The LORD's Tabernacle, also known as the Tent of Meeting, holds a significant place in the history of Israel as the portable earthly dwelling place of Yahweh among the Israelites. It was constructed under the direct command of God to Moses during the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and served as the central place of worship and sacrifice until the building of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem.

Biblical Instructions and Construction

The instructions for the Tabernacle are detailed in the Book of Exodus, chapters 25 through 31. God commanded Moses, "Let them make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them" (Exodus 25:8). The design was divinely inspired, with God providing specific details regarding its dimensions, materials, and furnishings. The Tabernacle was to be constructed from acacia wood and overlaid with gold, with curtains of fine linen and goat hair, and coverings of ram skins dyed red and hides of sea cows.

The structure consisted of three main areas: the Outer Court, the Holy Place, and the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies). The Outer Court contained the bronze altar for burnt offerings and the bronze basin for ceremonial washing. The Holy Place housed the table of showbread, the golden lampstand, and the altar of incense. The Most Holy Place, separated by a veil, contained the Ark of the Covenant, which held the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a jar of manna.

Symbolism and Function

The Tabernacle served as a symbol of God's presence among His people and His desire to dwell with them. It was a place where the Israelites could offer sacrifices and seek atonement for their sins. The sacrificial system, as outlined in Leviticus, was central to the Tabernacle's function, emphasizing the need for holiness and the seriousness of sin.

The Tabernacle also prefigured the coming of Jesus Christ, who is seen as the ultimate fulfillment of the Tabernacle's purpose. The Gospel of John states, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us" (John 1:14), using the Greek word "σκηνόω" (skenoo), which means "to tabernacle" or "to pitch a tent." This connection highlights the Tabernacle as a foreshadowing of Christ's incarnation and His role as the mediator between God and humanity.

Priestly Role and Rituals

The Levitical priesthood, established by God, was responsible for the Tabernacle's service. Aaron and his sons were consecrated as priests, with Aaron serving as the first high priest. The priests performed daily rituals, including the offering of sacrifices, the burning of incense, and the maintenance of the lampstand. The high priest entered the Most Holy Place once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) to make atonement for the sins of the people, as described in Leviticus 16.

Historical Significance

The Tabernacle accompanied the Israelites throughout their wilderness journey and into the Promised Land. It was set up at various locations, including Shiloh, where it remained for several centuries. The Tabernacle's design and function influenced the later construction of the Temple in Jerusalem, which became the permanent dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

The LORD's Tabernacle remains a profound testament to God's desire for relationship with His people and His provision for their spiritual needs. Its intricate design and sacrificial system underscore the holiness of God and the necessity of atonement, themes that resonate throughout the biblical narrative.