KEY TABERNACLE PIECES

KEY TABERNACLE PIECES

Exodus 37:1-29

Ark of the Covenant

Function and Significance:

A golden rectangular box that contained the Ten Commandments

Symbolized God's covenant with Israel's people

Located in the Most Holy Place

Mercy Seat

Function and Significance:

The lid to the ark of the covenant

Symbolized the presence of God among his people

Veil

Function and Significance:

The curtain that divided the two sacred rooms of the tabernacle—the holy place and the Most Holy Place

Symbolized how the people were separated from God because of sin

Table of Showbread

Function and Significance:

A wooden table located in the holy place of the tabernacle. The showbread and various utensils were kept on this table

Showbread

Function and Significance:

Twelve loaves of baked bread, one for each tribe of Israel

Symbolized the spiritual nourishment God offers his people

Lampstands and Lamps

Function and Significance:

A golden lampstand located in the holy place, which held seven burning oil lamps

The lampstand lit the holy place for the priests

Altar of Incense

Function and Significance:

An altar in the holy place in front of the veil

Used for burning God's special incense and symbolic of acceptable prayer

Anointing Oil 

Function and Significance:

A special oil used to anoint the priests and all the pieces in the tabernacle

A sign of being set apart for God

Altar of Burnt Offering

Function and Significance:

The bronze altar outside the tabernacle used for the sacrifices

Symbolized how sacrifice restored one's relationship with God

Laver

Function and Significance:

A large bronze laver outside the tabernacle used by the priests to cleanse themselves before performing their duties

Symbolized the need for spiritual cleansing