The arrangement of the holy furnishings within the Tabernacle and later the Temple is a significant aspect of biblical worship, reflecting divine order and holiness. These furnishings were meticulously designed and placed according to God's specific instructions to Moses, as recorded in the Pentateuch, particularly in the books of Exodus and Leviticus.

The Tabernacle

The Tabernacle, also known as the Tent of Meeting, was the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wanderings in the wilderness. The arrangement of its furnishings was central to the worship and sacrificial system established by God.

1. The Ark of the Covenant: The most sacred of all furnishings, the Ark was placed in the Most Holy Place, or the Holy of Holies. It contained the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. The Ark was overshadowed by the cherubim on the mercy seat, symbolizing God's throne and His presence among His people. "Place the mercy seat on top of the ark, and put the Testimony that I will give you into the ark" (Exodus 25:21).

2. The Table of Showbread: Positioned in the Holy Place, the table held the Bread of the Presence, which was set before the Lord continually. This bread symbolized God's provision and covenant with Israel. "And you are to set the bread of the Presence on the table before Me at all times" (Exodus 25:30).

3. The Golden Lampstand (Menorah): Also located in the Holy Place, the lampstand provided light and was a symbol of God's guidance and the light of His truth. It was crafted with intricate designs of almond blossoms and cups. "Then make a lampstand of pure gold. The lampstand and its base and shaft are to be made of hammered metal; its cups, buds, and petals must be of one piece" (Exodus 25:31).

4. The Altar of Incense: Situated before the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, the altar of incense was used for burning fragrant incense, symbolizing the prayers of the people ascending to God. "Put the altar in front of the veil that is before the ark of the Testimony—before the mercy seat that is over the Testimony—where I will meet with you" (Exodus 30:6).

5. The Bronze Altar: Located in the courtyard of the Tabernacle, this altar was used for burnt offerings and sacrifices. It was the first piece of furniture encountered upon entering the Tabernacle, signifying the necessity of atonement before approaching God. "Make a bronze altar for burnt offerings, a square five cubits long, five cubits wide, and three cubits high" (Exodus 27:1).

6. The Bronze Basin (Laver): Positioned between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, the basin was used by the priests for ceremonial washing, emphasizing the need for purity and cleansing before serving in the presence of the Lord. "You are to make a bronze basin for washing, with a bronze stand. Place it between the Tent of Meeting and the altar, and put water in it" (Exodus 30:18).

The Temple

When Solomon built the Temple in Jerusalem, the arrangement of the furnishings followed a similar pattern but on a grander scale. The Temple served as a permanent dwelling place for God's presence among His people.

1. The Holy of Holies: The Ark of the Covenant remained the central focus, housed within the innermost chamber of the Temple. The cherubim were larger and more elaborate, reflecting the Temple's grandeur.

2. The Holy Place: The Table of Showbread, the Golden Lampstand, and the Altar of Incense were arranged similarly to their placement in the Tabernacle, maintaining the continuity of worship practices.

3. The Courtyard: The Bronze Altar and the Basin were also present, serving the same functions as in the Tabernacle but accommodating the increased number of worshippers and sacrifices.

The arrangement of these holy furnishings underscores the importance of order, reverence, and obedience in worship. Each piece not only served a practical purpose but also held deep spiritual significance, pointing to the holiness of God and the need for His people to approach Him with humility and devotion.