Exodus 26:35

And place the table outside the veil on the north side of the tabernacle, and put the lampstand opposite the table, on the south side.

Study Bible

And place the table outside the veil
The table referred to here is the Table of Showbread, which held the bread of the Presence. This bread symbolized God's provision and His covenant with Israel. The table's placement outside the veil signifies its role in the Holy Place, accessible to the priests but not within the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant resided. The veil itself represents the separation between God and humanity due to sin, a barrier that would later be torn at Christ's crucifixion (Matthew 27:51), symbolizing direct access to God through Jesus.

on the north side of the tabernacle
The north side of the tabernacle was significant in its orientation, as the tabernacle was always set up facing east. The north side placement of the table may symbolize stability and provision, as north often represents a place of abundance in biblical literature (Psalm 48:2). The specific positioning also ensured a balanced and orderly arrangement within the Holy Place, reflecting God's nature of order and precision.

and put the lampstand opposite the table
The lampstand, or menorah, was placed opposite the table to provide light within the Holy Place. This light was essential for the priests to perform their duties and symbolizes the illumination of God's presence and truth. The menorah's design, with its almond blossoms and branches, is rich in symbolism, pointing to life, growth, and the light of God that guides His people. In the New Testament, Jesus refers to Himself as the "light of the world" (John 8:12), fulfilling the symbolism of the lampstand.

on the south side
The south side placement of the lampstand ensured that its light would shine across the Holy Place, illuminating the table and the altar of incense. This strategic positioning highlights the importance of light in worship and service to God. The south, often associated with warmth and light, complements the function of the lampstand. The arrangement within the tabernacle reflects a divine blueprint, emphasizing the importance of God's presence and guidance in the life of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who received the instructions for the tabernacle from God on Mount Sinai.

2. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where God dwelled among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. Table of Showbread
A sacred table placed on the north side of the tabernacle, holding the bread of the Presence, symbolizing God's provision.

4. Lampstand (Menorah)
A seven-branched lampstand placed on the south side of the tabernacle, symbolizing God's light and presence.

5. Veil
The curtain separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, representing the barrier between God and humanity due to sin.

Teaching Points

God's Order and Design
The specific placement of the table and lampstand reflects God's intentional design and order in worship. This teaches us the importance of following God's instructions in our lives and worship practices.

Symbolism of Provision and Light
The table of showbread and the lampstand symbolize God's provision and light. As believers, we are called to rely on God's provision and reflect His light in the world.

Access to God's Presence
The veil in the tabernacle represented separation due to sin. With Christ's sacrifice, the barrier is removed, granting us direct access to God. This encourages us to approach God with confidence and gratitude.

Holiness in Worship
The careful arrangement of the tabernacle's furnishings underscores the holiness required in worship. We are reminded to approach God with reverence and purity in our worship today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the specific placement of the table and lampstand in the tabernacle reflect God's order and design in worship?

2. In what ways can we rely on God's provision and reflect His light in our daily lives, as symbolized by the table of showbread and the lampstand?

3. How does the tearing of the veil at Jesus' crucifixion impact our understanding of access to God's presence today?

4. What lessons can we learn about the importance of holiness and reverence in worship from the arrangement of the tabernacle's furnishings?

5. How do the roles of the table and lampstand in the tabernacle connect to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, particularly in John 8:12?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 24:5-9
Describes the preparation and placement of the showbread, emphasizing the importance of God's provision and presence.

John 8:12
Jesus declares Himself the Light of the World, connecting to the symbolism of the lampstand as a representation of divine light.

Hebrews 9:2-3
Discusses the layout of the tabernacle, including the placement of the table and lampstand, highlighting the significance of these items in worship.

Matthew 27:51
The tearing of the veil at Jesus' crucifixion, symbolizing the removal of the barrier between God and humanity.