Topical Encyclopedia Gold, a precious metal highly valued for its beauty and rarity, played a significant role in the construction and furnishing of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary used by the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The use of gold in the Tabernacle was not merely for aesthetic purposes but also symbolized the divine presence and holiness of God.Biblical Instructions and Craftsmanship The instructions for the use of gold in the Tabernacle were given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. In Exodus 25:8-9, God commands, "And they are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them. You must make it according to all that I show you—the pattern of the Tabernacle as well as the pattern of all its furnishings." The detailed instructions for the construction and furnishing of the Tabernacle are found in Exodus chapters 25 through 40. The skilled craftsmen, Bezalel and Oholiab, were filled with the Spirit of God to carry out the intricate work required for the Tabernacle (Exodus 31:1-6). They, along with other skilled artisans, used gold to create various vessels and utensils, ensuring that each item met the specifications given by God. The Ark of the Covenant The Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred object in the Tabernacle, was overlaid with pure gold both inside and out (Exodus 25:10-11). The mercy seat, which served as the lid of the Ark, was made of pure gold, and two cherubim of gold were hammered out at the ends of the mercy seat (Exodus 25:17-18). The Ark represented God's throne on earth and His covenant with Israel. The Table for the Bread of the Presence The table for the Bread of the Presence was constructed of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold (Exodus 25:23-24). It held the showbread, which was a continual offering before the Lord. The plates, dishes, pitchers, and bowls used in conjunction with the table were also made of pure gold (Exodus 25:29). The Lampstand The lampstand, or menorah, was made entirely of pure gold and crafted with intricate designs of almond blossoms, buds, and flowers (Exodus 25:31-36). It provided light within the Holy Place and symbolized the light of God's presence among His people. The Altar of Incense The altar of incense was another key item made of acacia wood and overlaid with gold (Exodus 30:1-3). It was placed before the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, and the fragrant incense burned upon it represented the prayers of the Israelites ascending to God. Other Utensils and Implements In addition to these major items, various other utensils and implements used in the Tabernacle service were made of gold. These included the snuffers and trays for the lampstand (Exodus 25:38), as well as the gold rings and poles used for carrying the Ark, table, and altar (Exodus 25:12-15, 27-28; 30:4-5). Symbolism and Significance The extensive use of gold in the Tabernacle underscored the sacredness and majesty of the worship space. Gold, being a metal that does not tarnish or corrode, symbolized the purity and eternal nature of God. The lavish use of gold also reflected the Israelites' devotion and obedience to God's commands, as they willingly contributed their gold for the construction of the Tabernacle (Exodus 35:21-22). In summary, the vessels and utensils made of gold for the Tabernacle were not only functional but also carried deep spiritual significance, pointing to the holiness, glory, and presence of God among His people. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 25:26,29,38,39And you shall make for it four rings of gold, and put the rings in the four corners that are on the four feet thereof. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 37:16 Library Refutation of Another Argument Adduced by the Marcionites, that ... The Great Slaughters and Sacrilege that were in Jerusalem. A Discourse Appendix xvii. The Ordinances and Law of the Sabbath as Laid Down ... Solomon's Temple Spiritualized The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Reaction against Egypt Period iii. The Dissolution of the Imperial State Church and the ... Resources What is the menorah? | GotQuestions.orgWhy does the Bible speak against braided hair? | GotQuestions.org What was the tabernacle of Moses? | GotQuestions.org Gold: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Gold used in the Arts in Ornamenting the Priests' Garments Gold used in the Arts: Apparel Gold used in the Arts: Beaten Work Gold used in the Arts: Bedsteads Made of Gold used in the Arts: Crowns Made of Gold used in the Arts: Into Ornaments Gold used in the Arts: Made Into Wire Threads and Worked Into Embroidered Tapestry Gold used in the Arts: Modeled Into Forms of Fruits Gold used in the Arts: Overlaying With Gold used in the Arts: Shields of Gold used in the Arts: The Lampstands Made of, for the Tabernacle Gold was Used for Mercy Seat and Cherubims Gold was Used for Overlaying Cherubims in Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying Floor of Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying the Ark Gold was Used for Overlaying the Tabernacle Gold was Used for Overlaying the Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying Throne of Solomon Gold was Used for Sacred Candlesticks Gold was Used for Sacred Utensils Gold: Abundance of, in Solomon's Reign Gold: Altar Lamps, and Other Articles Made of Gold: Jews Condemned for Multiplying Gold: Kings of Israel not to Multiply Gold: Liable to Canker and Rust Gold: Most Valuable when Pure and Fine Gold: Offerings of, for Tabernacle Gold: Offerings of, for Temple Gold: Priestly and Royal Garments Adorned With Gold: Refined and Tried by Fire Gold: Taken in War, Dedicated to God Gold: The Patriarchs Were Rich In Gold: Vessels and Utensils Made of, for the Tabernacle Related Terms |
    |