Topical Encyclopedia In the context of ancient Israel, the Tabernacle served not only as a place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence but also as a repository for sacred treasures. The Tabernacle, also known as the Tent of Meeting, was a portable sanctuary that accompanied the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings and was central to their religious life.Biblical References and Description The concept of the Tabernacle as a treasure-house is rooted in its function as a storage place for items of great religious and cultural significance. The Book of Exodus provides detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the use of precious materials such as gold, silver, and bronze (Exodus 25-27). These materials were not only used in the construction of the Tabernacle itself but also in the creation of sacred objects housed within it. The Ark of the Covenant, perhaps the most significant treasure within the Tabernacle, was overlaid with pure gold and contained the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod that budded, and a jar of manna (Hebrews 9:4). The Ark was kept in the Most Holy Place, symbolizing God's covenant with Israel and His divine presence among His people. Offerings and Contributions The Tabernacle also served as a repository for the offerings and contributions of the Israelites. In Exodus 35:21-29, the people are described as bringing freewill offerings of gold, silver, bronze, and other materials for the construction and maintenance of the Tabernacle. These contributions were considered treasures dedicated to the service of God. The Levites, who were responsible for the care and transport of the Tabernacle, also managed the offerings and treasures. Numbers 18:21-24 outlines the provision for the Levites, who received a portion of the tithes and offerings as their inheritance, since they had no land of their own. Symbolism and Significance The use of the Tabernacle as a treasure-house underscores the value placed on the worship of God and the centrality of His presence in the life of Israel. The treasures within the Tabernacle were not merely material wealth but were imbued with spiritual significance, representing the covenant relationship between God and His people. The Tabernacle's role as a treasure-house also prefigures the later Temple in Jerusalem, which would serve a similar function on a grander scale. The treasures of the Temple, like those of the Tabernacle, were dedicated to the glory of God and the service of His people. Conclusion The Tabernacle, as a treasure-house, highlights the intersection of the material and the spiritual in the worship of ancient Israel. It served as a tangible reminder of God's provision, presence, and the sacred trust bestowed upon His people. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 31:54And Moses and Eleazar the priest took the gold of the captains of thousands and of hundreds, and brought it into the tabernacle of the congregation, for a memorial for the children of Israel before the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 6:19,24 Library The Apocalypse of Baruch. Resources What is the meaning of the Parable of the Great Banquet (Luke 14:15-24)? | GotQuestions.orgHow many parables are in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who is the desired of all nations (Haggai 2:7)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Treasure-Houses: Chambers Provided in the Temple for Various Kinds of offerings Treasure-Houses: Heathen Temples Used For Treasure-Houses: Priests and Levites in Charge of Treasure-Houses: Records Preserved In Treasure-Houses: Solomon's Temple Used For Treasure-Houses: Tabernacle Used For Treasure-Houses: Treasurers in Charge of Treasure-Houses: Under the Charge of the Levites Related Terms |