The term "Articles from the House of the LORD" refers to the sacred objects and furnishings used in the worship and service of Yahweh in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple in Jerusalem. These articles were crafted according to divine specifications given to Moses and later to Solomon, serving both functional and symbolic purposes in Israel's worship practices.

The Tabernacle Articles

1. The Ark of the Covenant: The most sacred article, the Ark was a gold-covered wooden chest containing the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna (Hebrews 9:4). It was housed in the Most Holy Place and symbolized God's covenant and presence with Israel. "There I will meet with you and speak with you from above the mercy seat" (Exodus 25:22).

2. The Table of Showbread: Made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, this table held the Bread of the Presence, which was replaced every Sabbath (Exodus 25:23-30). It symbolized God's provision and fellowship with His people.

3. The Golden Lampstand (Menorah): Crafted from a single piece of gold, the lampstand had seven branches and was kept burning continually in the Holy Place (Exodus 25:31-40). It represented the light of God and His guidance.

4. The Altar of Incense: Positioned before the veil separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, this altar was used for burning incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God (Exodus 30:1-10).

5. The Bronze Altar: Located in the Tabernacle courtyard, this altar was used for burnt offerings and sacrifices, signifying atonement and reconciliation with God (Exodus 27:1-8).

6. The Bronze Basin (Laver): Used by the priests for ceremonial washing, the basin was a symbol of purification and readiness to serve (Exodus 30:17-21).

The Temple Articles

When Solomon built the Temple, the articles from the Tabernacle were transferred and additional items were crafted:

1. The Brazen Sea: A large basin supported by twelve oxen, used by the priests for ritual washing (1 Kings 7:23-26).

2. The Golden Altar: Similar to the Tabernacle's altar of incense, it was used for burning incense in the Temple (1 Kings 7:48).

3. The Ten Lampstands: Solomon made ten lampstands of gold, five on the south side and five on the north, to illuminate the Holy Place (1 Kings 7:49).

4. The Tables of Showbread: Ten tables were made for the Temple, on which the Bread of the Presence was placed (2 Chronicles 4:8).

5. The Golden Utensils: Various utensils, including bowls, censers, and other items, were crafted for use in the Temple service (1 Kings 7:50).

Symbolism and Significance

The articles from the House of the LORD were not merely functional; they were rich in symbolism, pointing to deeper spiritual truths. They represented God's holiness, His covenant relationship with Israel, and the means by which His people could approach Him. The meticulous care in their construction and use underscored the reverence due to God and the sanctity of worship.

Throughout Israel's history, these articles were central to worship and were often targeted during times of conquest and apostasy. For instance, the Babylonians carried away many of these sacred items during the destruction of Jerusalem (2 Kings 25:13-17). Their eventual return and restoration were seen as a sign of God's faithfulness and the restoration of proper worship (Ezra 1:7-11).

In the New Testament, the articles of the Temple are seen as foreshadowing the work of Christ, who fulfills and transcends the Old Covenant symbols, offering believers direct access to God through His atoning sacrifice.