The Court on the West refers to the western section of the courtyard surrounding the Tabernacle, as described in the Old Testament. The Tabernacle, also known as the Tent of Meeting, was a portable earthly dwelling place for the Divine Presence, constructed by the Israelites under the guidance of Moses during their exodus from Egypt. The detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and its surrounding court are found primarily in the book of Exodus.

Biblical Description

The Court of the Tabernacle was a rectangular enclosure that surrounded the Tabernacle itself. According to Exodus 27:9-19, the court was to be 100 cubits long and 50 cubits wide, with its length running from east to west. The western side of the court, therefore, was 50 cubits wide. The court was enclosed by curtains made of fine twisted linen, supported by pillars with bronze bases and silver hooks and bands.

Exodus 27:12-13 states: "The width of the courtyard on the west side shall be fifty cubits, with curtains, ten pillars, and ten bases. The width of the courtyard on the east side, toward the sunrise, shall be fifty cubits."

Significance in Israelite Worship

The Court on the West, like the rest of the courtyard, played a significant role in the religious life of the Israelites. It was within this sacred space that the Israelites would bring their offerings and sacrifices to God. The court served as a place of assembly for the people, where they could gather to worship and witness the priestly rituals.

The western side of the court, while not as prominently featured as the eastern entrance, was part of the overall design that emphasized order, symmetry, and holiness. The Tabernacle itself was positioned at the western end of the court, symbolizing the dwelling place of God among His people. This orientation may have held theological significance, as the westward position of the Tabernacle could represent the movement towards the presence of God, away from the east, which was often associated with exile and separation from God (Genesis 3:24).

Theological Implications

The Court on the West, as part of the Tabernacle complex, underscores the holiness and separateness of God. The entire structure of the Tabernacle and its court was designed to teach the Israelites about the nature of God and the proper way to approach Him. The court served as a boundary, marking the transition from the common to the sacred. It was a place where the Israelites could draw near to God, yet it also reminded them of the need for mediation and atonement, as only the priests could enter the Tabernacle itself.

The western court, along with the rest of the Tabernacle, foreshadows the coming of Christ, who would fulfill the law and the prophets. In the New Testament, the Tabernacle is seen as a type of Christ, who is the true dwelling place of God among men (John 1:14). The sacrificial system carried out in the court points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who provides the way for believers to enter into the presence of God.

Archaeological and Historical Context

While the exact location and dimensions of the Tabernacle and its court are not known today, the biblical description provides a detailed account of its construction and layout. Archaeological studies of ancient Near Eastern tent shrines and religious practices offer some insights into the possible appearance and function of the Tabernacle court. However, the Tabernacle remains a unique and divinely inspired structure, distinct from other ancient religious sites.

In summary, the Court on the West, as part of the Tabernacle's courtyard, played a crucial role in the worship and religious life of the Israelites. It served as a place of gathering, sacrifice, and instruction, pointing forward to the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.