Topical Bible: Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant of the Testimony

◄ Ark: in the Tabernacle--Called the Ark of the Covenant of the Testimony ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Ark of the Covenant, also known as the Ark of the Testimony, holds a central place in the religious life of ancient Israel as described in the Hebrew Scriptures. It is a sacred chest that was constructed according to divine instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai. The Ark served as the physical manifestation of God's presence among His people and was housed in the innermost part of the Tabernacle, the Holy of Holies.

Construction and Description

The Ark was crafted from acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold, both inside and out. It measured approximately 2.5 cubits in length, 1.5 cubits in width, and 1.5 cubits in height (Exodus 25:10). The Ark featured a gold molding around it and was equipped with four gold rings, two on each side, through which poles made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold were inserted for carrying (Exodus 25:12-15). These poles were to remain in the rings of the Ark and were never to be removed, signifying the Ark's readiness for transport as the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness.

The Mercy Seat and Cherubim

The cover of the Ark, known as the Mercy Seat, was made of pure gold. Two cherubim, also crafted from gold, were positioned at each end of the Mercy Seat, facing each other with their wings spread upward, overshadowing the cover (Exodus 25:17-20). The Mercy Seat served as the place where God would meet with Moses and communicate His commandments to the Israelites (Exodus 25:22).

Contents of the Ark

The Ark of the Covenant contained the two stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments, which were given to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25:16). These tablets represented the covenant between God and the people of Israel. According to Hebrews 9:4, the Ark also held Aaron's rod that budded and a golden jar containing manna, though these items are not mentioned in the original account in Exodus.

Significance and Role

The Ark of the Covenant was the most sacred object in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. It symbolized God's covenant with Israel and His divine presence. The Ark played a crucial role during significant events in Israel's history. It was carried by the Levites during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and led the procession as they crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land (Joshua 3:3-17). The Ark was also instrumental in the fall of Jericho, as it was carried around the city for seven days before the walls collapsed (Joshua 6:4-20).

The Ark in the Temple

King Solomon eventually placed the Ark in the Holy of Holies within the Temple in Jerusalem, which he built as a permanent dwelling place for the Lord (1 Kings 8:6). During the dedication of the Temple, the Ark was brought into the inner sanctuary, and the glory of the Lord filled the house (1 Kings 8:10-11).

Theological Implications

The Ark of the Covenant is a profound symbol of God's holiness, justice, and mercy. It underscores the importance of obedience to God's law and the centrality of His presence in the life of His people. The Ark's role in the Tabernacle and Temple worship highlights the necessity of atonement and the means by which God provided a way for His people to approach Him.

Biblical References

· Exodus 25:10-22
· Exodus 37:1-9
· Numbers 10:33-36
· Joshua 3:3-17
· Joshua 6:4-20
· 1 Kings 8:6-11
· Hebrews 9:4

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Exodus 30:6
And you shall put it before the veil that is by the ark of the testimony, before the mercy seat that is over the testimony, where I will meet with you.
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