Topical Bible: Tabernacle: Pitched: At Gibeon

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The Tabernacle, a central place of worship for the Israelites, was a portable earthly dwelling place of God among the people of Israel as they journeyed through the wilderness. After the conquest of Canaan, the Tabernacle found a more permanent location at Gibeon during the time of King David and Solomon.

Historical Context

Gibeon was a significant city in the tribal territory of Benjamin, known for its strategic location and historical events, such as the famous battle where the sun stood still (Joshua 10:12-14). The Tabernacle's presence at Gibeon is noted during the transitional period between the judges and the establishment of the monarchy in Israel.

Biblical References

The Tabernacle's relocation to Gibeon is mentioned in several passages. In 1 Chronicles 16:39-40 , it is recorded: "David left Zadok the priest and his fellow priests before the tabernacle of the LORD at the high place in Gibeon to offer burnt offerings to the LORD on the altar of burnt offering regularly, morning and evening, according to all that is written in the Law of the LORD, which He had commanded Israel."

Furthermore, 1 Chronicles 21:29 states, "The tabernacle of the LORD, which Moses had made in the wilderness, and the altar of burnt offering were at that time on the high place at Gibeon."

Significance in Worship

The Tabernacle at Gibeon served as the central place of worship and sacrifice before the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. It was here that the Israelites continued to offer sacrifices and seek the Lord's guidance. The presence of the Tabernacle at Gibeon underscores the continuity of worship practices established during the wilderness period, even as the nation transitioned to a more settled existence in the Promised Land.

Solomon's Encounter

One of the most notable events associated with the Tabernacle at Gibeon is Solomon's encounter with God. In 1 Kings 3:4-5 , it is recorded: "The king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for it was the great high place. Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings on that altar. At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night, and God said, 'Ask what you wish Me to give you.'"

This encounter highlights the Tabernacle's role as a place where God communicated with His chosen leaders, offering guidance and wisdom. Solomon's request for wisdom, granted by God, set the stage for his renowned reign and the eventual construction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

Transition to the Temple

The Tabernacle's presence at Gibeon marked the final phase of its use as the primary center of worship before the establishment of the Temple. With the completion of the Temple in Jerusalem, the focus of Israelite worship shifted, fulfilling God's promise of a permanent dwelling place for His name. The Tabernacle's history at Gibeon thus represents a pivotal moment in the religious life of Israel, bridging the era of the judges and the monarchy.

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1 Chronicles 21:29
For the tabernacle of the LORD, which Moses made in the wilderness, and the altar of the burnt offering, were at that season in the high place at Gibeon.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

How Joshua, the Commander of the Hebrews, Made War with The
... them; then went the Levites bearing the tabernacle and the ... 11. Now the place where
Joshua pitched his camp was called ... were sent by the people of Gibeon, and of ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 1 how joshua the.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Properly speaking, there were no pitched battles between them ... the powerful confederation
of which Gibeon was the head ... who "served at the door of" the tabernacle. ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm