Numbers 4:5

Whenever the camp sets out, Aaron and his sons are to go in, take down the veil of the curtain, and cover the ark of the Testimony with it.

Study Bible

Whenever the camp sets out
This phrase indicates a time of transition and movement for the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "sets out" is "nasa," which means to pull up, set out, or journey. This reflects the nomadic lifestyle of the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. It signifies obedience to God's guidance, as the Israelites moved only when the cloud lifted from the tabernacle (Numbers 9:17). This movement is a reminder of the Christian journey, where believers are called to follow God's leading, trusting in His timing and direction.

Aaron and his sons
Aaron, the brother of Moses, and his sons were appointed as priests, a role of significant responsibility and honor. The priesthood was established by God to serve as mediators between Him and the people. This highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and the need for those who are consecrated to serve God faithfully. In a broader sense, it points to the priesthood of all believers in Christ, who are called to serve and intercede for others.

are to go in
The phrase "are to go in" suggests a deliberate and reverent approach to the sacred duties assigned to the priests. The Hebrew word "bo" implies entering with purpose and intention. This action underscores the holiness required in handling sacred objects and the reverence due to God's presence. It serves as a reminder for believers to approach God with humility and respect, recognizing the privilege of entering His presence through prayer and worship.

take down the veil of the curtain
The veil, or "paroketh" in Hebrew, was a significant element in the tabernacle, separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. Taking down the veil was a task that required careful attention, symbolizing the barrier between God and humanity due to sin. In the New Testament, the tearing of the temple veil at Christ's crucifixion (Matthew 27:51) signifies the removal of this barrier, granting believers direct access to God through Jesus.

and cover the Ark of the Testimony with it
The Ark of the Testimony, also known as the Ark of the Covenant, was the most sacred object in the tabernacle, representing God's covenant with Israel and His presence among them. Covering the Ark with the veil was an act of protection and reverence, ensuring that it was not seen by unauthorized eyes. This act symbolizes the holiness of God and the need for atonement and mediation, ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who is the true Ark, embodying God's presence and covenant with humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aaron
The brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel. He and his sons were responsible for the sacred duties of the Tabernacle.

2. Sons of Aaron
The descendants of Aaron who served as priests, assisting in the duties of the Tabernacle and later the Temple.

3. The Ark of the Testimony
Also known as the Ark of the Covenant, it was the most sacred object in the Tabernacle, representing God's presence and covenant with Israel.

4. The Veil of the Curtain
A significant part of the Tabernacle, separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, where the Ark was kept.

5. The Camp
Refers to the encampment of the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness, with the Tabernacle at the center.

Teaching Points

The Holiness of God
The careful handling of the Ark and the use of the veil underscore the holiness of God and the reverence required in approaching Him.

Priestly Responsibility
Aaron and his sons had specific duties, highlighting the importance of obedience and faithfulness in serving God.

Symbolism of the Veil
The veil represents separation due to sin, but also points to the future reconciliation through Christ.

God's Presence
The Ark symbolizes God's presence among His people, reminding us of His desire to dwell with us.

Order and Structure in Worship
The detailed instructions for moving the Tabernacle teach us about the importance of order and reverence in worship practices.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the role of Aaron and his sons in handling the Ark teach us about the nature of spiritual leadership today?

2. How does the veil in the Tabernacle relate to the concept of separation from God due to sin, and how is this resolved in the New Testament?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our worship practices today reflect the reverence and order demonstrated in the handling of the Tabernacle?

4. How does the tearing of the Temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion change our understanding of access to God?

5. What practical steps can we take to cultivate an awareness of God's presence in our daily lives, as symbolized by the Ark of the Testimony?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 26:31-33
Describes the construction of the veil and its purpose in the Tabernacle, emphasizing the separation between the Holy and Most Holy places.

Hebrews 9:3-5
Provides a New Testament perspective on the significance of the Ark and the veil, highlighting their symbolic meaning in the context of Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

Matthew 27:51
At the moment of Jesus' death, the veil of the Temple was torn, symbolizing the new access to God through Christ.