THE TERBANACLE

On Mount Sinai, God commanded Moses to have the Israelis construct a tabernacle, a sacred tent where they may worship. The Tabernacle could go wherever they went because it was portable.

God said, “Say to the people, Bring anything you can to assist construct the Tabernacle.” Gold, silver, copper, valuable stones, and jewelry were all presented by the Israelis. They contributed a wide variety of materials, including wool, linen, animal skins, and more. Even Moses had to tell them, “We have plenty,” because of their generosity. ‘Please don’t bring any more of those.’

The Tabernacle was constructed by a group of highly competent men and women. God equipped them with the requisite wisdom. Someone wove the fabric, embroidered the thread, or spun the thread. Some people carved wood, worked with gold, or placed stones.

The Tabernacle was constructed by the people according to God’s instructions. Beautiful curtains were crafted to divide the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place in the Tabernacle. The Ark of the Covenant, crafted from acacia wood and gold, was housed in the holiest of all.

A golden lampstand, a table, and an incense altar may be found in the Holy. Both a copper basin and a sizable altar could be found in the courtyard. The Israelites were constantly reminded by the presence of the ark of the covenant of their solemn vow to obey God. Can you define a covenant for me? This is a pledge unlike any other.

Aaron and his sons were the ones God picked to serve as priests in the Tabernacle. They were responsible for maintaining it and bringing sacrifices there for God. Nobody other than Aaron, the high priest, was ever allowed in there. He did this annually to atone for his own sins, the crimes of his household, and the sins of Israel as a whole.

One year after leaving Egypt, the Israelites completed the Tabernacle. They finally had a temple to dedicate to God.

Suddenly, a cloud appeared over the Tabernacle, and God’s splendor filled it. The Israelites didn’t move from their spot while the cloud covered the Tabernacle. As the mist finally dissipated, though, they knew it was time to leave. When the cloud appeared, they dismantled the tabernacle and went with it.