The Holy Furnishings and Articles of the Bible refer to the sacred objects used in the worship and service of God, particularly within the Tabernacle and the Temple. These items were crafted according to divine instructions and held significant religious and symbolic meaning for the Israelites.

The Tabernacle Furnishings

1. The Ark of the Covenant: The most sacred of all furnishings, the Ark was a chest made of acacia wood overlaid with gold, containing the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna (Hebrews 9:4). It was covered by the Mercy Seat, where God’s presence would appear. "There I will meet with you and speak with you from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim that are on the ark of the Testimony" (Exodus 25:22).

2. The Table of Showbread: Also made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, this table held the Bread of the Presence, which was set before the Lord continually (Exodus 25:23-30). It symbolized God's provision and fellowship with His people.

3. The Golden Lampstand (Menorah): Crafted from a single piece of pure gold, the lampstand had seven branches and was to be kept burning continually (Exodus 25:31-40). It represented the light of God’s presence and guidance.

4. The Altar of Incense: Made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold, this altar was placed before the veil in the Holy Place. Incense was burned on it every morning and evening as a symbol of the prayers of the people ascending to God (Exodus 30:1-10).

5. The Bronze Altar: Located in the courtyard, this altar was used for burnt offerings and sacrifices. It was made of acacia wood overlaid with bronze (Exodus 27:1-8).

6. The Bronze Basin (Laver): Used by the priests for ceremonial washing, the basin was made of bronze and placed between the Tent of Meeting and the altar (Exodus 30:17-21).

The Temple Furnishings

When Solomon built the Temple in Jerusalem, the furnishings were expanded and elaborated upon:

1. The Brazen Sea: A large basin for the priests' ablutions, supported by twelve oxen statues, symbolizing the tribes of Israel (1 Kings 7:23-26).

2. The Golden Altar of Incense: Similar to the one in the Tabernacle but larger, it continued to serve the same purpose (1 Kings 7:48).

3. The Ten Lampstands: Solomon’s Temple featured ten lampstands, five on the south and five on the north side of the Holy Place, enhancing the light within the Temple (1 Kings 7:49).

4. The Tables of Showbread: Ten tables were made for the Temple, indicating an increase in the scale of worship (2 Chronicles 4:8).

5. The Cherubim: Two large cherubim made of olive wood and overlaid with gold were placed in the Most Holy Place, overshadowing the Ark of the Covenant (1 Kings 6:23-28).

Symbolism and Significance

The Holy Furnishings and Articles were not merely functional but were imbued with deep spiritual significance. They represented God's covenant, His holiness, and His desire to dwell among His people. Each item pointed to aspects of worship, sacrifice, and the relationship between God and Israel. The meticulous care in their construction and use underscored the reverence due to God and the sacredness of His dwelling place.