gold, containing the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna (Hebrews 9:4). The Ark was housed in the Holy of Holies, the innermost sanctuary of the Temple, and was considered the earthly throne of God. "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 Altar of Burnt Offering

Located in the Temple courtyard, the Altar of Burnt Offering was used for animal sacrifices. Constructed of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, it symbolized atonement and reconciliation with God. "You are to make the altar of acacia wood, five cubits long and five cubits wide; the altar is to be square, and three cubits high" (Exodus 27:1).

3. The Bronze Basin

Also known as the "laver," the Bronze Basin was used by the priests for ceremonial washing before performing their duties. It was a symbol of purification and was placed between the Tent of Meeting and the altar. "You are to make a bronze basin for washing, with a bronze stand. Set it between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and put water in it" (Exodus 30:18).

4. The Golden Lampstand (Menorah)

The Golden Lampstand, or Menorah, was a seven-branched candelabrum made of pure gold. It was placed in the Holy Place and provided light within the sanctuary. The Menorah symbolized the light of God and His eternal presence. "You are to make a lampstand of pure gold; the lampstand and its base and shaft are to be made of hammered metal; its cups, buds, and petals shall be of one piece" (Exodus 25:31).

5. The Table of Showbread

The Table of Showbread, also known as the Bread of the Presence, was made of acacia wood overlaid with gold. It held twelve loaves of bread, representing the twelve tribes of Israel, and was placed in the Holy Place. "And you are to set the bread of the Presence on the table before Me at all times" (Exodus 25:30).

6. The Altar of Incense

The Altar of Incense was a small altar made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, located in the Holy Place. Incense was burned on it every morning and evening, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God. "You are to make an altar of acacia wood for the burning of incense" (Exodus 30:1).

7. The Veil

The Veil was a curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies. It was made of fine linen and blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim woven into it. The Veil symbolized the separation between God and humanity due to sin. "You are to make a veil of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, with cherubim skillfully worked into it" (Exodus 26:31).

8. The Priestly Garments

The garments worn by the priests, particularly the high priest, were considered Temple articles. These included the ephod, breastplate, robe, tunic, turban, and sash, each with specific symbolic meanings and functions. "Make holy garments for your brother Aaron, to give him glory and splendor" (Exodus 28:2).

These Temple articles were not only functional but also deeply symbolic, reflecting the covenant relationship between God and Israel. They pointed to the holiness required to approach God and foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice and mediation of Jesus Christ, as understood in Christian theology.