In biblical terminology, "The Court" often refers to the designated open area surrounding the Tabernacle in the wilderness and later the Temple in Jerusalem. This space held significant religious and communal functions in the life of the Israelites, serving as a place for worship, sacrifice, and assembly.

The Court of the Tabernacle

The Court of the Tabernacle is first described in the Book of Exodus. God provided Moses with detailed instructions for its construction. The court was a rectangular enclosure, measuring 100 cubits long and 50 cubits wide (approximately 150 feet by 75 feet), surrounded by a fence made of fine twisted linen curtains supported by bronze pillars (Exodus 27:9-19). The entrance was on the east side, symbolizing the direction of the rising sun and the hope of new beginnings.

Within the court stood the bronze altar for burnt offerings and the bronze basin for ceremonial washing (Exodus 30:18-21). The altar was the focal point for sacrifices, where offerings were made to atone for sin and express devotion to God. The basin was used by the priests to wash their hands and feet before performing their duties, emphasizing the importance of purity and holiness.

The Court of the Temple

Solomon's Temple, and later the Second Temple, expanded upon the concept of the court. The Temple complex included several courts, each with specific purposes and restrictions. The most notable were the Court of the Gentiles, the Court of Women, the Court of Israel, and the Court of the Priests.

1. The Court of the Gentiles: This was the outermost court and the only area where non-Jews were permitted. It served as a place for teaching and commerce, although Jesus famously cleansed it of money changers, declaring, "My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations" (Mark 11:17).

2. The Court of Women: Located closer to the Temple, this court was accessible to Jewish women and men. It was a place for worship and included the Treasury, where offerings were collected (Mark 12:41-44).

3. The Court of Israel: This court was reserved for Jewish men. It was situated between the Court of Women and the Court of the Priests, allowing men to participate more directly in the sacrificial rituals.

4. The Court of the Priests: The innermost court, accessible only to the priests, contained the altar of burnt offerings, the laver, and the entrance to the Temple itself. This court was the center of sacrificial worship and priestly duties.

Symbolism and Significance

The courts of the Tabernacle and Temple were not merely architectural features but held deep theological significance. They represented the progressive approach to God's holiness, with increasing levels of sanctity as one moved closer to the Holy of Holies. The courts facilitated communal worship and underscored the covenant relationship between God and His people.

The courts also foreshadowed the coming of Christ, who would fulfill the sacrificial system and open the way for all believers to approach God directly. As the Apostle Paul writes, "In Him and through faith in Him we may enter God's presence with boldness and confidence" (Ephesians 3:12).

Conclusion

The concept of "The Court" in biblical times was integral to the worship and religious life of Israel. It provided a structured environment for sacrifice, prayer, and community, reflecting the holiness and order of God. Through the courts, the Israelites experienced a tangible connection to the divine, a precursor to the spiritual access granted through Jesus Christ.