The instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings are detailed in the Book of Exodus, primarily in chapters 25 through 31 and 35 through 40. These passages describe the divine blueprint given to Moses on Mount Sinai, which served as the earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The Tabernacle, also known as the Tent of Meeting, was a portable sanctuary that symbolized God's presence and covenant with His people.

The Ark of the Covenant

The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object within the Tabernacle, representing God's throne on earth. According to Exodus 25:10-22, the Ark was to be constructed of acacia wood, overlaid with pure gold inside and out. It measured two and a half cubits long, one and a half cubits wide, and one and a half cubits high. The Ark contained the Testimony, the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments. A gold cover, known as the Mercy Seat, was placed on top, with two cherubim of hammered gold at each end. The Lord promised to meet with Moses and speak from above the Mercy Seat between the cherubim.

The Table of Showbread

The Table of Showbread, described in Exodus 25:23-30, was also made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. It measured two cubits long, one cubit wide, and one and a half cubits high. The table held the Bread of the Presence, which consisted of twelve loaves representing the twelve tribes of Israel. These loaves were to be set before the Lord continually, signifying God's provision and fellowship with His people.

The Golden Lampstand

The Golden Lampstand, or Menorah, is detailed in Exodus 25:31-40. It was crafted from a single piece of pure gold, featuring a central shaft with six branches, three on each side. The lampstand was adorned with almond blossoms, buds, and flowers, symbolizing life and light. It held seven lamps, which were to be kept burning continually, representing the perpetual light of God's presence and guidance.

The Altar of Incense

The Altar of Incense, as described in Exodus 30:1-10, was made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. It was a cubit square and two cubits high, with horns on each corner. Positioned before the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, the altar was used for burning fragrant incense every morning and evening. The incense symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to God.

The Bronze Altar

The Bronze Altar, detailed in Exodus 27:1-8, was used for burnt offerings and sacrifices. Constructed of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, it measured five cubits square and three cubits high. The altar had horns on each corner and was equipped with bronze utensils for handling the offerings. It was placed in the courtyard of the Tabernacle, signifying the need for atonement and purification before approaching God.

The Bronze Basin

The Bronze Basin, described in Exodus 30:17-21, was used by the priests for ceremonial washing. Made of bronze, it was placed between the Tent of Meeting and the altar. The priests were required to wash their hands and feet before ministering at the altar or entering the Tent of Meeting, emphasizing the importance of purity and holiness in service to God.

The Tabernacle Structure

The Tabernacle itself was a tent-like structure, as outlined in Exodus 26. It consisted of a framework of acacia wood overlaid with gold, with curtains of fine linen and goat hair forming the walls and roof. The interior was divided into two sections: the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies). The Holy Place housed the Table of Showbread, the Golden Lampstand, and the Altar of Incense. The Most Holy Place contained the Ark of the Covenant, separated by a veil.

The Courtyard

The Tabernacle was surrounded by a courtyard, as described in Exodus 27:9-19. The courtyard was enclosed by linen curtains supported by bronze pillars. It measured 100 cubits long and 50 cubits wide. The entrance was on the east side, symbolizing the approach to God from the direction of the rising sun. The courtyard contained the Bronze Altar and the Bronze Basin, serving as the area for sacrifices and purification.

These detailed instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings underscore the holiness and orderliness of God, as well as His desire to dwell among His people. The Tabernacle served as a foreshadowing of the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity through Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and the prophets.