Exodus 40:22

Moses placed the table in the Tent of Meeting on the north side of the tabernacle, outside the veil.

Study Bible

Moses placed
The act of Moses placing the table signifies obedience and precision in following God's instructions. The Hebrew root for "placed" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to give, put, or set. This action reflects Moses' role as a faithful servant and leader, ensuring that every detail of the tabernacle's setup aligns with divine command. It underscores the importance of obedience in worship and leadership, reminding believers that God values our attention to His instructions.

the table
The table referred to here is the Table of Showbread, a significant piece of furniture in the tabernacle. In Hebrew, it is "שֻׁלְחָן" (shulchan). This table held the bread of the Presence, symbolizing God's provision and fellowship with His people. Historically, the table represents sustenance and communion, pointing to the spiritual nourishment found in God's presence. It foreshadows the New Testament understanding of Christ as the Bread of Life, offering eternal sustenance to believers.

in the Tent of Meeting
The Tent of Meeting, or "אֹהֶל מוֹעֵד" (ohel mo'ed) in Hebrew, was the sacred space where God met with Moses and the Israelites. It signifies a place of divine encounter and revelation. The Tent of Meeting serves as a precursor to the temple and, ultimately, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers. It highlights the theme of God's desire to dwell among His people and the importance of creating sacred spaces for communion with Him.

on the north side
The specific placement of the table on the north side of the tabernacle is not arbitrary. In ancient Near Eastern culture, directions held symbolic meanings. The north side, associated with mystery and hiddenness, may suggest the divine mystery of God's provision and presence. This detail emphasizes the order and intentionality in God's design for worship, encouraging believers to seek understanding and reverence in their approach to God.

of the tabernacle
The tabernacle, or "מִשְׁכָּן" (mishkan) in Hebrew, was the portable dwelling place of God among the Israelites. It represents God's desire to be present with His people during their journey through the wilderness. The tabernacle's intricate design and function point to the holiness and majesty of God, serving as a constant reminder of His covenant and faithfulness. It foreshadows the ultimate tabernacle, Jesus Christ, who "tabernacled" among us (John 1:14).

outside the veil
The veil, or "פָּרֹכֶת" (paroket) in Hebrew, separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place within the tabernacle. It symbolizes the barrier between a holy God and sinful humanity. The placement of the table outside the veil indicates access to God's provision and presence, yet also the separation that existed before Christ's atoning work. In the New Testament, the tearing of the veil at Christ's crucifixion (Matthew 27:51) signifies the removal of this barrier, granting believers direct access to God through Jesus.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and to guide them through the wilderness. Moses is responsible for setting up the tabernacle according to God's instructions.

2. The Table
This refers to the Table of Showbread, which was placed in the Holy Place of the tabernacle. It held the bread of the Presence, symbolizing God's provision and fellowship with His people.

3. Tent of Meeting
Also known as the tabernacle, it was the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites. It was a sacred space where God met with Moses and the priests.

4. North Side of the Tabernacle
The specific location within the Holy Place where the Table of Showbread was placed. The north side was significant in the layout of the tabernacle, reflecting order and divine instruction.

5. The Veil
A curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies) in the tabernacle. It symbolized the separation between God and humanity due to sin.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Divine Instructions
Moses' careful placement of the table as instructed by God highlights the importance of obedience in our walk with God. We are called to follow His commands with precision and reverence.

God's Provision and Presence
The Table of Showbread symbolizes God's continual provision and desire for fellowship with His people. In our lives, we can trust in God's provision and seek His presence daily.

The Significance of Sacred Spaces
The tabernacle was a sacred space where God met with His people. Today, we can create sacred spaces in our hearts and homes where we intentionally seek God's presence.

Separation and Access
The veil in the tabernacle represented separation due to sin, but through Christ, we have direct access to God. This encourages us to approach God with confidence and gratitude.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' obedience in setting up the tabernacle challenge us in our own obedience to God's instructions today?

2. In what ways can we create "sacred spaces" in our daily lives to meet with God, similar to the Tent of Meeting?

3. How does the symbolism of the Table of Showbread as God's provision encourage us to trust in His provision in our current circumstances?

4. What does the veil in the tabernacle teach us about the separation caused by sin, and how does this relate to the access we have through Jesus Christ?

5. How can understanding the layout and significance of the tabernacle enhance our appreciation for the work of Christ as described in the book of Hebrews?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 24:5-9
This passage provides further instructions on the preparation and placement of the showbread on the table, emphasizing the ongoing covenant relationship between God and Israel.

Hebrews 9:2
This New Testament reference describes the layout of the tabernacle, including the placement of the table, highlighting its significance in the worship practices of Israel.

John 6:35
Jesus refers to Himself as the "bread of life," drawing a spiritual connection to the showbread as a symbol of God's provision and presence.