The term "Interior Structures" in the context of the Bible often refers to the inner parts of sacred buildings, particularly the Tabernacle and the Temple, which held significant religious and symbolic meaning for the Israelites. These structures were meticulously designed and constructed according to divine instructions, serving as the earthly dwelling places of God's presence among His people.

The Tabernacle

The Tabernacle, also known as the Tent of Meeting, was the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness. Its design was revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai, as recorded in the Book of Exodus. The interior of the Tabernacle was divided into two main sections: the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (or Holy of Holies).

· The Holy Place: This section contained the Table of Showbread, the Golden Lampstand (Menorah), and the Altar of Incense. Each of these items held specific symbolic meanings and were used in the daily rituals performed by the priests. The Table of Showbread held twelve loaves of bread, representing the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 25:30). The Golden Lampstand provided light, symbolizing God's guidance and presence (Exodus 25:31-40). The Altar of Incense was used for burning incense, representing the prayers of the people ascending to God (Exodus 30:1-10).

· The Most Holy Place: This innermost chamber housed the Ark of the Covenant, which contained the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod that budded, and a jar of manna (Hebrews 9:4). The Ark was covered by the Mercy Seat, where the presence of God would appear. Only the High Priest could enter the Most Holy Place, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), to make atonement for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16:2-34).

The Temple

Solomon's Temple, also known as the First Temple, was a more permanent structure built in Jerusalem. Its design was based on the pattern of the Tabernacle but on a grander scale. The Temple's interior was similarly divided into the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place.

· The Holy Place: Like the Tabernacle, the Holy Place in the Temple contained the Table of Showbread, the Golden Lampstand, and the Altar of Incense. The Temple's furnishings were more elaborate, reflecting the wealth and stability of the Israelite kingdom under Solomon's reign (1 Kings 6:17-22).

· The Most Holy Place: The Most Holy Place in the Temple also housed the Ark of the Covenant. The room was overlaid with gold, and two large cherubim made of olive wood and overlaid with gold stood in the inner sanctuary, symbolizing the divine presence (1 Kings 6:23-28). The veil separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place was a significant feature, representing the separation between God and humanity due to sin.

Symbolism and Significance

The interior structures of the Tabernacle and the Temple were rich in symbolism, pointing to deeper spiritual truths. The meticulous design and the materials used, such as gold, silver, and precious stones, reflected the holiness and majesty of God. The separation of the Most Holy Place underscored the concept of God's holiness and the need for atonement and mediation.

In the New Testament, these structures find their fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is described as the true Temple (John 2:19-21) and the High Priest who entered the heavenly sanctuary once for all, securing eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:11-12). The tearing of the Temple veil at the moment of Christ's death symbolized the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, granting believers direct access to God's presence (Matthew 27:51).

The interior structures of the Tabernacle and the Temple thus serve as profound illustrations of God's desire to dwell among His people and the means by which He provided for their reconciliation and communion with Him.