Exodus 40:26

Moses placed the gold altar in the Tent of Meeting, in front of the veil,

Study Bible

Moses placed the gold altar
The gold altar, also known as the altar of incense, was a crucial element in the Tabernacle's design. It was made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold, signifying its sacred purpose (Exodus 30:1-3). The altar was used for burning incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 8:3-4). Its placement by Moses indicates obedience to God's specific instructions (Exodus 30:6). The use of gold represents purity and divinity, pointing to the holiness required in approaching God.

in the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, also known as the Tabernacle, was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. It served as the central place of worship and sacrifice (Exodus 25:8-9). The Tent of Meeting was a precursor to the Temple in Jerusalem and symbolized God's presence with His people (Exodus 29:42-43). It was a place where Moses and the priests would communicate with God, highlighting the importance of divine guidance and fellowship.

in front of the veil
The veil separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies) within the Tabernacle (Exodus 26:31-33). This veil was a barrier that only the high priest could pass through once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:2). The positioning of the gold altar in front of the veil signifies the intercessory role of the priests, as the incense offered on this altar was a form of mediation between God and the people. The veil itself is a type of Christ, whose death tore the veil, granting believers direct access to God (Matthew 27:51; Hebrews 10:19-20).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who was instructed by God to set up the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the gold altar.

2. The Tent of Meeting
Also known as the Tabernacle, it was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. The Gold Altar
Also referred to as the Altar of Incense, it was placed in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God.

4. The Veil
A curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies) in the Tabernacle, signifying the separation between God and man due to sin.

5. The Israelites
The people of God, who were given the law and instructions for worship through Moses.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Worship
The placement of the gold altar in front of the veil emphasizes the importance of worship and prayer in approaching God. As believers, we are called to prioritize our relationship with God through regular prayer and worship.

The Role of Intercession
The altar of incense symbolizes intercession. Just as the incense rose before God, our prayers and intercessions for others are a vital part of our spiritual life and service to God.

The Barrier of Sin
The veil represents the separation caused by sin. In Christ, the veil is torn, granting us direct access to God. This should encourage us to live in the freedom and grace provided by Jesus' sacrifice.

The Holiness of God
The careful placement and use of the altar remind us of God's holiness and the reverence we must have in His presence. Our worship should reflect a deep respect and awe for who God is.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the placement of the gold altar in front of the veil reflect the relationship between prayer and God's presence?

2. In what ways does the symbolism of the veil in the Tabernacle enhance our understanding of Christ's work on the cross?

3. How can we incorporate the principle of intercession, as symbolized by the altar of incense, into our daily prayer life?

4. What does the tearing of the veil at Christ's crucifixion signify for our personal access to God, and how should this impact our worship?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper sense of reverence and holiness in our approach to worship, in light of the Tabernacle's design and purpose?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 16
Describes the Day of Atonement, where the high priest would enter the Most Holy Place, highlighting the significance of the veil and the separation it represented.

Hebrews 9
Discusses the earthly sanctuary and its regulations, drawing parallels between the Old Covenant practices and the New Covenant in Christ.

Revelation 8
Depicts the prayers of the saints as incense before God, connecting the symbolism of the altar of incense to the prayers of believers.