Exodus 40:5

Place the gold altar of incense in front of the ark of the Testimony, and hang the curtain at the entrance to the tabernacle.

Study Bible

Place the gold altar of incense
The gold altar of incense was a small altar located in the Holy Place of the tabernacle, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God. The use of gold signifies purity and divinity, reflecting the holiness required in worship. Incense was a common element in ancient Near Eastern religious practices, but in Israel, it was specifically prescribed by God, emphasizing the distinctiveness of Israelite worship. The altar's placement and use foreshadow Christ's role as our intercessor, as seen in Hebrews 7:25, where Jesus continually intercedes for believers.

in front of the ark of the Testimony
The ark of the Testimony, also known as the Ark of the Covenant, was the most sacred object in the tabernacle, containing the tablets of the Law. Its presence signified God's covenant with Israel and His dwelling among His people. The altar of incense being placed in front of the ark highlights the importance of prayer and intercession in maintaining the covenant relationship. This positioning also points to the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, which was torn at Christ's crucifixion (Matthew 27:51), symbolizing direct access to God through Jesus.

and hang the curtain at the entrance to the tabernacle
The curtain, or veil, at the entrance of the tabernacle served as a barrier between the sacred space and the outside world, emphasizing the holiness of God and the need for separation from sin. This curtain was part of a series of veils that marked increasing levels of sanctity within the tabernacle structure. The tabernacle itself was a portable sanctuary, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle of the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The curtain's function and symbolism are fulfilled in Christ, who is described as the "new and living way" through the veil (Hebrews 10:20), granting believers access to the presence of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people out of Egypt and to receive the Law, including the instructions for the tabernacle.

2. The Tabernacle
A portable earthly dwelling place for God among the Israelites, designed according to divine specifications given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

3. The Ark of the Testimony
Also known as the Ark of the Covenant, it is a sacred chest that housed the tablets of the Law, representing God's covenant with Israel.

4. The Gold Altar of Incense
A small altar placed in the Holy Place of the tabernacle, used for burning incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God.

5. The Curtain (Veil)
A significant barrier separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, symbolizing the separation between God and humanity due to sin.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Obedience
Moses followed God's instructions precisely, highlighting the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

Symbolism of the Incense
The altar of incense represents the prayers of believers. We are encouraged to maintain a life of prayer, knowing it is a pleasing aroma to God.

Access to God
The curtain symbolizes the separation caused by sin, but through Christ, we have direct access to God. This should encourage us to approach God with confidence.

Holiness and Reverence
The careful placement of each item in the tabernacle teaches us about the holiness of God and the reverence we should have in worship.

Christ as the Fulfillment
The tabernacle and its elements point to Christ, who fulfills the law and the prophets, providing a complete and perfect way to God.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways does the tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' death change our understanding of access to God?

3. How can we apply the principle of obedience seen in Moses' actions to our daily lives?

4. What does the symbolism of the incense teach us about the nature and importance of prayer in our spiritual lives?

5. How does understanding the tabernacle's layout and function enhance our appreciation of Christ's role as our High Priest?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 9
This chapter discusses the layout and significance of the tabernacle, including the role of the altar of incense and the veil, drawing parallels to Christ's work as our High Priest.

Revelation 8:3-4
These verses describe the incense as representing the prayers of the saints, connecting the Old Testament practice to New Testament worship.

Matthew 27:51
The tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion signifies the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, fulfilling the symbolism of the tabernacle veil.