Exodus 37:6

He constructed a mercy seat of pure gold, two and a half cubits long and a cubit and a half wide.

Study Bible

He constructed a mercy seat of pure gold
The mercy seat, or "kapporet" in Hebrew, was the cover of the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing God's throne on earth. It was made of pure gold, indicating its divine nature and the holiness required to approach God. Gold, a precious and incorruptible metal, signifies purity and the glory of God. The mercy seat was where the high priest would sprinkle the blood of the sacrifice on the Day of Atonement, symbolizing atonement and reconciliation between God and His people. This act foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood provides eternal atonement for sin.

two and a half cubits long and a cubit and a half wide
The dimensions of the mercy seat, approximately 45 inches long and 27 inches wide, match those of the Ark of the Covenant, ensuring a perfect fit. The specific measurements highlight the precision and orderliness of God's instructions, reflecting His nature. The use of cubits, an ancient unit of measure based on the length of the forearm, connects the construction to the cultural and historical context of the Israelites. The precise dimensions also emphasize the importance of following God's commands exactly, as seen throughout the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bezalel
The skilled craftsman chosen by God to construct the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the mercy seat. He was filled with the Spirit of God to carry out this sacred task.

2. Mercy Seat
A significant component of the Ark of the Covenant, made of pure gold, symbolizing God's throne and His presence among His people. It was the place where God would meet with Moses and the high priest on the Day of Atonement.

3. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that housed the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. It represented God's covenant with Israel and His presence with them.

4. Tabernacle
The portable sanctuary where the Israelites worshiped God during their journey through the wilderness. It was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

5. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and journeyed through the wilderness to the Promised Land. They were the recipients of God's covenant and the Law.

Teaching Points

Symbol of God's Presence
The mercy seat represents God's throne and His presence among His people. As believers, we are reminded that God desires to dwell with us and be central in our lives.

Atonement and Forgiveness
The mercy seat was the place of atonement, where the high priest would offer sacrifices for the sins of the people. In Christ, we have a perfect and final atonement, offering us forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

Craftsmanship and Obedience
Bezalel's work on the mercy seat highlights the importance of using our God-given talents for His glory. We are called to serve God with excellence and obedience in whatever He has entrusted to us.

Holiness and Reverence
The pure gold of the mercy seat signifies the holiness and purity required to approach God. As believers, we are called to live lives of holiness and reverence, recognizing the sacredness of God's presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the mercy seat reflect the character and holiness of God?

2. In what ways does the mercy seat foreshadow the work of Christ as our High Priest and atoning sacrifice?

3. How can we apply the principles of craftsmanship and obedience seen in Bezalel's work to our own lives and vocations?

4. What does the concept of atonement mean for us today, and how should it impact our relationship with God and others?

5. How can we cultivate a sense of holiness and reverence in our daily walk with God, recognizing His presence in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9
This chapter discusses the significance of the mercy seat in the context of the New Covenant, highlighting Christ's role as the ultimate High Priest who offers His own blood for atonement.

Leviticus 16
Describes the Day of Atonement, when the high priest would sprinkle blood on the mercy seat to atone for the sins of Israel, prefiguring Christ's atoning sacrifice.

Romans 3
Paul speaks of Jesus as the propitiation for our sins, using the imagery of the mercy seat to describe how Christ's sacrifice satisfies God's justice and extends mercy to believers.