The Tabernacle Of Moses

• The Tabernacle

o In Exodus 33:7, Moses took the tabernacle and pitched it outside the camp, signifying a separation from the people due to their unworthiness. This tabernacle, also known as the “Tent of Meeting,” became a sacred space where individuals could seek the Lord. Placing it outside the camp symbolized a critical turning point in the relationship between Israel and God, emphasizing the need for holiness and a designated place for communion with Him. This paper introduces the Tabernacle, explains its function, and provides scriptural references for those who desire deeper study.

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• How Large Was the Tabernacle?

o The most sacred area of the Tabernacle was the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies), which measured 15 feet by 15 feet. It housed the Ark of the Covenant, containing the two stone tablets upon which God wrote the Ten Commandments, a jar of manna, and Aaron’s budding staff.

o Extending eastward from the Most Holy Place, and separated by a veil, was the Holy Place. It was the same width (15 feet) but twice the length (30 feet). The Holy Place contained the Altar of Incense, the Lampstand, and the Table of Showbread.

o Together, the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place measured 15 feet wide and 45 feet long. Surrounding the Tabernacle was the Outer Courtyard, which measured 75 feet wide and 150 feet long and was enclosed by a linen fence.

o Located in the Outer Courtyard, facing the entrance of the Tabernacle from the east, stood the Altar of Burnt Offering, where animal sacrifices were offered to the LORD (Exodus 25:1–27:21). Behind the altar was the laver, where priests washed before ministering. Tables and stands were arranged throughout the courtyard for the preparation of sacrifices.

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• The Workers

o The Kohanim and Levites were distinct groups within the Israelite community, each with their own set of responsibilities and privileges. At the time of Moses, the Kohanim were the descendants of Aaron, the High Priest, and were responsible for the sacred duties in the Tabernacle. They offered sacrifices, maintained the sanctity of the sanctuary, and acted as mediators between the people and God. The Levites, on the other hand, were the descendants of Levi, the third son of Jacob, and while not serving as priests, played a crucial role in supporting the priestly ministry and the broader religious life of Israel. They were assigned to various roles within the community, including caretakers of the Tabernacle, the sacred tent, and the grounds of the Tabernacle. They also served as musicians and teachers.

• The High Priest

o Only the High Priest was permitted to enter the Most Holy Place on the Day of Atonement and was responsible for making atonement for the nation.

o According to Exodus 28:1–2 and 29:4, God appointed Aaron as the first High Priest. After Aaron’s death, the High Priesthood was passed exclusively to his descendants. The High Priest wore distinctive garments and alone was permitted to enter the Holy of Holies to sprinkle blood on the mercy seat on the Day of Atonement.

o Traditionally, the High Priest’s son—if found to be pious—would inherit the role. If no suitable son existed, the Sanhedrin or the king would appoint the most qualified individual based on spiritual merit.

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• The Altar

o The altar held immense theological and liturgical significance. It was the central place of sacrifice, symbolizing the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Its design was divinely revealed to Moses on Mount Sinai as part of God’s detailed instructions for constructing the Tabernacle as His dwelling among the people.

o The bronze altar, also called the Altar of Burnt Offering, symbolized judgment for sin. It measured approximately 7.5 feet square and 4.5 feet high and featured four horns, representing strength, help, and refuge. A grated base allowed ashes to fall through, and rings with poles enabled the altar to be transported during Israel’s wilderness journey.

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• History of Sacrifices

o Sacrifices appear throughout biblical history. Cain and Abel brought offerings to God—Cain from the produce of the ground and Abel from the firstborn of his flock. Noah offered sacrifices after leaving the Ark, and Abraham offered a ram in place of Isaac at Mount Moriah.

o During Israel’s 40 years in the wilderness (1313–1273 BCE), sacrifices were a central priestly duty. After entering the Promised Land, the Tabernacle stood at Gilgal for 14 years (until 1259 BCE), then at Shiloh for 369 years (1259–891 BCE). Later, sacrifices continued in the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem, which stood for 410 years (833–423 BCE) and 420 years (353 BCE–69 CE), respectively.

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• Tabernacle Sacrifices

o Large portions of Scripture—especially Leviticus—are devoted to sacrificial laws. Two lambs were offered daily. Additional animals depended on the type of offering, the severity of the sin, the occasion, and the wealth of the individual. Special sacrifices were also offered on holy days such as Sukkot and the Day of Atonement.