Exodus 26-28
What I Noticed Today (Exodus 26-28)
Exodus 26
In Chapter 26, God gives Moses incredibly detailed instructions for the construction of the tabernacle:
- The tabernacle itself was composed of four layers: fine linen, woven goat hair, leather from ram skins, and another layer of leather.
Note: The type of leather in the fourth layer is not certain. The Hebrew word is similar to an Egyptian word for a marine mammal similar to a manatee.
- The tabernacle measured 15’ by 45’ and was surrounded by a large courtyard.
- The opening of the tabernacle was always to be positioned, so it faced toward the east.
- Two curtains were made: one separated the interior space of the tabernacle, and the other curtain was placed at the entrance of the tabernacle. The interior curtain separated the Holy of Holies, where the ark and the mercy seat were placed.
Exodus 27
In Chapter 27, God gives Moses instructions for the construction of the altar for burnt offerings, the tabernacle courtyard, and the preparation of oil for the lampstand:
- The altar of burnt offering (also referred to as the bronze altar) was to be square, made of acacia wood overlaid with bronze, and placed in the courtyard in front of the tabernacle.
- Rings were to be installed on the corners to accept acacia wood poles. The poles were used to carry the altar.
- The courtyard surrounding the tabernacle measured 150’ by 75’ and 7.5’ high. It was made of linen curtains supported by wooden frames set in bronze bases.
Note: The courtyard height kept the curious from looking in, but was only half the height of the tabernacle so people could still see the tabernacle from outside the courtyard.
- Oil for the lampstand (Exodus 25:31-39) was made of pressed olives.
- Aaron and his sons were to keep oil in the lamp so it would be lit from evening until morning every day.
- The lampstand was to be located inside the tabernacle outside the Holy of Holies.
Note: The table for the bread, the golden lampstand, and the bronze altar are all contained within the tabernacle. The bread is a reminder of our spiritual nourishment that comes from God. The lampstand was the only light inside the tabernacle. God is the light of our lives. The bronze altar where sacrifices were made as needed to atone for sin before coming near to God.
Note: As with the scene at Mt. Sinai, there is a distinct separation among the people regarding the tabernacle (ch. 27). The people were kept outside. Levites were allowed inside the courtyard area, and only priests were allowed inside the Holy of Holies.
Exodus 28
In Chapter 28, God gives Moses detailed instructions for the priest’s garments and the priest’s consecration to serve God. The purpose of the priesthood is to serve God (28:1). God equips the priests for their service with the garments and sets them apart by consecrating them.
- God instructs Moses to call together Aaron and his sons Nadab, Abihu, Eleazer, and Ithamar to serve God as priests.
- God instructs Moses to have their priestly garments (a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a tunic, a turban, and a sash) made by skilled craftsmen.
- The garments were to be made out of gold; blue, purple, and scarlet yarn; and fine linen.
- The ephod was made of linen with a front and back attached over the shoulders by two straps. The shoulder straps were mounted with onyx stones bearing the names of the tribes. It was held together at the waist by a belt.
- The breastpiece was made of linen 9 inches wide with four rows of three precious stones each. Each of the stones was engraved with the name of one of the twelve tribes. It was attached over the ephod with four gold chains and tied to the waist with a blue cord to the waistband of the ephod.
- Urim and Thummim were to be carried inside the breastpiece and used for making a decision before the Lord.
Note: The meaning of Urim and Thummim is obscure, but scholars believe Urim means “light,” and Thummim means “perfection.” Where they were to be acquired or how they worked is unknown.
- The robe worn under the ephod was to be made of blue yarn. It was to be sleeveless and hang below the knees.
- Pomegranates made of yarn and gold bells were attached to the hem all the way around the robe.
- The robe is to be worn whenever Aaron ministers before the Lord. Ignoring these instructions would result in death.
- A medallion of pure gold was to be made and engraved with “Holy to the Lord.” The medallion was to be fastened to the front of the turban over Aaron’s forehead. It allowed Aaron to bear the guilt for the offerings placed before the Lord.
- The tunic and turban were to be made of fine linen. An embroidered sash was to be made.
- Once all these garments were made, they were to be worn by Aaron and his sons. Aaron and his sons were to be anointed, ordained, and consecrated so they can serve the Lord as priests.
- Linen undergarments were also to be made covering from the waist to the thighs and must be worn whenever they minister before the Lord.
Note: The priests were anointed, ordained, and consecrated. The anointing was of oil. The ordination was complete with the priest's clothing. The consecration came from the blood sacrifice of a bull and two rams. Only then were they ready to serve God (28:41).
Some thoughts for further consideration:
- As believers, we are priests, set apart, and consecrated to serve God and do His work. To do that, we need to be attentive to God’s Word, to faithfully do the work He has called us to, and be careful in our walk as we serve Him!
What did you notice in your study today? Feel free to visit the website and leave a question or a comment.
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Tomorrow: Exodus 29-31
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