Have you ever wondered what all the furniture in the tabernacle symbolizes? It’s not just random pieces of wood and metal thrown together to make a tent. Each item has a significant meaning and purpose behind it. From the Ark of the Covenant to the Table of Showbread, we can learn a lot from examining the furniture inside the tabernacle.
The tabernacle was a portable temple used by the Israelites in the wilderness. It served as a place for them to worship God and make sacrifices. The furniture inside was carefully crafted and arranged to represent different aspects of their faith. For example, the Ark of the Covenant was seen as the dwelling place of God’s presence. The table of showbread represented fellowship with God and the need for daily sustenance from Him. These pieces of furniture were not just functional, but they had a spiritual significance that was intended to deepen the Israelites’ understanding of God’s character.
Whether you’re a believer or not, studying the symbolism of the furnitures in the tabernacle can give you a better understanding of the history and culture of the ancient Israelites. It can also offer a greater appreciation for the complexities of their faith. So, let’s dive in and explore what these different pieces represent and what we can learn from them.
Symbolism behind the Ark of the Covenant
The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred chest made of gold-plated wood and carried two stone tablets bearing the Ten Commandments. It was the most important furniture piece in the Tabernacle and symbolized the presence of God among His people. The Ark represented the holiness and power of God and was a visible reminder of His covenant with Israel.
- God’s Presence: The Ark was the place where God chose to dwell among His people. The mercy seat on top of the Ark was the place where God’s glory appeared. The presence of God was so strong that only the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies where the Ark was kept, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement.
- Divine Protection: The Ark was a symbol of God’s divine protection and guidance. When Israel was in the wilderness, the Ark led them to their promised land. It was a reminder that God was with them, protecting and guiding them along the way.
- Covenant Relationship: The Ark was also a symbol of God’s covenant relationship with His people. It held the stone tablets with the Ten Commandments, which represented the covenant agreement that God made with the Israelites. The Ark was a reminder that God’s promises were true, and He would remain faithful to His people as long as they remained faithful to Him.
The symbolism behind the Ark of the Covenant is profound and serves as a beautiful reminder of God’s presence, protection, and covenant relationship with His people. Its intricate details and design illustrate the significance of this sacred piece of furniture in the Tabernacle.
Significance of the Altar of Incense
The Altar of Incense was a piece of furniture located in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle, just outside the Holy of Holies. It was a small, gold-plated table on which incense was burned daily. The sweet-smelling smoke that rose from the altar symbolized the prayers of God’s people rising to Him.
- The Altar of Incense was a direct representation of the prayers of the people, being offered up to God in the form of smoke from the incense. It also symbolized the people’s desire for a relationship with God, because the incense was burned in the morning and the evening, signifying the ongoing nature of that desire.
- The Altar of Incense was also significant in that it reminded the Israelites of the importance of prayer and deepened their understanding of its powerful influence in their lives. Regular prayer was considered essential to maintaining a close and meaningful relationship with God and was seen as an act of faith that demonstrated trust in His power.
- In the context of the Tabernacle, the Altar of Incense also served as a reminder of the closeness of God and His willingness to dwell among His people. The proximity of the altar to the Holy of Holies, where His presence was believed to reside, conveyed the idea that God was accessible to all who sought Him.
The Altar of Incense was also important because of the materials from which it was made. It was constructed of acacia wood, a wood that is known for its strength and durability. The gold overlay symbolized the purity and power of God, while the four horns on the altar represented strength and stability.
The Altar of Incense was a powerful symbol of the connection between God and His people, and it reminded the Israelites of the importance of prayer and their ongoing desire for a relationship with their Creator. Its placement in the Holy Place, so close to the Holy of Holies, also served as a reminder of the accessibility of God and His willingness to dwell among His people.
Meaning of the Mercy Seat
The Mercy Seat is considered as one of the most essential and symbolic pieces of furniture in the Tabernacle. It is located at the top of the Ark of the Covenant, which is an emblem of God’s presence in the Israelites’ camp.
The Mercy Seat is a solid gold covering that measures 2.5 cubits long and 1.5 cubits wide. It has two cherubim, which are two angel-like figures that face each other and overlook the cover. According to the Bible, God spoke to Moses from between the cherubim on the Mercy Seat (Exodus 25:22).
Symbolism of the Mercy Seat
- The Mercy Seat represents the throne of God’s mercy and grace. It symbolizes his willingness to forgive and reconcile with the Israelites despite their sins and shortcomings.
- The cherubim on the Mercy Seat are believed to be symbols of God’s perfect justice and righteousness. They remind the Israelites that God’s mercy is not a license to sin, but a way to obtain forgiveness and restoration.
- The gold material of the Mercy Seat highlights the holiness and perfect nature of God. It signifies his royalty and glory, which is above all things in heaven and on earth.
The Function of the Mercy Seat
The Mercy Seat is where the High Priest was required to sprinkle the blood of a sacrificial animal on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16). This ritual was a yearly reminder of the Israelites’ sins and the need for forgiveness and atonement. The blood symbolized the payment for sin and served as a temporary covering until the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Moreover, the Mercy Seat was a physical representation of God’s mercy and grace that the Israelites experienced when they entered and worshiped in the Tabernacle. It reminded them of their allegiance to God and their dependence on his mercy and forgiveness.
| Symbolism of the Mercy Seat | Function of the Mercy Seat |
|---|---|
| Throne of God’s mercy and grace | Place of the blood of atonement |
| Cherubim as symbols of God’s perfect justice and righteousness | Physical representation of God’s mercy and grace |
| Gold highlights the holiness and perfect nature of God | Reminder of allegiance to God and dependence on his mercy and forgiveness |
Overall, the Mercy Seat was a significant piece of furniture in the Tabernacle that symbolized God’s mercy and grace, his perfect justice and righteousness, and his holiness and glory. It reminded the Israelites of their need for atonement and forgiveness and their dependence on God’s mercy and forgiveness.
Purpose of the Table of Showbread
The furniture in the Tabernacle played a significant role in the worship of God. Each piece was designed to represent a different aspect of the relationship between God and His people. The Table of Showbread was one of the main components of the Holy Place, and it held a special significance in the religious practices of the Israelites.
The Table of Showbread was a simple table made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold. It was located on the right side of the Holy Place, across from the seven-branched candlestick. The Table held twelve loaves of bread, arranged in two rows of six. The bread was made out of fine flour and was replaced every week on the Sabbath day.
The number twelve in the Bible often represents completeness or wholeness. The twelve loaves represent the twelve tribes of Israel, and their placement on the Table signifies God’s provision for His people. The bread was a symbol of God’s faithfulness to feed and nourish His children.
The Table of Showbread was also known as the Table of Presence because it symbolized the presence of God among His people. The twelve loaves were a constant reminder that God was with them, and that He was providing for their needs. The bread was a symbol of God’s grace and mercy, and His desire to have a relationship with His people.
In addition to the loaves of bread, the Table of Showbread also held bowls, pitchers, and cups made out of gold. These objects were used to hold incense, oil, and wine. The incense was burned daily, and the oil and wine were poured out as offerings to God.
The purpose of the Table of Showbread was to remind the Israelites of God’s faithfulness, provision, and presence. It was a symbol of the covenant between God and His people, and it was a constant reminder of their duty to obey His commands and keep His covenant.
In conclusion, the Table of Showbread held significant meaning in the Tabernacle. It represented God’s provision, faithfulness, and presence among His people. The twelve loaves of bread represented the twelve tribes of Israel, and their placement on the Table signified God’s desire to have a relationship with His people. The Table of Showbread was a reminder of the covenant between God and His people, and it was a symbol of their duty to Him.
Interpretation of the Golden Lampstand
The Golden Lampstand, also known as the Menorah, was one of the significant pieces of furniture inside the Tabernacle. The Lampstand consisted of pure gold and was placed on the left-hand side of the Holy Place, opposite to the Table of Showbread.
- The Lampstand had seven branches, which signify the completeness and perfection of God’s work.
- The seven lamps on top of the branches represent the Holy Spirit of God.
- The Lampstand symbolizes the light of God that was provided in the Tabernacle and represents Jesus, who is the light of the world.
The Lampstand was made out of one talent of pure gold and was crafted by Bezalel, who was filled with the Spirit of God and given wisdom, knowledge, and skills to craft the Tabernacle’s furniture.
In Zechariah 4:1-14, the prophet’s vision concerning the Lampstand and the olive trees is a representation of the Holy Spirit’s empowerment. Zechariah saw the Lampstand shining brightly and the two olive trees on either side producing oil, which continually fed the Lampstand’s lamps. This vision represents the continual anointing of the Holy Spirit and God’s provision.
| Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Golden Lampstand | The Body of Christ |
| Seven Branches | Completeness and Perfection of God’s Work |
| Seven Lamps | The Holy Spirit of God |
| Olive Oil | The Anointing of the Holy Spirit |
The Golden Lampstand is a beautiful symbol that represents the light of God that shines in our lives. As we allow the Holy Spirit to work within us, we become a light to the world around us, and His light shines through us brightly.
Message of the Bronze Laver
The tabernacle in the wilderness was a place of divine worship where God provided salvation for His people. Every aspect of the tabernacle’s construction, including the furniture, had a symbolic meaning that represented God’s relationship with His people, and the way to approach Him. In this article, we will explore the symbolism of the Bronze Laver.
- The Bronze Laver was where the priests washed their hands and feet before entering the Holy Place (Exodus 30:19-20). This act signified the purification and cleansing that is necessary before approaching God.
- The Bronze Laver was made of bronze, which is a symbol of judgment, and it reminds us that all impurities must be removed before coming into the presence of the Holy God.
- The mirrors that were used to make the Bronze Laver were made from polished bronze. This symbolizes the need for introspection and self-examination. It is essential to recognize and confess our sins before being purified and made clean for God’s service.
The Bronze Laver was essential in the tabernacle worship and had many symbolic meanings. It was a visual representation of God’s cleansing power and the need for personal reflection and confession of sin. In the New Testament, Jesus spoke of washing His disciples’ feet, and this act of humility and service reminds us of the significance of spiritual cleansing and purity.
| Bronze Laver | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Bronze | Righteous judgment of impurity |
| Polished Bronze Mirrors | Introspection and self-examination |
| Water | Purification and cleansing |
Therefore, we can conclude that the Bronze Laver was a significant part of the tabernacle worship, and it reminds us of the critical role of purity and cleansing in our relationship with God. As we approach God with clean hearts, He is faithful to purify us, fill us with His Spirit, and empower us for His service.
Importance of the Veil separating the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place
As we dive deeper into what the furniture in the tabernacle symbolizes, it’s crucial to understand the significance of the veil separating the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place. The veil acted as a physical barrier separating the holiest space from the rest of the tabernacle. This separation was necessary to emphasize the holiness of God and remind the people of their sinfulness and unworthiness to approach God.
- The veil represented the separation between God and man. This separation was a result of sin and disobedience; therefore, the veil served as a reminder of man’s need for redemption and a way to restore fellowship with God.
- The veil reminded the Israelites of the Holy of Holies where God resided. It was a place where only the high priest could enter, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement.
- The veil’s placement symbolizes the separation between Heaven and Earth, emphasizing God’s transcendence over creation. It also represents the barrier between life and death and the promise of eternal life through faith in God.
One fascinating aspect of the veil is the material it was made of – blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine twined linen with cherubim embroidered on it (Exodus 26:31). These colors represent royalty, majesty, and divinity, respectively. The cherubim represented the heavenly hosts and symbolized the presence of God.
According to Jewish tradition, the veil was 40 cubits high, 20 cubits wide, and as thick as a man’s hand. This massive veil was not torn or moved until Jesus’ death on the cross, symbolizing the end of the separation between God and man. As Matthew 27:51 states, “And behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split.”
| Symbolism | Description |
|---|---|
| Separation | Dividing the holy from the common; God from man; sin from righteousness |
| Transcendence | Emphasizing God’s supremacy and omnipotence over all creation |
| Remembrance | Reminds the Israelites of their sinfulness and unworthiness to approach God and their need for redemption |
Overall, through the veil separating the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place, we can see that God is holy and transcendent, and man is sinful and in need of redemption. The veil’s symbolism reminds us of the vital role Jesus played in removing the barrier between God and man, allowing us to enjoy fellowship with Him.
Understanding of the Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant
As part of the holy furniture in the tabernacle, the Cherubim on the Ark of the Covenant serve as an important symbol for the Israelites. Here are some key insights into their significance:
Number 8: A Sign of Resurrection
- According to Jewish tradition, the number 8 represents new beginnings and resurrection.
- The Ark of the Covenant was covered with a lid known as the Mercy Seat.
- The Mercy Seat was held up by two Cherubim, with their wings covering the Mercy Seat.
- The Mercy Seat was considered the throne of God on earth, and only the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies to access it.
- On the Day of Atonement, the High Priest would sprinkle blood on the Mercy Seat to atone for the sins of the people.
- Through this ritual, the Israelites believed that they could be resurrected from their sins and reconciled with God.
- The number 8 symbolizes the hope of resurrection and new life, even in the face of death and sin.
In summary, the number 8 on the Cherubim of the Ark of the Covenant represented the hope of new beginnings and resurrection after atonement for sins. Its significance in Jewish tradition shows the importance of forgiveness, redemption, and reconciliation with God.
Representation of the Curtains in the Tabernacle
The curtains in the tabernacle were designed to represent different aspects of the presence and character of God, as well as the spiritual journey of the Israelites. The curtains were not merely functional items of furniture, but were highly symbolic. Each color, material, and design was carefully chosen to communicate a specific message.
The Number 9: Fruitfulness and the Holy Spirit
- The tabernacle curtains were made up of nine individual curtains, which were joined together to form one large covering. This number was significant, as 9 is often associated with fruitfulness and the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is often referred to as the “fruitful one” in the Bible, and nine is the highest single-digit number.
- The curtains were made from fine linen, which had been intricately woven with blue, purple, and scarlet threads. These colors were also symbolic, representing various aspects of God’s character and attributes.
- The number nine appeared elsewhere in the tabernacle as well. There were nine candlesticks in the holy place, and nine fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23.
The curtains represented the union of heaven and earth, and the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. The fine linen symbolized purity and righteousness, while the blue represented the heavenly realm. The purple represented royalty and authority, and the scarlet represented sacrifice and blood.
The joining together of the nine curtains represented the unity of the body of Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit to bring together believers from all walks of life. The Holy Spirit enables believers to bear fruit in their lives and to be fruitful in ministry. In essence, the curtains in the tabernacle symbolized the work of the Holy Spirit in drawing people to God and empowering them to live victorious lives.
| Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| White linen | Purity and righteousness |
| Blue | The heavenly realm |
| Purple | Royalty and authority |
| Scarlet | Sacrifice and blood |
The curtains in the tabernacle served as a visual reminder of God’s presence and power, and the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. They were a testament to the faithfulness of God, who had called his people out of slavery and into a place of worship and fellowship with him.
Significance of the Pillars holding up the Tabernacle Tent
The Tabernacle, as a sacred structure, holds great meaning and significance to the Jewish faith. Its construction and components contain symbolic representations of the people’s relationship with God, as well as foreshadowing of the coming of Christ. In particular, the pillars holding up the Tabernacle tent hold a significant meaning.
- They represent the strength and stability of God – just as the pillars are necessary to hold up the heavy tent, so too is God our support and foundation.
- There were 20 pillars in total, 10 on each side, representing the 10 tribes of Israel. This served as a reminder that God is with His people, and that they are united in their faith.
- The pillars were made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, which symbolizes the preciousness of God’s presence among His people. It also serves as a reminder that we are to always value and cherish our relationship with God.
Furthermore, the number 10 holds great significance in Jewish tradition, and this is reflected in the number of pillars holding up the Tabernacle tent.
According to Jewish numerology, the number 10 represents completeness and wholeness, as well as divine perfection. This can be seen in the 10 commandments given to Moses on Mount Sinai, as well as the 10 plagues sent by God to Egypt. Additionally, there were 10 generations from Adam to Noah, and 10 from Noah to Abraham.
| Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 20 pillars | Represent the 10 tribes of Israel, a reminder that God is with His people and that they are united in faith |
| Acacia wood overlaid with gold | Symbolic of the preciousness of God’s presence, as well as a reminder to value and cherish our relationship with God |
| 10 pillars on each side | Reflects the significance of the number 10 in Jewish tradition, symbolizing completeness, wholeness, and divine perfection |
The 10 pillars holding up the Tabernacle tent, therefore, represent God’s strength, His precious presence among His people, and the completeness and wholeness of the Jewish faith. They serve as a reminder of the importance of valuing and cherishing our relationship with God, and of the unity that exists among His people.
What Does the Furniture in the Tabernacle Symbolize?
1. What does the Ark of the Covenant symbolize?
The Ark of the Covenant symbolizes God’s presence. It was the holiest object in the tabernacle and held the Ten Commandments and other sacred items.
2. What does the Table of Showbread symbolize?
The Table of Showbread symbolizes fellowship with God and His provision. It held twelve loaves of bread, representing the twelve tribes of Israel.
3. What does the Golden Lampstand symbolize?
The Golden Lampstand symbolizes the light of God’s truth and guidance. It had seven branches, representing the seven spirits of God.
4. What does the Altar of Incense symbolize?
The Altar of Incense symbolizes the prayers of God’s people. It was a small altar located before the veil of the Most Holy Place.
5. What does the Bronze Laver symbolize?
The Bronze Laver symbolizes cleansing and purification. It was a large bronze basin used by the priests to cleanse themselves before entering the tabernacle.
6. What does the Bronze Altar symbolize?
The Bronze Altar symbolizes sacrifice and atonement. It was located in the courtyard and was used for offering burnt offerings and sin offerings.
7. What does the Veil symbolize?
The Veil symbolizes the separation between God and man. It separated the Most Holy Place from the Holy Place and was only entered by the High Priest once a year on the Day of Atonement.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you know what the furniture in the tabernacle symbolizes, it’s clear that every piece had a significant meaning. Each item was designed to help the Israelites understand God’s character and His desire for a relationship with them. The tabernacle was a physical representation of God’s presence among His people. Thank you for reading and be sure to come back for more articles about the Bible and its significance in our lives.