Tabernacle Construction

The Tabernacle, also known as the Tent of Meeting, was a portable sanctuary constructed by the Israelites during their wilderness journey after the Exodus from Egypt. The detailed instructions for its construction were given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, as recorded in the Book of Exodus. The Tabernacle served as the dwelling place of God among His people and was central to Israelite worship and sacrificial practices.

The construction of the Tabernacle required skilled craftsmanship, particularly in carpentry, as it involved the creation of a framework of acacia wood overlaid with gold. Exodus 25:8-9 states, "Then have them make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them. You must make the tabernacle and design all its furnishings according to the pattern I will show you."

Materials and Craftsmanship

The primary wood used in the construction of the Tabernacle was acacia, known for its durability and resistance to decay. The carpenters, under the leadership of Bezalel and Oholiab, were endowed with divine wisdom and skill to execute the intricate designs. Exodus 31:2-5 highlights this divine empowerment: "See, I have appointed by name Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in all kinds of craftsmanship, to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, to cut gemstones for settings, and to carve wood, so that he may be a master of every craft."

Furniture of the Tabernacle

The Tabernacle's furniture was crafted with precision and symbolic significance, each piece serving a specific purpose in the worship and sacrificial system.

1. The Ark of the Covenant: The most sacred piece, the Ark was made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold. It housed the tablets of the Ten Commandments. Exodus 25:10-11 describes its construction: "They are to construct an ark of acacia wood two and a half cubits long, a cubit and a half wide, and a cubit and a half high. Overlay it with pure gold both inside and out, and make a gold molding around it."

2. The Table of Showbread: Also made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, this table held the Bread of the Presence. Exodus 25:23-24 states, "You are also to make a table of acacia wood two cubits long, a cubit wide, and a cubit and a half high. Overlay it with pure gold and make a gold molding around it."

3. The Altar of Incense: This altar, used for burning incense, was similarly constructed of acacia wood and overlaid with gold. Exodus 30:1-3 provides the details: "You are also to make an altar of acacia wood for the burning of incense. It is to be square, a cubit long, a cubit wide, and two cubits high; its horns must be of one piece. Overlay with pure gold its top and all around its sides and horns, and make a gold molding around it."

4. The Lampstand (Menorah): Although not made of wood, the golden lampstand was an essential element, symbolizing the light of God. It was crafted from a single piece of pure gold, as described in Exodus 25:31 : "Then you are to make a lampstand of pure gold. The lampstand and its base and shaft are to be made of hammered gold, its cups, buds, and petals shall be of one piece."

5. The Altar of Burnt Offering: This larger altar, used for sacrifices, was made of acacia wood and overlaid with bronze, as detailed in Exodus 27:1-2 : "You are to construct the altar of acacia wood, five cubits long and five cubits wide; the altar is to be square, and three cubits high. Make a horn at each of the four corners, so that the horns and the altar are of one piece, and overlay the altar with bronze."

Symbolism and Significance

The carpentry involved in the Tabernacle and its furnishings was not merely functional but deeply symbolic. The use of acacia wood, overlaid with precious metals, signified the incorruptible nature and divine glory of God. Each piece of furniture pointed to aspects of God's covenant relationship with Israel, His holiness, and the means of atonement and worship. The meticulous craftsmanship reflected the reverence and obedience required in approaching a holy God, as well as the beauty and order inherent in His divine presence.Exodus 31:2-9
See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah:
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