Exodus 40 explained: God Moves Into the Tent

Instructions for setting up (vv. 1-8)

Moses is told to raise the tent on the first day of the new year, almost a year after Israel left Egypt. The layout runs from the most sacred center outward: the chest holding the covenant tablets behind a curtain, then the table, lampstand and incense altar, then the large altar and washing basin in the open courtyard.

Setting apart tent and priests (vv. 9-16)

Rubbing special oil on the tent, its objects and Aaron's family marked them as belonging to God alone, set apart from ordinary use. Aaron and his sons were washed, dressed and anointed as priests, a role meant to pass down through their family line.

Moses builds it step by step (vv. 17-33)

Again and again the text notes that Moses did each thing just as God had commanded, stressing that he followed the plan exactly and in order. He also put each item to use right away: bread set out, lamps lit, incense burned, offerings made, hands and feet washed.

The cloud fills the tent (vv. 34-35)

The cloud that had rested on Mount Sinai now covers the tent, a sign that God has come to live among the people after the golden calf episode had put that in doubt. Christians later read this in light of John's Gospel, which describes Jesus coming to live among people with a word that echoes this tent.

Following the cloud (vv. 36-38)

The cloud became the camp's signal: when it lifted they moved on, and when it stayed they stayed. At night it glowed like fire where everyone could see it, and the book closes with Israel traveling under it.

Key verse: Exodus 40:34

Where Christians differ

Christians differ on how far to read the tent and its objects as detailed symbols of Jesus, with some finding meaning in every item and others seeing mainly a picture of God choosing to live among his people.

Something to think about

Does the idea of being close to something holy feel more like comfort or more like danger to you, and why?